Physician Assistants for Research, Scholarship and Education in Canada

About PARSEC

Physician Assistants for Research, Scholarship, Education in Canada (PARSEC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering excellence in the Canadian Physician Assistant profession through research, scholarship, and education

Pillars of PARSEC

  • Research

    At PARSEC, we believe in the power of research to advance the field of healthcare. Our commitment to supporting PA research that seeks to expand our understanding of the most effective practices in patient care, healthcare delivery, and the Physician Assistant's role within the healthcare team.

  • Scholarship

    Scholarship is at the heart of lifelong learning and professional development. PARSEC champions this by providing funding opportunities, resources, and platforms for Physician Assistants to pursue further education, present their findings, and contribute significantly to the body of knowledge in their profession.

  • Education

    PARSEC is dedicated to the continual advancement and excellence of PA education and continuous professional growth and development across Canada.

Join PARSEC

Become a part of a growing community of professionals dedicated to advancing the PA profession in Canada. Joining PARSEC as a member gives you exclusive access to our educational resources, networking events, research opportunities, and more. Your membership supports our mission and helps us continue to provide valuable resources and initiatives for Physician Assistants nationwide.

What is a Physician Assistant?


A Physician Assistant (PA) is a highly trained healthcare professional who works in collaboration with physicians and other healthcare providers to deliver a broad range of medical services. As integral members of the healthcare team, PAs are involved in all aspects of patient care, including diagnosing illnesses, developing and managing treatment plans, prescribing medications, and conducting procedures.

The role of a Physician Assistant encompasses a unique blend of medical knowledge, clinical skills, and compassion. PAs practice in a variety of specialty areas and settings—from family medicine to emergency care, and from rural clinics to urban hospitals—adapting to meet the needs of their patients and the communities they serve.

In Canada, PAs are pivotal in enhancing healthcare accessibility and efficiency, particularly in underserved areas. They bridge gaps in the healthcare system, ensuring that patients receive timely and high-quality care. As the healthcare landscape evolves, the role of Physician Assistants continues to expand, making their contribution more vital than ever.

Educated through rigorous, medical-model academic programs, PAs are committed to lifelong learning and professional development. This ensures that they remain at the forefront of medical innovation and best practices, ready to meet the challenges of a dynamic healthcare environment.

Through our work at PARSEC, we are dedicated to supporting and advancing the PA profession in Canada. We believe in empowering Physician Assistants with opportunities for research, scholarship, and education, thereby contributing to the overall improvement of healthcare quality and patient outcomes.