Understanding PA Supervision and Operations: Frequently Asked Questions 

Physician Assistants (PAs) work closely with supervising physicians to provide patient care. However, questions often arise about the supervisory requirements and operational aspects of PAs in New York State. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers: 

1. Do PAs Have a Supervising or Collaborating Physician in New York State? 

• According to current state practice laws, PAs in New York are required to have a supervising physician. 

2. Do PAs Require Supervision in New York State (NYS)? 

• PAs must indeed be supervised by a licensed physician, either a Medical Doctor (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathy (DO). While supervision must be continuous, it does not necessitate the physical presence of the supervising physician at the site where services are rendered. Moreover, there is no requirement for the supervising physician to countersign notes or orders, except when deemed necessary by the supervising physician. [Reference: N.Y. EDUC. LAW § 6542(2)] 

3. How Many PAs Can a Physician Supervise? 

• The number of PAs a physician can supervise varies based on the healthcare setting: 

• Outpatient: Up to 4 PAs. 
• Inpatient: Up to 6 PAs. 
• Hospital: Up to 6 PAs. [Reference: Education Law Article 131-B and N.Y. EDUC. LAW § 6542 (3)-(5)] 

4. Does a PA Need to Have a Signed Supervising Physician (SP) Agreement?