Exploring opportunities beyond clinical practice: The need for PA educators

Opportunities outside patient care are expanding for physician associates/assistants (PAs). Exploring new roles beyond clinical practice has the potential for improved career fulfillment as clinicians experience increasing levels of burnout and declining satisfaction with patient care. The decision to shift to a nonclinical role may be overwhelming without knowing what positions PAs are qualified to consider. PAs are increasingly found in the fields of healthcare consulting (as medical science liaisons), medical writing, healthcare insurance, research, and academia. With the rapid growth in PA programs, the need for educators is critical and this transition creates an interesting dynamic in which a proficient clinician becomes a novice educator. This article delves into these expectations and provides guidance on making the transition.