Healthcare Myths
True or False? An apple a day keeps the doctor away.
False. Eating a single apple a day will not prevent medical visits or cure illnesses. However, it does symbolize healthy habits!
What percentage of physicians think PAs improve healthcare access?
86%
True or False? Diarrhea with antibiotics means you are allergic.
False. Diarrhea is a common side effect caused by changes to gut bacteria, stomach irritation, or mild overgrowth of other organisms rather than an immune system allergy.
How many hours of clinical rotations do PA students complete before graduating?
Roughly 2000
True or False: Antibiotics are used for viral illness?
False. Taking antibiotics for a virus like a cold or the flu does not cure the illness, make you feel better, or stop germs from spreading.
True or false? If a patient is allergic to a penicillin they should not be prescribed cephalosporins.
False. True IgE anaphylaxis is rare. ~1–2% cross-react with cephalosporins.
How many states have adopted the Physician associate title?
6! ME, NH, OR, Iowa, Delaware, Alaska.
What does the “ABCDE” acronym stand for when checking skin for melanoma?
Asymmetry, border, color, diameter, and evolving. Key warning signs to look for when checking skin moles for potential melanoma.
What is the most popular PA specialty?
27.8% surgical subspecialties
In Maine last year, the legal title of the profession was changed from “physician assistant” to “___”? What are other states that have also implemented this title change?
physician associate
- Alaska, Delaware, Iowa, Maine, New Hampshire, and Oregon
How many patient encounters do Physician Associates complete per week?
10.8 million