Physician Assistant Science
GDPT 887 Clinical Synthesis 3 2 credits This course is designed to facilitate in the physical therapy student the synthesis of clinical data with the research evidence supporting the management of selected patient(s). Within the structure of the course, the student is required to analyze the literature, facilitate a discussion of these findings in a group setting with colleagues, and critique and reflect upon their management of patient(s). The course incorporates self-assessment, group activities, and practice examinations as part of exam preparation for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). GDPT 899 Independent Study (Elective) 1-3 credits This course enables students to enrich their knowledge and competency in an advanced area of interest related to PT practice. The student designs the objectives of the learning experience(s) with guidance from the Independent Study Course Coordinator and a faculty member (content advisor) by means of a learning contract. Only the student’s motivation and the availability of the selected experience may limit the type of independent study experience. The independent study focuses on enrichment; a new and varied advanced learning opportunity. Independent study may not be used to remediate existing didactic or clinical deficiencies (i.e., incompletes or below mastery standing). Through this learning experience, the student will acquire and demonstrate a new or enhanced body of knowledge.
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Physician Assistant Science Chairperson: Kimberly Cavanagh, DHSc, MPAS, PA-C
INTRODUCTION Physician assistants (PAs) are medical providers who are nationally certified and state licensed to practice medicine as a member of a team with other healthcare professionals. Their specific tasks vary widely due to differences among state laws and hospital policies. Generally, PAs are qualified to obtain patient histories, perform comprehensive physical examinations, order and interpret diagnostic laboratory tests, prepare a diagnosis, implement a treatment plan for common illnesses, deliver patient education and counseling, perform certain surgical procedures, and provide emergency care. PAs may assist in surgery and deliver pre-operative and postoperative care. PAs may deliver patient care in any setting in which the physician works. The Physician Assistant Department offers a Master of Physician Assistant Science degree available through either a five-year undergraduate admission program or a post baccalaureate curriculum. The curriculum is predominantly clinical during the final year of the program. Regional clinical faculty preceptors, in conjunction with various health care institutions, introduce the students to professional PA training. Clinical sites are offered primarily in northwestern Pennsylvania, Ohio, and western New York, as well as some locations farther afield. Students are responsible for their own housing and transportation to and from clinical sites. The PA program curriculum of the Gannon University Physician Assistant Program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA). The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) has granted AccreditationContinued status to the Gannon University Physician Assistant Program sponsored by Gannon University. AccreditationContinued is an accreditation status granted when a currently accredited program is in compliance with the ARC-PA Standards. Accreditation remains in effect until the program closes or withdraws from the accreditation process or until accreditation is withdrawn for failure to comply with the Standards. The approximate date for the next validation review of the program by the ARC-PA will be March 2027. The review date is contingent upon continued compliance with the Accreditation Standards and ARC-PA policy.
