Physician assistant education in India.

The first PA program in India was established in 1992 with a focus on expanding cardiovascular surgery. Since then, eight additional programs have developed (in total seven baccalaureate and two master's level programs). Approximately 850 graduates are distributed throughout southern India with concentrations near their home universities. While all PAs are trained as generalists, most work in hospitals in specialized roles such as surgery. With service delivery a looming issue in India, there is an increased interest in the PA profession, and existing PA programs are beginning to work together to advance the field.