(A3.12g) Our outcomes are guided by the Competencies for the Physician Assistant Profession document published by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. The purpose of that document is to communicate to the PA profession and to the public a set of competencies that all physician assistants, regardless of specialty or setting, are expected to acquire and maintain throughout their careers. The competencies provide a road map for the individual PA, the physician-PA team and PA-related professional organizations.
Patient-Centered Practice Knowledge:
1. Gather pertinent information, perform appropriate physical examinations, and interpret diagnostic testing for differential diagnosis.
2. Provide care to diverse patient populations across the lifespan using evidence-based decision-making.
Society and Population Health:
3. Recognize cultural, and socioeconomic differences and social determinants of health affecting individuals and communities being served.
4. Provide resources and engage members of healthcare teams to support the needs of individuals and communities being served.
Health Literacy and Communication:
5. Effectively and professionally communicate with individuals, communities, and members of the healthcare community.
Interprofessional Collaborative Practice and Leadership:
6. Engage other healthcare professionals as needed to optimize the care of individuals and populations.
Professional and Legal Aspects of Health Care:
7. Demonstrate respect for the dignity and privacy of patients while providing a standard of care.
8. Exhibit behaviors that are ethical, compassionate, patient-centered, maximize patient safety, critically recognize and prevent medical errors, and acknowledge their own limitations, and mistakes.
Healthcare Finance and Systems:
9. Recognize the business of healthcare and the collaborative relationship between a physician assistant and a supervising physician.
