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Physician Assistants
What do Physician Assistants do in the Military?
Where do Physician Assistants work?
Physician assistants work in hospitals and clinics on land and aboard ships.
How much do they make?
Median Military Salary
This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
$137,957
Military Salary Range
This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
$38,512 - $358,842
How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary
Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.
- Set based on rank and years of service.
- Paid every month.
Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.
- Tax-free payments.
- Varies by location and family status.
Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.
- Based on specialized roles.
- Varies by position and duty.
What training do Physician Assistants gain in the Military?
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for physician assistants primarily consists of classroom instruction, including practice in providing patient healthcare, and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Physician assistants often have the opportunity to teach, research, and learn at various health education programs. Like other officers working in healthcare, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, orientation to military structure, healthcare and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include:
- Fundamental medical care procedures
- Principles of behavioral and dental science
- Healthcare administration techniques
Military Training for Enlisted Service members
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.
What skills help Physician Assistants succeed?
- Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely
- Desire to help others
- Patience with others, especially those in pain or stress
- Self-confidence and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations