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Curriculum essentials of an entry-level PA doctoral degree
Gerald Kayingo1, Karen L Gordes, Hyun-Jin Jun
1In the Physician Assistant Leadership and Learning Academy at the University of Maryland Baltimore in Baltimore, Md., Gerald Kayingo is assistant dean, executive director, and a professor; Karen L. Gordes is chief learning officer and an associate professor; and Hyun-Jin Jun is an assistant professor of health professions education. Shani Fleming is an associate professor in the University of Maryland Baltimore/Anne Arundel Community College Collaborative Physician Assistant Program. Also at the Physician Assistant Leadership and Learning Academy at the University of Maryland Baltimore, Violet Kulo is an associate professor of health professions education; and James F. Cawley is a scholar-in-residence and visiting professor. The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
Transitioning physician assistant (PA) doctoral education requires significant curriculum changes and new competencies. Most stakeholders favor a bridge program and the Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) degree title.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Health Professions Education
Background:
- The discussion around physician assistant (PA) doctoral education is increasing.
- Investigating curriculum essentials and competencies for PA doctoral programs is becoming relevant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To capture stakeholders' views on essential curricular elements for PA doctoral education.
- To inform the development of future PA doctoral programs.
Main Methods:
- A national mixed-methods study was conducted.
- The study included a survey and semistructured interviews with stakeholders.
Main Results:
- 75% of respondents believe transitioning to a terminal PA doctoral degree would necessitate new content.
- Half of respondents indicated significant curriculum changes, enhanced educational rigor, and altered graduate competencies.
- A bridge program model and the Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) degree were favored by the majority.
Conclusions:
- Respondents agreed that an entry-level PA doctoral degree would impact various curriculum aspects.
- Further debate on curriculum essentials and competencies is warranted as the prospect of an entry-level PA doctoral degree gains attention.
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