Mission Statement
Bethel University’s mission is to create opportunities for members of the learning community to develop to their highest potential as whole persons-intellectually, spiritually, socially and physically- in a Christian environment. The mission of the College of Health Sciences is to create opportunities for members of the learning community to become health care professionals who exemplify
Christian values while providing service to the community through the healing arts. The Physician Assistant Program’s mission is to create opportunities for the members of the learning community interested in healthcare to ultimately graduate as exceptional and compassionate healthcare
professionals who practice medicine within an ethical framework grounded in Christian principles. Accreditation Status and Implications of Accreditation
Bethel University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS) to award associate, baccalaureate, and master’s degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for
questions about the accreditation of Bethel University. PA Program Accreditation Status
The ARC-PA has granted Continued Accreditation to the Physician Assistant Program sponsored by Bethel University. Continued accreditation is an accreditation status granted when a currently accredited program is in compliance with the ARC-PA Standards. Continued Accreditation remains in effect until the program closes or withdraws from the accreditation process or until accreditation is withdrawn for failure to comply with the Standards. The date for the next comprehensive review of the program by the ARC-PA will be March 2014. Graduation from an accredited PA program is the only way to be eligible to sit for the National Certifying Exam (PANCE). For more information regarding the implications of accreditation, please visit: www.arc-pa.org or contact ARC-PA at 12000 Findley Road, Suite 150, Johns Creek, GA 30097, (770) 476-1224.
Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies M.S.P.A.S. Degree
The Bethel University Physician Assistant Program will confer a Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies upon completion of the 27 month educational program. Our program consists of 12 months of didactic education and 15 months of clinical experiences.
PANCE
PANCE pass rate: Our most recent graduating cohort, class of 2013 has completed their PANCE exam. We are pleased to announce that they have achieved a 91% first time PANCE pass rate (34 students). The previous class of 2012 graduated with a first time pass rate of 100% and our inaugural class of 2011 graduated with a first time pass rate of 94%.
Application Procedure
You must complete a CASPA application, along with a supplemental application and fee, to the PA program. CASPA application forms may be requested from www.caspaonline.org (Central Application Service for Physician Assistants) or by calling CASPA at (617) 612-2080.
The supplemental application form is available online at:
http://www.bethelu.edu/academics/colleges_and_schools/college_of_health_sciences/mspas2/acad/appac c. Selected applicants will be interviewed by the admission committee. Following the interview
candidates are evaluated by the admission committee to assess their acceptability to the program. Admitted candidates ordinarily have two weeks to respond to the offer of acceptance. A non-refundable fee of $1000.00 will secure a spot in the upcoming class. This is applied to the first semester tuition.
Admission Information
We will begin the interview process as soon as verified applications are received from CASPA. Interviews will be offered to qualified applicants and student positions will be offered on a rolling admissions basis. Early application is strongly encouraged. Selection for a place in our PA program is very competitive.
Statistically, the ideal applicant has presented with a 3.0 overall GPA, 300/4.0 GRE scores, completed 300+ hours of healthcare experience, 100 shadowing hours, and 80 science hours before applying to the program. These applicants have gone on to be very successful PA students. Therefore, we encourage all applicants to have scores similar to the ones mentioned above. Applicants who have scores that deviate significantly from the average will be considered on a case by case basis.
Application Requirements
To apply you should have the following:
Verified CASPA application.
Completed supplemental application and fee received.
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
Official transcripts from all universities attended. Original transcripts need to go to CASPA and to our program for review.
Three letters of recommendation: Two (2) of your letters of recommendation must be from a PA, MD, DO, or FNP. One (1) letter can be from a university professor or advisor. We do not accept letters of recommendation from family members.
Non-native speakers of English: Achieved TOEFL IBT (internet based testing) scores of at least 87 for non-native speakers of English with the minimum section requirements of: Reading: 21, Speaking: 26, listening: 20, and Writing: 20.
Completion of our nine prerequisite courses.
Completion of GRE and results received by Program.
Completion of a minimum of 40hrs shadowing with a PA-C Pre-requisite course work consists of the following classes:
Two Semesters – General Biology (or equivalent)
Two Semesters – General Chemistry (or equivalent)
Two Semesters – Human A & P
One Semester – Microbiology or Bacteriology
One Semester – Psychology
One Semester – Genetics
Applicants will be allowed to CLEP a maximum of two pre-requisites if needed. Please contact the
General Information
Students may apply before the completion of some pre-requisite courses but should inform the university as to when and where the needed course(s) will be taken. Such candidates may gain conditional acceptance.
No prerequisites older than 5 years will be accepted unless you have been employed full time in the health care field since completion of those prerequisites.
Bethel University PA Program does not offer advanced placement. There is no credit for experiential learning.
No Physician Assistant credits from another institution may be transferred into the didactic or clinical years. BUPAP students must complete the entire program at Bethel University.
An applicant who possesses a degree from an accredited institution outside of the US may also be considered for admission. These students must have their transcript verified and translated by an approved organization (such as World Education Service) and should meet all other requirements. Acceptance into the Bethel University PA Program is provisional pending:
1. Completion of all application requirements.
2. Completion of all outstanding prerequisite coursework. 3. Attended a personal interview. (By invitation only)
4. Receipt of acceptance letter and non-refundable acceptance deposit.
5. Proof of health insurance. All students are required to maintain health insurance for the duration of the program.
6. Receipt of negative drug screen and a background check indicating no prior convictions that would result in failure to obtain medical licensure.
7. Completion of physical examination and immunizations prior to matriculation.
8. No history of dismissal from another PA, medical, or nursing program for academic or disciplinary reasons.
Averages of Incoming Class
The following is an overview of averages for the class that began in January, 2014. This information may be used by applicants to help assess their application. Please note that these are AVERAGES. We evaluate each application on its own merit. Admission is based on academic achievement, high quality performance in science and/or health-care related courses, demonstrated motivation and professional potential, and strong interpersonal skills. Admission committee decisions are final. Cumulative GPA – 3.18
Healthcare Experience – 4005 hours Shadowing Hours – approximately 287 Science Hours – 81
Average Age – 27 GRE Scores – 297/3.7
Recommended Courses Consist of the Following Classes Biochemistry
Organic Chemistry Cell Biology Pharmacology Immunology
Introductory Statistics or Critical Thinking Additional Selection Factors
The following applicants have a slight advantage: Applicants having shadowed a physician assistant over 40+ hours and applicants with significant healthcare experience. Healthcare and/or shadowing experience provides students with an awareness of the intricacies of the health care delivery system as it exists today and provides information that enables them to realistically commit themselves to a profession of service that helps the sick and injured. (These additional selection factors assist in evaluating an applicant for admission and do not guarantee admission to the PA Program.) Deadline
CASPA will begin accepting applications in April, 2014 and will continue to accept applications until September 1, 2014. You must have all required forms and documentation to the
Bethel University Physician Assistant Program by October 1, 2014. If received after October 1, your application may not be reviewed and you may miss being considered for the entering class.
PLEASE APPLY EARLY.
Dates to Remember
April 15 – start applying to CASPA
September 1 – deadline to apply to CASPA
October 1 – deadline to have all materials to Program (example: original transcripts, supplemental application, etc.)
May – October interviews will be conducted
January – classes begin
Tuition, Fees, and Expenses
Tuition and fees are determined on a yearly basis by the University’s Board of Trustees. The University reserves the right to change tuition and fees at any time without prior notice. Tuition
Tuition is based on full-time studies and covers our 27 month program. Tuition is $75,600.00 or
$10,800.00 per semester. (Note: our program consists of 7 semesters.) Fees and Expenses
$70 graduation fee
$4,000 for lab coats, books, scrubs, computer screen protectors, etc.
Health Insurance
All students are required to have health insurance while enrolled in our program. This health insurance must be maintained through the entirety of our program. You must provide proof of medical insurance coverage before enrollment, and you must be able to provide proof that you are maintaining that insurance at any time you are asked during your enrollment in the program.
Additional expenses incurred during enrollment in BUPAP’s 27-month program, are the
student’s responsibility. This may include but is not limited to traveling to assigned clinical sites, lodging, meals, etc. At this time, BUPAP does not provide housing for students during clinical rotations. There may be reduced cost housing available at some, but not all sites. Rotations will typically be scheduled anywhere within 150 miles of Bethel University and the student is expected to incur the expense of travel to and from the rotation site, lunch and/or housing. Please plan for these additional expenses ahead of time.
Academic Standards
Students in the BUPAP graduate program must maintain at least a B average (80%) in each course during their didactic year in order to progress to the clinical year. Students must act professionally to everyone at all times while maintaining patient and practice confidentiality. Breeches of professional conduct may result in dismissal from the program.
Grades are assigned by the program on the following:
Individual exams, practicum, check offs, etc. Specific information can be found in your course syllabi.
Grading System:
4.0 GPA A – Excellent (100 – 90) 3.0 GPA B – Good (89 – 80)
Any grade below 80 (3.0 GPA) received by a student of Bethel University PA Program is considered a failing grade.
During the didactic phase, if a student fails a course, a comprehensive make-up exam may be offered to allow the student to demonstrate proficiency in the course and correction of any deficiencies in knowledge and skills.
The final comprehensive exam grade will be averaged as 50% of the total final grade for the course.
There is no guarantee the Promotion/Retention/Disciplinary committee will offer this option. It is at the committee’s discretion based on a review of the student’s overall performance in the program, to include both academic and professional performance.
Remediation and Academic Probation Remediation Policy
If a student earns a grade of less than 75% on any test/exam, the primary course instructor will provide notification of grade to the student, faculty tutor and academic coordinator. The academic coordinator will provide a remediation form to the primary course instructor or faculty tutor and assign the student an appointment time for remediation.
The faculty tutor and/or primary course instructor will meet with the student in order to review the test/exam and where necessary provide additional instruction, study material and or arrange additional tutoring sessions for the student. The faculty member documents and signs the remediation form; the form is then to be signed by the student, and forwarded to the student’s advisor for signature then returned to the academic coordinator. This completes the remediation process.
Students will be allowed to remediate 2 times per course per semester or 5 times total in a semester before meeting with the Promotion/Retention/Disciplinary Committee to discuss their future in the program.
Academic Probation Policy
Students must maintain a class average of 82% or greater at all times. If a student’s running average falls below 82% in any course, after two tests/exams in that course, the student will be placed on academic probation for the remainder of the semester. This is to insure early recognition of and intervention for deficiencies in knowledge and/or skills.
While on academic probation the student is required to meet regularly with his/her academic advisor to discuss and review study habits and progress.
If a student is required to remediate a test/exam while on academic probation, that student will be required to meet with the Promotions/Retention/Disciplinary committee to discuss his/her future in the program.
If the student’s running average falls below 82% after two tests/exams in any other course while on academic probation, that student will be required to meet with the Promotions/Retention/Disciplinary committee to discuss his/her future in the program.
List of Essential Functions and Technical Standards
Bethel University Physician Assistant Program considers it essential for all physician assistant students to have the knowledge and skill to function in a variety of clinical settings and to provide a wide spectrum of patient care as required by the curriculum. Therefore every physician assistant student must master a common body of basic science knowledge and master the principles, knowledge and procedures of the core clinical rotations, including internal medicine, family medicine, surgery, emergency medicine, pediatrics, women’s health and behavioral/mental health. This requires that every student have sufficient abilities and skills in: Observation, Communication, Motor/Tactile Function, Cognitive/Intellectual Function and Behavioral/Social Attributes.
Reasonable accommodation for persons with documented disabilities will be considered on an individual basis, but a candidate must be able to perform in an independent manner. Surrogates cannot be used to accomplish the essential requirements. The use of a trained intermediary is not acceptable in many clinical situations, in that it implies that a candidate’s judgment must be
mediated by someone else’s power of selection and observation. Furthermore, it is expected that the student will meet the technical standards throughout the duration of the program of study. It is incumbent on the student to notify the program immediately if he/she is unable to meet one of the standards.
Completion of Bethel University’s PA Program requires that the student independently demonstrates these capabilities outlined more fully below. The following skills are required with or without accommodation.
Observation:
Observation includes the ability to perceive, using senses and mental abilities, information presented in both educational and clinical settings. Educational information will be presented through lectures, small groups and one-on-one interactions, as well as written and audiovisual material.
Students must have sufficient sensory capacity to observe in the lecture hall, the laboratory, the outpatient setting, and at the patient’s bedside.
Sensory skills adequate to perform physical examination are required. Functional vision, hearing, and tactile sensation must be adequate to observe a patient’s condition and to elicit information through procedures regularly required in a physical exam, such as inspection, auscultation and palpation.
A student must be able to: observe a patient accurately, at a distance, and close at hand, with or without standard medical instrumentation; acquire information from written documents, and visualize information as presented in images from computer screens, paper, film, slides, or video. This includes, but is not limited to, information conveyed through physiologic and pharmacological demonstrations in animals, microbiological cultures and images of microorganisms and tissues in normal and pathologic states.
In any case where a student’s ability to observe or acquire information through these sensory modalities is compromised, the candidate must demonstrate alternate means and/or abilities to acquire and demonstrate the essential information conveyed in this fashion. If the
alternatives are acceptable, it is expected that obtaining and using such alternate means and/or abilities shall be the responsibility of the student.
Communication:
Communication is the ability to speak, hear, read and write sufficiently to achieve adequate exchange of information with other healthcare professionals, patients and their support network.
The student must have the ability to receive and process auditory information and speak and write clearly for all communications with patients, their families and other healthcare professionals.
The student must communicate effectively through written and electronic media.
The student must be able to communicate sensitively with patients and their families.
The student must be able to read sufficiently to comprehend complex medical literature and convey this information in easy to understand terms.
The student must be able to perceive forms of non-verbal interpersonal communications including facial expressions, body language and affect.
Students must be able to communicate effectively in both academic and health care settings. Motor and Tactile Function:
A student must have sufficient motor function to directly perform palpation, percussion, auscultation and other diagnostic and therapeutic maneuvers.
A student must be able to execute movements reasonably required to provide general and emergency medical care to patients. These skills require coordination of fine and gross motor skills, equilibrium and functional sensation.
A student must have the capability to manipulate equipment and instruments for the performance of basic laboratory tests and procedures.
A student must have the ability to move oneself from one setting to another and negotiate the patient care environment in a timely fashion.
A student must have sufficient physical stamina to perform the rigorous course of didactic and clinical study. This includes long periods of sitting, standing and moving, which are required for classroom, laboratory and clinical experiences.
Intellectual:
A student must be able to demonstrate cognitive and problem solving skills in a timely fashion necessary for medical problem solving and patient care. Problem solving is one of the critical skills demanded of physician assistants. It requires all of these intellectual abilities:
o Comprehension of visual-spatial relationships;
o Reading and understanding the medical literature and the patient’s chart; and, o Learning, measuring, calculating, retrieving, prioritizing, analyzing, organizing,
assimilating, integrating and synthesizing technically detailed and complex information and applying this information appropriately.
Behavioral and Social Attributes:
The student must possess the emotional health required for full utilization of their intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment and the prompt completion of all academic and patient responsibilities.
The student must be able to develop mature, sensitive and effective relationships with patients and their family members, staff and colleagues.
The student must be able to work collaboratively and effectively as a member of a small group in class as well as a healthcare team member.
The student must have sufficient interpersonal skills to relate positively with people across society, including all ethnic backgrounds, economic levels, sexual orientation and belief systems.
The student must possess compassion and concern for others, interest in and motivation for service and integrity.
The student must be able to tolerate physically taxing workloads and to function effectively under mentally and emotionally stressful situations.
The student must be able to adapt to changing environments, to display flexibility and function in the face of uncertainties inherent in clinical practice.
The student must behave in an ethical and moral manner that is consistent with professional values.
The student must be able to accept constructive criticism and appropriately respond through modification of his/her behavior.
In the first year of the program, all PA students are required to attend all classes and educational sessions, master physical examination skills, complete all laboratory exercises, attend assigned patient interactions and complete BLS/ACLS. In the clinical year, students must successfully complete all assigned rotations which may include extended hours of instruction, evenings, nights and weekends. Students must be able to transport themselves to all training sites. It is the
responsibility of each applicant to affirm that they meeting these technical standards upon entrance to the Physician Assistant Program. During enrollment, the program’s Promotion, Retention and Disciplinary (PRD) committee will monitor students for continuing compliance with technical standards. The faculty of the Physician Assistant Program recognizes its responsibility to present candidates for the MSPAS degree, who have the knowledge and skills to function in a wide variety of clinical situations and to render a broad spectrum of patient care.
Reasonable accommodations will be made for applicants with disabilities who can meet the requirements noted above. These accommodations must be accomplished without altering the essential requirements of our medical education. Any student with accessibility needs should contact the Office of Disability Services, website:
http://www.bethelu.edu/academics/academic_resources/bethel_university_tutoring_center/office_of_ disability_services/.
American’s Disabilities Act Statement
Bethel University is committed to equal opportunity in education for all students, including those with documented disabilities. If you have a diagnosed disability, or if you believe that you have a disability that might require accommodation in this program, please contact Tan Gee Deem (731) 352-4012. Bethel University policy states that it is the responsibility of students to contact instructors to discuss appropriate accommodations to ensure equity in grading, experiences and assignments. Furthermore, the PA Program policy is that you will report a medically documented learning disability to the Program Director during orientation week.
Attendance Policy
Classroom attendance is required except for emergencies.
a. Only in cases of family emergency, personal illness, or injury, will you be excused. b. Absence due to illness of two consecutive days or longer will require medical clearance to
excuse the absence and return to the program.
c. Medical clearance must be completed by a licensed physician, PA or NP and submitted to the Program Administrative Assistant. This cannot be issued by a family/faculty member. d. The final determination of “true emergency” will be at the discretion of the Program Director
and/or the Medical Director.
e. Being absent on the day of a test is an unexcused absence and you will receive a grade of zero unless you can provide documentation that explains why the absence should be excused (physician’s note).
The Student MUST notify the Academic Coordinator the night before or by 8:45 the day of the absence by calling (731) 407-7660 and leaving a message.
The student must do this for every day that he/she is absent. Sending a message through a classmate is NOT acceptable. The penalty for excessive absences will be determined by the Program Director and the Promotion/Retention/Disciplinary committee.
a. The responsibility for notifying the Program Director of anticipated absences, reasons for emergency absences, and how all assignments will be completed, rests entirely on the student.
b. PA program faculty is not expected to give make-up exams for unauthorized absences. c. Unexcused absences will not be tolerated and may result in a disciplinary action and a failing
grade.
d. Business appointments, routine dental and medical appointments, weddings, graduations, and other social events are NOT valid reasons for absenteeism.
Pregnancy
A student who is pregnant at the time of matriculation or becomes pregnant at any time before graduation is required to inform the Program Director. A statement from the obstetrician regarding her ability to continue in the PA program is required. If an issue arises, the program will review each case individually. Missed course requirements due to pregnancy will be treated as any other absence. Tardy Policy
Students are to be in their seat and ready to start at the time designated on the academic schedule. You are allowed one tardy per semester; being tardy a second time will result in a 2 point penalty on the next exam in that class. A third tardy will result in a meeting with the
Promotion/Retention/Disciplinary committee.
When you arrive tardy, you must first report to the academic coordinator or other staff and sign a tardy slip and take it to class. You are expected to present the tardy slip to the primary instructor during the first break, to be placed in your academic file. This includes morning and afternoon tardiness. If the academic coordinator is unavailable, have another staff member to help you.
Progression and Graduation Requirements
To qualify for progression and graduation with the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS) degree, students must:
1. Follow the approved course of study, satisfactorily completing all courses.
2. Complete all courses with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.00 with no course or rotation grade below 80%.
3. Demonstrate proficiency in all PA competencies. 4. Settle all financial accounts with the university.
5. Successfully complete the Senior Summative Evaluation upon completion of the clinical year.
Student Load
Physician assistant education is a full-time endeavor. Academic year schedule is Monday thru Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm. Clinical year schedule varies however a minimum of 30 hours per week will be spent in rotation with additional assignments. Students enrolled in the PA Program are required to participate in all of the scheduled courses.
Student Work Policy
Students enrolled in the PA program are not prohibited, but are strongly discouraged from working during the didactic year due to the intense and rigorous nature of the program. Students are not required to work for the program. If you choose to work and are unable to fulfill program requirements due to a work conflict you will be dismissed from the program.
Students enrolled in the BUPAP are prohibited from working during the clinical year due to the intense and rigorous nature of the program. Students are not required to work for the program. Students are not to receive or accept compensation for any work performed within the preceptor’s clinical site or practice. Students may only render services as part of the clinical phase of their education. If you choose to disregard the work policy and are unable to attend scheduled clinical rotations due to a work conflict you will be dismissed from the program.
Student Participation in Evaluation of Program
The PA program is committed to delivering a curriculum that will prepare the student to deliver optimal health care in an ever changing environment. In our commitment to the process of continuous quality improvement, students are involved in course evaluations, supervised clinical practice evaluations, and faculty evaluations at the closure of each semester. As a future health care provider, the evaluation process will be a part of every continuing medical education course in which the practitioner participates to maintain his/her Physician Assistant license. Students are required to complete these evaluations for didactic courses and supervised clinical practice experiences.
SPRING COURSE CREDIT HOURS
701 CLINICAL MEDICINE I 8
710 PHARMACOLOGY I 3
720 A&P/PATHO I 3
720L A&P/PATHO LAB I 1
730 PHYSICAL DIAGNOSIS I 3
740 CLINICAL SKILLS I 3
750 LAB DIAGNOSTICS I 2
760 MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY 1
770 THE PA PROFESSION 2
780 GENETICS 2
TOTAL FOR SEMESTER 28
SUMMER COURSE CREDIT HOURS
702 CLINICAL MEDICINE II 8
711 PHARMACOLOGY II 3
721 A&P/PATHO II 3
721L A&P/PATHO LAB II 1
731 PHYSICAL DIAGNOSIS II 3
741 CLINICAL SKILLS II 3
751 LAB DIAGNOSTICS II 2
761 EKG 2
762 BEHAVIORAL MEDICINE 2
781 GERIATRICS 2
TOTAL FOR SEMESTER 29
FALL COURSE CREDIT HOURS
703 CLINICAL MEDICINE III 8
712 PHARMACOLOGY III 3
722 A&P/PATHO III 3
722L A&P/PATHO LAB III 1
732 PHYSICAL DIAGNOSIS III 3
742 CLINICAL SKILLS III 3
752 LAB DIAGNOSTICS III 2
763 RADIOLOGY 2
782 PEDIATRICS 2
790 CRITICAL THINKING 2
TOTAL FOR SEMESTER 29
Clinical Year
Electives are available in most specialties as long as a clinical site/preceptor is available and meets criteria as stated on the clinical preceptor qualification form and as outlined in the preceptor
handbook. Students in the clinical phase of the program are not required to and may not set up their own rotations. Rotations will be assigned by the program based on the educational needs of each student. Rotations are typically within a 150 mile radius of the program.
Clinical COURSE CREDIT HOURS
801 FAMILY MEDICINE I 5
802 FAMILY MEDICINE II 5
803 INTERNAL MEDICINE 5
804 EMERGENCY MEDICINE 5
805 GENERAL SURGERY 5
811 MENTAL/BEHAVIORAL HEALTH 5
813 FAMILY MEDICINE/PEDIATRIC MEDICINE 5
814 FAMILY MEDICINE/WOMEN’S HEALTH 5
815 SUMMATIVE EVALUATION 3
816 BUSINESS OF MEDICINE 3
901 ELECTIVE CLINICAL EXPERIENCE I 5
902 ELECTIVE CLINICAL EXPERIENCE II 5
903 ELECTIVE CLINICAL EXPERIENCE III 5
TOTAL FOR CLINICAL YEAR 61
PA Professional Competencies
The clinical role of PAs includes primary and specialty care in medical and surgical practice settings. Professional competencies for physician assistants include the effective and appropriate application of medical knowledge, interpersonal and communication skills, patient care, professionalism, practice-based learning and improvement, and systems-based practice.
Patient-centered, physician assistant practice reflects a number of overarching themes. These include an unwavering commitment to patient safety, cultural competence, quality health care, lifelong learning, and professional growth. Furthermore, the profession’s dedication to the physician- physician assistant team benefits patients and the larger community.
The PA profession defines the specific knowledge, skills, and attitudes required, and provides educational experiences as needed in order for physician assistants to acquire and demonstrate these competencies. The PA student will complete a competencies self-assessment at the end of the didactic year and clinical year.
Medical Knowledge
Medical knowledge includes the synthesis of pathophysiology, patient presentation, differential diagnosis, patient management, surgical principles, health promotion, and disease prevention. Physician assistants must demonstrate core knowledge about established and evolving biomedical and clinical sciences and the application of this knowledge to patient care in their area of practice. In addition, physician assistants are expected to demonstrate an investigative and analytic thinking approach to clinical situations. Physician assistants are expected to understand, evaluate, and apply the following to clinical scenarios:
-based medicine
es, risk factors, underlying pathologic process, and epidemiology for medical conditions
logic and other treatment modalities
fferential diagnoses Interpersonal & Communications Skills
Interpersonal and communication skills encompass the verbal, nonverbal, written, and electronic exchange of information. Physician assistants must demonstrate interpersonal and communication skills that result in effective information exchange with patients, patients’ families, physicians, professional associates, and other individuals within the health care system. Physician assistants are expected to:
hysicians and other health care professionals as a member or leader of a health care team or other professional group
and anxiety
quately document information regarding care for medical, legal, quality, and financial purposes
Patient Care
Patient care includes patient- and setting-specific assessment, evaluation, and management. Physician assistants must demonstrate care that is effective, safe, high quality, and equitable. Physician assistants are expected to:
-centered care
ting with patients and their families
information and preferences, current scientific evidence, and informed clinical judgment
isease prevention and health maintenance
Professionalism
Professionalism is the expression of positive values and ideals as care is delivered. Foremost, it involves prioritizing the interests of those being served above one’s own. Physician assistants must acknowledge their professional and personal limitations. Professionalism also requires that PAs practice without impairment from substance abuse, cognitive deficiency or mental illness. Physician assistants must demonstrate a high level of responsibility, ethical practice, sensitivity to a diverse patient population, and adherence to legal and regulatory requirements. Physician assistants are expected to demonstrate:
physician assistant
ty to patients, society, and the profession
-going professional development
confidentiality of patient information, informed consent, and business practices -reflection, critical curiosity, and initiative
Practice-based Learning & Improvement
Practice-based learning and improvement includes the processes through which physician assistants engage in critical analysis of their own practice experience, the medical literature, and other
information resources for the purposes of self- and practice-improvement. Physician assistants must be able to assess, evaluate, and improve their patient care practices. Physician assistants are expected to:
rm practice-based improvement activities using a systematic methodology in concert with other members of the health care delivery team
of study designs and statistical methods to the appraisal of clinical literature and other information on diagnostic and therapeutic effectiveness
their own education
limitations in themselves and others
Systems-based Practice
Systems-based practice encompasses the societal, organizational, and economic environments in which health care is delivered. Physician assistants must demonstrate an awareness of and
responsiveness to the larger system of health care to provide patient care that balances quality and cost, while maintaining the primacy of the individual patient. PAs should work to improve the health care system of which their practices are a part. Physician assistants are expected to:
use the systems effectively
-effective health care and resource allocation that does not compromise quality of care
assess, coordinate, and improve the delivery and effectiveness of health care and patient outcomes correcting systems-based factors that negatively impact patient care
Educational Philosophy
The BUPAP faculty understands that the field of medicine is constantly evolving. Therefore, we strive to train students to become life-long learners adept at critical thinking. The role of the teacher is to guide and objectively evaluate students, select and present important material and model professional behavior. The teacher will likewise be a life-long learner who will be
objectively evaluated on a regular basis by students and peers.
BUPAP General Goals
To maintain continuous accreditation with the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc.
To graduate students who can achieve a passing score on their certifying exam (PANCE) on the first attempt.
To attract and graduate students who exhibit a servant’s heart.
To graduate medical providers who have achieved an acceptable level of proficiency in effective and appropriate application of medical knowledge, interpersonal and communication skills, patient care, professionalism, practice-based learning and improvement, systems-based practice, as well as an unwavering commitment to continual learning, professional growth and the physician-PA team, for the benefit of patients and the larger community being served.
BUPAP Objectives
Functions and Tasks that Graduates are expected to Perform The Bethel PA Graduate will/will be able to:
have a fully developed identity as a healthcare professional
have developed the desire to provide excellent care in a compassionate manner
have mastered the concepts of anatomy and physiology and pathophysiology
have mastered the concepts of clinical medicine, pharmacology, pediatrics, genetics, geriatrics, electrocardiograms, radiology, medical terminology, laboratory medicine, and behavioral science
understand the history of the PA profession and know the applicable laws, rules and regulations concerning the practice of medicine as a Physician Assistant
proficient in the performance of clinical procedures necessary for practice as a primary care physician assistant
have medical knowledge sufficient to understand pathophysiology, differential diagnosis, patient management, surgical principles, and health promotion and disease prevention in a typical primary care practice
have developed and refined a systematic approach to both the complete and focused history taking and physical exam skills
utilize interpersonal and communication skills that encompass verbal, nonverbal and written exchange of information
have developed an understanding of the PA role in the health delivery system to include patient care that is effective, patient centered, timely, efficient, and equitable for the treatment of health problems and the promotion of wellness
have developed professional relationships where the graduate demonstrates a high level of responsibility, ethical practice, sensitivity to a diverse patient population and adherence to legal and regulatory requirements
sharpen and refine critical analysis skills of their own practice experience, medical literature and other information resources for the purpose of self-improvement
demonstrate an awareness of and responsiveness to the larger health system of health care to provide the
Scholarship Opportunities
The Society of Army Physician Assistants (SAPA)
Captain Sean P. Grimes Physician Assistant Educational Scholarship Award
This scholarships intent is to award financial assistance to an individual who is seeking initial training as a physician assistant or to a PA seeking a baccalaureate, masters or doctoral degree. The amount of award is $6,000.00 annually for the first ten years provided funds are available; then the amount may be reevaluated at the discretion of SAPA BOD. Any army veteran, army active duty solider, any army national guard solider, and any army reservist solider is eligible to apply for this scholarship. Students interested in learning more about this scholarship should apply at :
http://www.sapa.org/SeanScholarshipPage.htm.
Physician Assistant Foundation
The PA Foundation (PAF) is a charitable organization that operates exclusively for educational, scientific, literary, and research purposes. The PAF has developed several programs that can assist students as they strive to reach their goals in school and in their professional practice. In total, the Physician Assistant Foundation has awarded over $1.4 million to deserving PA students across the country. Scholarships are distributed in $2,000.00 denominations. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of financial need, academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and future goals as a PA. Students interested in learning more about this scholarship should apply at : http://www.pa-
foundation.org/scholarships-fellowships/pa-student-scholarships/
Tennessee Rural Health Loan Forgiveness
The Tennessee Rural Health Loan Forgiveness Program is established as part of the system of lottery-funded scholarships and is administered by the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation. Recipients must agree to maintain satisfactory progress in the program of study, complete the medical or dental program within the allocated five (5) years and practice medicine or dentistry in a health resource shortage area after becoming a Tennessee licensed physician, osteopathic physician, physician assistant, dentist, or after receiving a Tennessee certificate of fitness as a nurse
practitioner, for one (1) year for each year of funding provided by a Tennessee Rural Health Loan Forgiveness award. Students must be a citizen of Tennessee and be a resident of Tennessee for one (1) year immediately preceding the date of application. Students interested in learning more about this scholarship should contact TRH at : http://www.tnrp.org/
National Health Service Corp. (NHSC)
The NHSC is dedicated to improving the health of the Nation’s underserved. NHSC clinicians practice in a broad range of community-based systems of care operating in rural and urban federally designated health professional shortage areas. The NHSC is a network of 7,500 primary health care professionals and 10,000 sites working in underserved communities across the country. Students can receive up to $170,000 in loan repayment for completing a five-year service commitment. The program starts with an initial award of $60,000 for two years of services. An award of $30,000 is available for two years of half-time service. The National Health Service Corps scholarship pays tuition, required fees, and some other education costs, tax free, for as many as four years. Education costs may include books, clinical supplies, laboratory expenses, instruments, two sets of uniforms and travel for one clinical rotation. Recipients also receive a monthly living stipend of $1,289.00. The stipend is taxable. Students interested in learning more about the programs offered by the NHSC should apply at: http://nhsc.hrsa.gov/scholarships/
Additional Information
Definition of a Physician Assistant
Physician assistants are health care professionals licensed, or in the case of those employed by the federal government they are credentialed, to practice medicine with physician supervision. As part of their comprehensive responsibilities, PAs conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, counsel on preventive health care, assist in surgery, and write prescriptions. Within the physician-PA relationship, physician assistants exercise autonomy in medical decision making and provide a broad range of diagnostic and therapeutic services. A PA's practice may also include education, research, and administrative services.
PAs are trained in intensive education programs accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).
Because of the close working relationship that PAs have with physicians, PAs are educated in the medical model designed to complement physician training. Upon graduation, physician assistants take a national certification examination developed by the National Commission on Certification of PAs in conjunction with the National Board of Medical Examiners. To maintain their national certification, PAs must log 100 hours of continuing medical education every two years and sit for a recertification every six years. Graduation from an accredited physician assistant program and
passage of the national certifying exam are required for state licensure. History of the Physician Assistant Profession
In the mid-1960s, physicians and educators recognized there was a shortage and uneven distribution of primary care physicians. To expand the delivery of quality medical care, Dr. Eugene Stead of the Duke University Medical Center in North Carolina put together the first class of PAs in 1965. He selected Navy corpsmen who received considerable medical training during their military service and during the war in Vietnam but who had no comparable civilian employment. He based the curriculum of the PA program in part on his knowledge of the fast-track training of doctors during World War II.
Implementation Period (1966 to 1972) - Establishment and development of first formal PA educational programs and PA professional organizations; enactment of model legislation;
establishment of accreditation and certification procedures; endorsement and support of professional, private and Federal organizations; and performance of first acceptance, productivity and role
definitions studies on PAs.
Evaluation and Standardization Period (1973 to 1980) - First AAPA conference held in Texas; first national certifying examination administered; continuing medical education (CME) and re-certifying examination requirements established; rapid expansion of baccalaureate PA educational programs
stimulated by Federal training contracts; initial workforce studies conducted on PAs; establishment of AAPA House of Delegates; and enactment of PA enabling legislation by most states.
Incorporation Period (1981 to 1990) - PA role expansion and increased specialization; positive recognition of PA contributions to the workforce; approval of reimbursement of PA services in certain settings under Medicare Part B; awarding PAs commissioned officer status in uniformed services; passage and revision of legislation including prescriptive privileges in most states. Maturation and Consolidation Period (1991 to 2000) - Health care reform provides new
opportunities and risk for PAs; states continue to revise legislation, rules and regulations to reduce barriers to use PAs effectively in variety of health care settings; Veterans Administration Medical Centers, Military and other Federal sponsored health care institutions rely heavily on PAs to bolster medical staffs; HMOs recognize vital roles of PAs and NPs in reducing cost; steps are taken to foster and maintain close working relationships with organized medicine; rapid expansion of physician assistant programs and trend towards master's level education.
Expansion and Integration Period (2001 to Present) - The number of accredited PA educational programs surpasses 130; the profession celebrates its 35th anniversary; international interest in the PA model of health care delivery grows; record numbers of new PA graduates take the PANCE; and reduced MD resident hours spurs employment and postgraduate learning opportunities for PAs in hospital inpatient settings.
This information was copied from the Physician Assistant History Center at http://www.pahx.org/.
History of Bethel University
Bethel College was established in the flourishing frontier town of McLemoresville in 1842. An outgrowth of McLemoresville Academy or the "Brick Academy," the school was founded as Bethel Seminary and operated under the fostering care of West Tennessee Synod of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Bethel College was granted a charter by the State of Tennessee in 1847. Primarily, Bethel was devoted to the training of young men for the ministry but was open to other young men who were interested in higher learning.
Reuben Burrow was Bethel's first president. He served as president for 20 years, during which time he also served as fundraiser, member of the Board of Visitors, head of the Theology Department and teacher.
The Civil War brought hard times for Bethel College and for McLemoresville. The area around McLemoresville was equally divided between the Union and the Confederates and at times the site of Bethel was occupied by each of the armies. The buildings were used as barracks, and much physical equipment was destroyed by the soldiers. Not only were the laboratory and classroom equipment lost but the student body was also taken from the college. Most of the young men were serving in one or another of the armies. When the war was over, Bethel had also lost its endowment. Bethel reopened in 1865 following the war under the administration of the Rev. Mr. B.W.
McDonnold, and the doors of the institution were open to women for the first time. Bethel College has been a co-educational institution since that time. In 1872, Bethel College was moved from McLemoresville since the building of the railroad had missed it and ended up just north in
McKenzie, Tenn., which was the crossroad of the N.C. & St. L. and the L. & N. Railways. The Rev. Mr. W.W. Hendrix was president at the time of the move to McKenzie. On August 1 2009, Bethel College became Bethel University.
