Physician assistants are expected to behave both legally and morally. They should understand the laws governing their practice and the ethical responsibilities of being a health care professional. Legal requirements and ethical expectations will not always be in agreement.  Generally, the law defines minimum standards of acceptable behavior, and ethical principles lay out the highest moral standards of behavior.

When faced with an ethical dilemma, PAs may find guidance in the Guidelines for Ethical Conduct for the Physician Assistant Profession. They also may wish to seek guidance elsewhere − from a supervising physician, a hospital ethics committee, an ethicist, trusted colleagues, or other AAPA policies. PAs should seek legal counsel when they are concerned about the potential legal consequences of their decisions. 

Guidelines for Ethical Conduct for the Physician Assistant Profession