Questions to Ask PA
Strategic questions to evaluate physician assistant programs and make informed decisions about your healthcare career path.
1What's the program's pass rate for the PANCE exam and how do you prepare students for it?
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What's the program's pass rate for the PANCE exam and how do you prepare students for it?
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Why this works
Reveals the program's success rate and preparation quality, which directly impacts your career prospects.
2What clinical rotation opportunities are available and how are they assigned?
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What clinical rotation opportunities are available and how are they assigned?
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Why this works
Clinical experience is crucial for PA education and helps you understand the program's practical training approach.
3What's the faculty-to-student ratio and what are the qualifications of the teaching staff?
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What's the faculty-to-student ratio and what are the qualifications of the teaching staff?
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Why this works
Shows the program's commitment to quality education and helps you assess the level of individual attention you'll receive.
4What support services are available for students, including academic and mental health resources?
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What support services are available for students, including academic and mental health resources?
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Why this works
Reveals the program's commitment to student success and helps you understand available support systems.
5What's the program's approach to diversity and inclusion, and how do you support underrepresented students?
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What's the program's approach to diversity and inclusion, and how do you support underrepresented students?
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Why this works
Shows the program's commitment to equity and helps you understand the learning environment.
6What technology and simulation resources are available for hands-on learning?
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What technology and simulation resources are available for hands-on learning?
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Why this works
Reveals the program's investment in modern education tools and helps you assess the quality of practical training.
7What's the program's approach to interprofessional education and collaboration?
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What's the program's approach to interprofessional education and collaboration?
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Why this works
Shows how well the program prepares students for real-world healthcare teamwork and collaboration.
8What research opportunities are available for students, and how do you support scholarly work?
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What research opportunities are available for students, and how do you support scholarly work?
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Why this works
Reveals the program's commitment to academic excellence and helps you understand opportunities for scholarly growth.
9What's the program's approach to evidence-based practice and how do you teach critical thinking?
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What's the program's approach to evidence-based practice and how do you teach critical thinking?
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Why this works
Shows the program's commitment to modern healthcare practices and helps you understand their educational philosophy.
10What career services and job placement support do you provide for graduates?
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What career services and job placement support do you provide for graduates?
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Why this works
Reveals the program's commitment to student success beyond graduation and helps you understand career support.
11What's the program's approach to continuing education and professional development?
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What's the program's approach to continuing education and professional development?
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Why this works
Shows the program's commitment to lifelong learning and helps you understand their approach to professional growth.
12What's the program's approach to patient safety and quality improvement?
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What's the program's approach to patient safety and quality improvement?
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Why this works
Reveals the program's commitment to healthcare quality and helps you understand their approach to patient care.
13What's the program's approach to healthcare policy and advocacy?
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What's the program's approach to healthcare policy and advocacy?
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Why this works
Shows the program's commitment to healthcare leadership and helps you understand their approach to policy engagement.
14What's the program's approach to healthcare ethics and professional responsibility?
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What's the program's approach to healthcare ethics and professional responsibility?
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Why this works
Reveals the program's commitment to ethical practice and helps you understand their approach to professional development.
15What's the program's approach to healthcare innovation and technology?
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What's the program's approach to healthcare innovation and technology?
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Why this works
Shows the program's commitment to modern healthcare practices and helps you understand their approach to technology integration.
16What's the program's approach to healthcare leadership and management?
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What's the program's approach to healthcare leadership and management?
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Why this works
Reveals the program's commitment to leadership development and helps you understand their approach to management skills.
17What's the program's approach to healthcare communication and patient education?
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What's the program's approach to healthcare communication and patient education?
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Why this works
Shows the program's commitment to patient-centered care and helps you understand their approach to communication skills.
18What's the program's approach to healthcare teamwork and collaboration?
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What's the program's approach to healthcare teamwork and collaboration?
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Why this works
Reveals the program's commitment to interprofessional practice and helps you understand their approach to teamwork.
19What's the program's approach to healthcare quality and patient outcomes?
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What's the program's approach to healthcare quality and patient outcomes?
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Why this works
Shows the program's commitment to healthcare excellence and helps you understand their approach to quality improvement.
20What's the program's approach to healthcare research and evidence-based practice?
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What's the program's approach to healthcare research and evidence-based practice?
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Why this works
Reveals the program's commitment to academic excellence and helps you understand their approach to research integration.
Best Practices for PA Program Evaluation
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Program Research
Accreditation Status
Verify the program is accredited by the ARC-PA and check their accreditation history and any recent issues.
Program Outcomes
Review PANCE pass rates, graduation rates, and employment statistics to assess program quality.
Campus Visits
Tour Facilities
Visit the campus to see classrooms, labs, simulation centers, and other learning facilities.
Meet Current Students
Talk to current students about their experiences, challenges, and satisfaction with the program.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Focusing Only on Prestige
Don't choose a program based solely on reputation. Consider factors like cost, location, and program fit.
Ignoring Financial Aid
Research financial aid options, scholarships, and loan forgiveness programs early in your decision process.
Application Strategies
Early Application
Apply early in the cycle to increase your chances of acceptance and secure your preferred program.
Strong Personal Statement
Write a compelling personal statement that highlights your passion for healthcare and unique experiences.
Additional Resources
Professional Organizations
Join the AAPA and state PA organizations for networking, resources, and professional development opportunities.
Mentorship Programs
Seek out mentorship from practicing PAs to gain insights into the profession and career guidance.