J Korean Acad Nurs Adm.  2022 Mar;28(2):67-77. 10.11111/jkana.2022.28.2.67.

Working Difficulties Experienced by Physician Assistants

• Kim KH
• Ju HO
• Park SY

• KMID: 2536020
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.11111/jkana.2022.28.2.67

Abstract

Purpose
The aim of this study is to identify and understand the meaning and essence of the working difficulties experienced by physician assistants.
Methods
This qualitative study used focus group interviews and conventional content analysis. Participants included physician assistants with over 1 year of experience working in general hospitals. Fifteen people formed four focus groups with three to four people in each group.
Results
Six categories of difficulties faced by physician assistants were derived from the results. These were: the "lack of an education system", "unclear professional duties", "shortage of substitute workforce", "conflict with the nursing department", "dual management structure", and "unstable roles and uncertain futures". Participants experienced difficulties in their jobs because the systematic educational system was inadequate, and due to there was uncertainty regarding the scope and extent of their work. As professional nursing staff, they experienced hindrances in their development and increased anxiety owing to their uncertain futures.
Conclusion
To overcome the difficulties faced by physician assistants in their work, it is necessary to legally recognize and clarify their roles as well as to establish a systematic education system.

Keyword

Physician assistants; Nurses; Focus groups; Qualitative study