Continuing coverage: Incoming physician assistant students at UTMB received their white coats in a ceremony that welcomed them into their new program of professional study. During the Aug. 2 rite of passage, 83 members of the class of 2015 donned their white coats for the first time. PAs are invaluable members of the health care team who conduct medical histories and physical examinations, order and interpret diagnostic tests, diagnose and treat health conditions, perform procedures and provide patient education and counseling services. All 50 states and the District of Columbia allow PAs to practice and prescribe medications.