A physicians assistant can conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, and prescribe medications, but will always do so under the supervision of a physician.
Theirs is a more streamlined educational program than a doctor’s. They usually have a master’s degree in physician assistant studies, which typically takes up to three years in grad school.
A doctor, on the other hand, spends up to 15 years in training — this includes four years of medical school followed by several years of residency.