Day in the Life of a Physician Assistant in Remote Industry
November 6, 2025 from 11:00am MDT to 11:50am MDT
With a renewed emphasis on remote industry to support the Canadian economy, there will be increasing opportunities for physician assistants in remote industry. These remote locations present a challenge for PAs as they require unique skillsets. Although intimidating to many PAs, systems, structures, and teams can provide strong clinical support and enable delivery of exceptional care. Telemedicine support is critical to allow for high levels of care and providing reassurance to the remote health care team. Emergency medicine background is an asset in this environment but multidisciplinary care teams can assist with maintaining the standard of care. As industry provides employment opportunities for Indigenous peoples on whose land they operate, delivery of culturally sensitive and safe care is a priority. Remuneration, patient volumes, and work-life balance can make working in remote industry a very attractive and rewarding option for many.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to:
- Describe the potential locations and opportunities for industrial and mining work in Canada
- Identify and explain the unique challenges of working in remote industry
- Demonstrate an understanding of standardized and effective systems of care that enhance health services in remote locations
- Outline the qualifications and certifications required for Physician Assistants (PAs) practicing in remote settings
- Explain the role of health surveillance in Canadian industry
- Discuss the importance of providing culturally sensitive care in remote industry contexts
- Summarize the key duties and responsibilities of PAs working in remote industry
- Evaluate the benefits and challenges of PA practice in remote industry
Speakers / Panelists
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Day in the Life of a Physician Assistant in Remote Industry
November 6, 2025 from 11:00am MDT to 11:50am MDT
Nicholas Withers
CD, MD, CCFP(EM), FCFP
Nicholas Withers
Nicholas Withers CD, MD, CCFP(EM), FCFP
Dr. Nick Withers is a Canadian-certified emergency medicine physician with more than twenty years’ experience in a myriad of emergency departments across Canada, varying from rural to urban. Nick is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of British Columbia and teaches and practices on Vancouver Island. He is Corporate Medical Director for 24/7 Occupational & Emergency Medicine Solutions, delivering innovation in medical services for remote mining operations across Canada. He is the Medical Director at a number of remote mining sites ranging from the Northwest Territories to British Columbia and into Ontario and Quebec. His company assisted with the introduction of physician assistants in British Columbia at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital in Greater Victoria.
His expertise in delivery of health care in remote and austere locations developed early in his career as a Medical Officer. A decorated 22-year veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, Dr. Withers enjoyed a distinguished military career which brought him from coast to coast and worldwide. Highlights include serving as the Commanding Officer of the Health Services Unit for the Canadian Armed Forces deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan in 2011, as well as serving as the Senior Medical Authority with the Canadian Special Forces.
Dr. Withers has been recognized for his tireless advocacy for physician assistants and was named to the 2025 Honour Roll by the Canadian Association of Physician Assistants. When not in the office, he can be found spending time with his treasured family or on the golf course or ice hockey rink.