History of PAs
What was the primary reason for the creation of the PA profession?
To improve and expand healthcare due to a shortage of primary care physicians.
Yes, with some differences.
Both carry out many of the same functions, however, PAs work under supervision of physicians and/or surgeons.
Do you need a degree before applying to PA school?
Yes, you need a minimum of a Bachelor's degree.
How long on average is PA school?
2 years
Does it take longer for PA school or medical school?
Medical school (4 years) vs. PA school (2 years)
When was the first class of PAs put together?
1965
Are PAs allowed to perform surgeries?
Yes, in limited fashion.
PAs can assist in surgeries, depending on their specialty and work environment.
What are some common class prerequisites for applying to PA school?
General Chemistry
Organic chemistry
Biochemistry
General biology w/ lab
Microbiology w/ lab
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Human genetics
Medical terminology
What are some common classes you will take in PA school?
Clinical Pathophysiology
Biomedical Principles
Medical Imaging
Are there professional organizations for PAs to join?
Yes, some examples include:
The American Academy of Physician Assistant (AAPA)
Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA)
Florida Academy of PAs (FAPA)
When did the PA profession first gain federal acceptance and backing?
1970s
Are PAs expected to counsel patients, families, and take part in preventive care?
Yes
What is a competitive GPA for PA school?
GPAs >/= 3.4 are considered competitive.
What are some common rotations PA students will experience?
Primary Care
Emergency Medicine
Surgery
Clinical Electives (sub-specialities)
Is the PA profession expected to grow or decline in the next decade?
Grow, by about 31%.
What was the first PA curriculum based off of?
Knowledge of the fast-track training of doctors during World War II.
What are some of the most common fields in which PAs work?
Psychiatry
Pediatrics
Dermatology
Surgery
What exams/applications are required prior to applying PA school?
Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
CASPA application: Centralized application service for Physician Assistant, which also includes supplemental applications and interviews.
What exam will you need to take prior to being licensed as a PA?
PANCE: Physician Assistance National Certifying Exam (6 hours)
What is the most common fields for PAs to go into?
Family Medicine
General Practice/Primary Care
Dr. Eugene A. Stead Jr.
What are some of the specific daily functions of PAs?
Take patient medical histories
Perform physical exams
Order and interpret labs, tests, and imaging
What experiences are required prior to applying to PA school?
Healthcare Experience (HCE): Paid/unpaid work in a health/health-related field; not directly responsible for a patients' care.
Direct Patient Care Experience (PCE): Direct responsibility to patient (i.e. drawing blood, bathing patients, etc.)
What exam will you need to take to re-certify as a PA? (Hint: it's very similar to the initial certifying exam)
PANRE- Physician Assistance National Recertification Exam (4 hours)
Over the next decade, approximately how many job openings will there be for PAs?
12,200