Which statement best describes PA supervision requirements in New York?

• A. A physician must supervise a PA, with continuous supervision; onsite presence is not always required.
• B. PAs can practice without supervision.
• C. Supervision is only required for surgical procedures.
• D. A nurse practitioner is required to supervise.

Answer: (A)

In New York, a physician must supervise a physician assistant, and that supervision is ongoing and authoritative. The supervising physician is responsible for the PA’s acts, defines the scope of practice, and must be available for direction and consultation—often by phone or electronic means—so the PA can see patients and perform procedures within that defined framework. Importantly, the supervisor does not have to be physically present on the same premises at all times, but their involvement is continuous and essential for patient safety and accountability. This setup ensures PAs can work independently in many clinical tasks while still operating under a physician’s guidance. The other statements would imply no supervision, supervision only for certain procedures, or supervision by a non-physician, which does not align with New York’s requirements.