The Fate of Entrustable Professional Activities After Graduation: A Survey Study Among Graduated Physician Assistants

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Health Professions Education
• Physician Assistant Studies

Background:

• Entrustable professional activities (EPAs) are integral to medical training.
• The post-graduation utility of EPAs remains underexplored in professional development.
• Dutch Master Physician Assistant (PA) programs have utilized EPAs since 2010.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role and application of EPAs among Dutch PA alumni.
• To determine if EPAs are used for ongoing entrustment decisions post-graduation.
• To assess EPA utility in transitioning between work settings.

Main Methods:

• A voluntary, anonymous online survey was distributed to all registered Dutch PAs (n=1441) in September 2020.
• Survey questions focused on the use and perceived usefulness of EPAs after graduation.
• Data collection included views on continuous entrustment and competence documentation.

Main Results:

• A response rate of 29% (421 PAs) provided insights into post-graduation EPA significance.
• 60% of respondents acquired new competencies and skills post-graduation.
• Among PAs trained in EPA-based programs (n=120), 96% found the EPA structure suitable for maintaining and renewing entrustment.
• PAs reported using the EPA framework for formal qualifications and entrustment decisions.

Conclusions:

• EPAs demonstrate significant ongoing relevance for PAs beyond initial training.
• EPA-trained PAs strongly advocate for the continuous application of the EPA framework.
• The EPA model supports lifelong learning and entrustment decisions in PA practice.