Exploring Potential Challenges in Implementing a Standardized Curriculum for the Physician Associate Program in...

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Education
• Medical Training Standards
• Allied Health Professions

Background:

• The National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professionals Act of 2021 mandates a national standardized curriculum for physician associate (PA) programs in India.
• This initiative aims to standardize PA education across the country.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential challenges in implementing a national-level standardized curriculum for physician associate (PA) programs in India.
• To identify key areas of concern and gather stakeholder input for successful curriculum rollout.

Main Methods:

• A multistage process initiated in August 2023, involving email distribution of a draft curriculum for review.
• Virtual meetings and focus group discussions (FGDs) with key stakeholders, including university faculty, were conducted.
• Discussions took place at the International Association of Physician Associate Educators and Indian Association of Physician Assistants annual conference.

Main Results:

• Four major themes emerged: faculty development, faculty recruitment, alignment with the National Educational Policy, and the necessity of master's degree programs for PAs.
• Identified challenges include a shortage of qualified faculty, uncompetitive salaries for academic positions, and low enrollment in master's programs.
• Recommendations include increasing financial compensation for teaching PAs, developing more PA educators, and implementing pedagogical training.

Conclusions:

• Implementing a standardized PA curriculum in India faces significant hurdles, particularly in faculty recruitment and retention.
• Broader stakeholder engagement is vital for the successful implementation of the curriculum.
• Addressing these challenges is essential to meet India's evolving healthcare needs.