Overview
In this Q&A, Major Wendy Strain joined PARSEC to discuss the recruitment pathway to becoming a Physician Assistant in the military. The conversation focused on what the recruitment process looks like, how military service integrates with personal and family life, and what supports are in place for PAs who choose this unique career path.
Wendy provided practical guidance for:
Civilian PAs and new graduates interested in joining the CAF
Navigating the application process while still in PA school
Understanding posting flexibility and whether location requests can be accommodated
Managing the role while raising a family
What to expect in terms of benefits, pension, CME funding, and career support
The representation of women in PA roles across the CAF
Ongoing CME requirements and opportunities in military practice
Whether you're considering full-time service or part-time through the Reserves, this session offered a grounded look at the lifestyle, responsibilities, and long-term benefits of being a PA in uniform.
Earning CPD Credits
This live event has passed, and the Section 1 CPD credit window has now closed.
You may still watch the replay and log 1.0 hours under Section 2 CPD credits. Please note that no certificate will be issued for Section 2 credits.
Military Physician Assistant: Career Overview
In the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), Physician Assistants serve as frontline healthcare providers, extending the care of supervising physicians in diverse and often remote environments. They play a pivotal role in delivering both primary and emergency care to CAF members, working across Canada and abroad-in clinics, onboard ships, submarines, or in isolated deployments.
A key feature of military PA roles is clinical independence, especially in remote postings where direct physician access may be limited. This independence is paired with unique travel opportunities and exposure to rare environments, such as the Northwest Passage. PAs may be stationed on bases or serve in the field, and their responsibilities also include environmental and occupational health.
Training & Entry Paths
All military PAs complete Basic Military Officer Qualification (12 weeks) and additional military medicine training in Borden, Ontario.
Entry options include:
direct entry (for certified PAs) or
paid education, where successful applicants complete a civilian university program while being salaried by the CAF.
Ongoing training opportunities in aviation and dive medicine are available.
Full-time and Reserve Options
Regular Force PAs serve full-time and may be posted across Canada.
Reserve Force PAs serve part-time locally, maintaining civilian employment while contributing to military operations on a flexible basis. Both paths include competitive pay, benefits, and career progression opportunities.
For more information or to apply, candidates are encouraged to contact a Health Services recruiter or visit the CAF recruiting website.
Claim CPD Credits
Visit our CPD Guide for clear, step-by-step support.
Practicing PAs must log CPD activities according to PACCC’s Maintenance of Certification (MOC) standards. This guide outlines how to determine Section 1 vs. Section 2 credits, complete required forms, and meet submission deadlines.
Follow the steps to ensure your activities are eligible and accurately tracked for audit purposes.