Can physician assistants work internationally for NGOs or volunteering as a practitioner?
Asked by B Wagon
I'm currently a physician assistant student and I would really like to work internationally giving aid to third world nations. I'm concerned though, that PAs really can't do anything legally internationally because it is such a US specific career. I know you can work in England and Australia now, but I really want to work in underserved parts of the world, please let me know if you know if its possible to work internationally as a PA.

Best Answer:
Yes, many of the journals have articles about PAs working on the medical missions to various countries. Try Doctors without Borders etc and ask at your school & look at the PA journals. You work under the auspices of the agency not the country so you do not have to be "legal" in that country per se. However, you will need to get some experience first--that is mandatory because you are working without xrays & labs much of the time & without supervision. You REALLY have to know your stuff. I would not even consider this without 5 years ER or other failry intense experience.
ER PA
Answered by Diane A

Be an affiliate in such organizations that have medical outreach programs overseas. Inquire about their missions and policies, though. I believe, this works for the various healthcare provider volunteers even for students. Such organizations, usually are headed by the many ethnic minorities here in the US... try to reach them. Some countries do not employ physician assistants but rather resident doctors, medical assistant, secretaries, medical interns, etc. Your career might be something in between those careers. So, if you're truly serious about this make some research. Good luck!
Answered by Paul B