How are American trained PAs able to practice medicine in the United Kingdom?
American PAs are able to practice in the UK as a result of a clause within the British General Medical Council’s guidance on Good Medical Practice. Delegation is discussed within paragraph 54 as follows: Delegation involves asking a colleague to provide treatment or care on your behalf. Although you will not be accountable for the decisions and actions of those to whom you delegate, you will still be responsible for the overall management of the patient, and accountable for your decision to delegate. When you delegate care or treatment you must be satisfied that the person to whom you delegate has the qualifications, experience, knowledge and skills to provide the care or treatment involved. You must always pass on enough information about the patient and the treatment they need. For further information, see the General Medical Council’s website and statement on Good Medical practice.
