Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the mission of the Northern Arizona University Physician Assistant Program?
What is the mission of the Northern Arizona University Physician Assistant Program?
To recruit individuals of the highest quality from diverse backgrounds, equip graduates with clinical and professional skills to provide compassionate medical care in Arizona, and focus on evidence-based practice.
Can you tell me about yourself?
Can you tell me about yourself?
My name is Jacqueline Remackel, I'm from Saint Paul, Minnesota. I graduated high school in 2013, studied at ASU, worked as a medical intern and scribe, and I'm currently an orthopedic scribe at Twin Cities Orthopedics.
Why do you want to be a PA?
Why do you want to be a PA?
I want to provide high-quality, personalized medical care and be a supportive medical professional like my pediatrician, Dr. Deeb.
What is the difference between an NP and a PA?
What is the difference between an NP and a PA?
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Are you familiar with any national or state regulations for PAs?
Are you familiar with any national or state regulations for PAs?
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What does a PA do?
What does a PA do?
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What makes you a good candidate for our program?
What makes you a good candidate for our program?
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What qualities or skills do you have that you think would make you a valuable classmate?
What qualities or skills do you have that you think would make you a valuable classmate?
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What are three reasons you want to attend NAU?
What are three reasons you want to attend NAU?
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How have you prepared to be an effective PA?
How have you prepared to be an effective PA?
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What is the biggest challenge facing PAs?
What is the biggest challenge facing PAs?
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Why do you think you would be successful in PA school?
Why do you think you would be successful in PA school?
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How do you study best?
How do you study best?
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How do you deal with stress?
How do you deal with stress?
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How are your time management skills?
How are your time management skills?
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What was your most challenging course of undergrad and why?
What was your most challenging course of undergrad and why?
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What is appealing about Arizona?
What is appealing about Arizona?
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What are you looking for in a PA program?
What are you looking for in a PA program?
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What questions can you ask the interviewers?
What questions can you ask the interviewers?
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How do you feel Obamacare will influence PAs?
How do you feel Obamacare will influence PAs?
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What qualities make a successful PA?
What qualities make a successful PA?
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What qualities should a PA embody during patient visits?
What qualities should a PA embody during patient visits?
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In which specialties is the individual interested in working as a PA?
In which specialties is the individual interested in working as a PA?
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What are some factors that might change the role of PAs in the future?
What are some factors that might change the role of PAs in the future?
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What are some difficulties faced by PAs according to the text?
What are some difficulties faced by PAs according to the text?
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What issues arise from the supervisory relationship between PAs and physicians in Arizona?
What issues arise from the supervisory relationship between PAs and physicians in Arizona?
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The term 'physician assistant' accurately reflects the role of PAs today.
The term 'physician assistant' accurately reflects the role of PAs today.
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What is the original purpose of creating the PA profession?
What is the original purpose of creating the PA profession?
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Who is considered the most important member of a healthcare team?
Who is considered the most important member of a healthcare team?
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What are the short-term and long-term goals of the individual in medicine?
What are the short-term and long-term goals of the individual in medicine?
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Describe a challenging situation faced during MOHs surgery.
Describe a challenging situation faced during MOHs surgery.
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What approach did the individual use to handle a difficult patient with migraines?
What approach did the individual use to handle a difficult patient with migraines?
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What strategies does the individual employ to manage high-stress situations?
What strategies does the individual employ to manage high-stress situations?
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What are your hobbies?
What are your hobbies?
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Tell me about a time you had to adapt to change quickly.
Tell me about a time you had to adapt to change quickly.
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How will you contribute to the PA profession?
How will you contribute to the PA profession?
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What are the care options for hospice patients as of this year?
What are the care options for hospice patients as of this year?
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What steps will you take to promote unity within your cohort?
What steps will you take to promote unity within your cohort?
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What would you do if a patient had HIV but refused to tell their partner?
What would you do if a patient had HIV but refused to tell their partner?
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What would you do if your physician was caught billing Medicare high costs?
What would you do if your physician was caught billing Medicare high costs?
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What are you famous for around your social group?
What are you famous for around your social group?
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Tell me about a time when you made a mistake.
Tell me about a time when you made a mistake.
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You are working as an ICU PA. Who gets the ventilator, a 52-year-old male or a 32-year-old man?
You are working as an ICU PA. Who gets the ventilator, a 52-year-old male or a 32-year-old man?
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What is the most selfless thing you have ever done?
What is the most selfless thing you have ever done?
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What extracurricular activity you've done will help you be successful in PA school?
What extracurricular activity you've done will help you be successful in PA school?
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Tell me about a time when you had to make an ethical decision.
Tell me about a time when you had to make an ethical decision.
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What would you do if you disagree with your supervising MD's decision to administer a medication to a patient?
What would you do if you disagree with your supervising MD's decision to administer a medication to a patient?
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What are your strengths?
What are your strengths?
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What is your biggest weakness?
What is your biggest weakness?
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Describe a situation you had with a patient who made an impact on you.
Describe a situation you had with a patient who made an impact on you.
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What would you do if you suspected a surgeon may be intoxicated?
What would you do if you suspected a surgeon may be intoxicated?
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What would you do if you administered medication to a patient that they are allergic to?
What would you do if you administered medication to a patient that they are allergic to?
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How would you handle a Jehovah's Witness patient who does not accept blood transfusions?
How would you handle a Jehovah's Witness patient who does not accept blood transfusions?
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Is it more important to get patients seen or to spend time with them?
Is it more important to get patients seen or to spend time with them?
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Give an example of a situation where you did more than was expected of you.
Give an example of a situation where you did more than was expected of you.
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If a student fails a test, whose fault is it?
If a student fails a test, whose fault is it?
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What would you do if you saw a co-worker taking medication from the dispose cart?
What would you do if you saw a co-worker taking medication from the dispose cart?
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What would you do if you saw a woman with a suspicious mole?
What would you do if you saw a woman with a suspicious mole?
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How would you respond to a classmate offering you an old exam before the test?
How would you respond to a classmate offering you an old exam before the test?
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First you would grab some hand sanitizer to make sure your hands are clean. Next, _____ to dry off your hands, making it easier to put on the glove.
First you would grab some hand sanitizer to make sure your hands are clean. Next, _____ to dry off your hands, making it easier to put on the glove.
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What is Arizona's PA Scope of Practice?
What is Arizona's PA Scope of Practice?
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How will you contribute to the mission of the program?
How will you contribute to the mission of the program?
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What connections and/or interests do you have in Arizona?
What connections and/or interests do you have in Arizona?
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What is your typical day like?
What is your typical day like?
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What is your Unique Selling Point?
What is your Unique Selling Point?
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Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
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What is OTP?
What is OTP?
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If you could change one thing about the PA profession, what would it be?
If you could change one thing about the PA profession, what would it be?
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If I remember one thing about you, what would that be?
If I remember one thing about you, what would that be?
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Have you applied to any other programs?
Have you applied to any other programs?
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Study Notes
NAU PA Program Mission
- Aim to recruit diverse, high-quality individuals to the physician assistant profession.
- Provide compassionate healthcare to underserved communities in Arizona.
- Focus on interdisciplinary education and evidence-based practices to adapt to healthcare changes.
Personal Journey
- Jacqueline Remackel from Saint Paul, Minnesota, attended Arizona State University as a pre-med major.
- Experience working as a medical intern and later as a medical scribe in various specialties, including dermatology and emergency medicine.
- Worked as a 5th-grade teacher with Teach for America, gaining valuable skills in communication, resilience, and empathy.
Motivation to Become a PA
- Childhood inspiration from pediatrician Dr. Deeb, leading to a passion for providing supportive medical care.
- Influence of a compassionate PA during scribing experience solidified the desire to pursue the PA profession.
- Core values include patient-centered care, accessibility, lifelong learning, teamwork, and versatility.
Differences Between NP and PA
- Nurse Practitioners (NPs) must first be Registered Nurses (RNs); PAs require a bachelor’s and a master's in PA studies.
- NPs are trained in a nursing model focusing on holistic patient care; PAs follow a medical model centered on disease treatment.
- PAs have the flexibility to switch between specialties, enhancing their reach and adaptability in patient care.
PA Regulations
- PAs require state licensure and must operate under a supervising physician.
- Nationally, PAs must graduate from accredited programs and pass the PANCE certification exam.
- PAs need ongoing continuing medical education (CME) to maintain certification.
Role of a PA
- Responsibilities include patient examination, diagnosis, prescribing medications, performing procedures, and developing treatment plans.
- PAs work independently but collaborate closely with physicians and healthcare teams to provide quality care.
Candidate Strengths for NAU Program
- Diverse medical and educational work experience developing a strong work ethic.
- Empathy for underserved communities, backed by significant volunteer history.
- Proven ability to adapt to various medical settings and effectively communicate with patients and teams.
Qualities as a Classmate
- Natural leadership abilities providing motivation and accountability among peers.
- Supportive nature as a compassionate listener, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
- Proven commitment to high-quality healthcare and teamwork, essential in rigorous PA training.
Reasons for Attending NAU
- Alignment with NAU’s mission to serve medically underserved populations.
- The rigorous nature of the program prepares students for adaptability in a changing healthcare landscape.
- The program’s focus on compassion and community involvement resonates with personal values.
Preparation for Being an Effective PA
- Balancing full-time work as a TA while maintaining high academic standards.
- Extensive clinical experience as a scribe across multiple healthcare specialties enhancing medical knowledge.
- Prior teaching experience promoting effective communication and relationship-building with patients.
Challenges Facing PAs
- Anticipation of evolving challenges in a growing PA profession.
- Commitment to adapt and support changes that enhance healthcare delivery, including addressing physician shortages.
Success Factors for PA School
- Strong teamwork and communication skills gained through diverse experiences in fast-paced medical settings.
- High levels of passion and commitment to success in the PA field.
- Flexibility and adaptability to thrive in various clinical situations.### Teamwork and Communication Skills
- Strong communication skills enhance collaboration among healthcare professionals including nurses, medical assistants, and phlebotomists.
- Building rapport with patients is prioritized, with efforts to remember them personally during follow-ups.
- Dedication to education involves extra time spent assisting students, reflecting commitment to mentorship and improved outcomes.
Time Management and Preparation
- Early arrival at clinics (at least 30 minutes) focuses on chart preparation, ensuring providers are informed before patient interactions.
- Adaptability in teaching methods caters to diverse student learning styles, emphasizing flexibility in changing environments.
Effective Studying Techniques
- Clinical learning emphasizes visual and hands-on approaches, reinforcing concepts through writing and repetition.
- Audio recordings of lectures allow for review and additional note-taking, aiding comprehension and retention.
Stress Management Strategies
- Regular morning runs establish a routine that promotes energy and clarity, serving as a proactive stress management technique.
- Collaborative study sessions with peers foster understanding and peer support, enhancing preparedness for discussions and exams.
- Utilization of writing centers helps improve writing skills, reducing anxiety associated with academic writing tasks.
Challenges in Healthcare Education
- Genetics was identified as the most challenging undergraduate course due to complex content and teaching style.
- Innovative studying techniques, including record-keeping of lectures and team-based recitation sessions, were developed to cope with difficulties.
Appeal of Arizona
- Arizona's low cost of living and beautiful scenery contribute to a favorable living environment post-graduation.
- Engaging with the community through volunteering and internships solidifies the commitment to healthcare in the state.
Desired Characteristics in a PA Program
- A rigorous curriculum and high PANCE pass rates are prioritized for post-graduation success.
- Programs should offer community engagement opportunities and job placement resources to facilitate career entry.
Interview Questions for PA Program
- Questions about community involvement of the PA program, support for graduate employment, and insights from faculty can provide depth in understanding the program.
Impact of Obamacare on PAs
- The Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) increases demand for PAs by expanding healthcare access to millions.
- PAs are recognized as primary care providers, reinforcing their role in preventive health care.
Essential Qualities for Success as a PA
- Kindness, empathy, and strong listening skills are essential for effective patient care and relationships.
- Personal connections with patients enable better understanding and treatment of physical and emotional health.
Future Aspirations as a PA
- Interest in working in Pediatrics or family practice, particularly with underserved communities, reflects a commitment to social impact.
- Background in education within low-income communities enhances understanding of healthcare disparities.
Evolving Role of PAs
- Growth in demand for healthcare services due to aging populations, chronic diseases, and physician shortages positions PAs for greater roles.
- Legislative changes allow PAs to manage hospice care, broadening responsibilities in patient care.
Challenges Faced by PAs
- PAs have played pivotal roles in response to COVID-19, showcasing their adaptability and importance in healthcare settings during emergencies.### PA Role and Flexibility
- PAs have redeployed to meet urgent healthcare needs during public health emergencies, with 6% changing specialties and 10% changing work settings in the first 10 weeks of the pandemic.
- Legal restrictions tie PAs to specific physicians, limiting their ability to practice fully, adapt to changing demands, or work in diverse settings.
Regulatory Issues in Arizona
- Arizona requires PAs to operate under a physician's supervisory relationship, impacting scope of practice.
- Outdated regulations increase healthcare liability for physicians, potentially reducing access in rural areas.
- If a supervising physician leaves or passes away, a PA may be unable to continue patient care, disrupting healthcare continuity.
Concerns About PA Title
- The current title "physician assistant" misrepresents the autonomous role of PAs; many advocate for "physician associate" to better reflect collaborative and independent practice.
History of the PA Profession
- The PA profession began in the 1960s due to a shortage of primary care physicians.
- Eugene A. Stead Jr. launched the first PA class at Duke University in 1965, graduating its first cohort on October 6, 1967.
- PAs were created to enhance healthcare delivery and address physician shortages.
Patient-Centric Healthcare Team
- The patient is viewed as the most significant member of the healthcare team, with emphasis on respectful communication and listening to their needs.
- Patients should feel empowered to ask questions and express concerns within the healthcare relationship.
Career Aspirations in Medicine
- Short-term goals include graduating from a strong PA program and passing boards, while long-term goals focus on pediatrics and making healthcare accessible for underserved communities.
Overcoming Adversity in Healthcare
- Successfully handled unexpected scheduling challenges during MOHs surgery by quickly improvising surgical tools while maintaining patient care and satisfaction.
Dealing with Difficult Patients
- Managed a frequent migraine patient by providing empathetic care, comfort measures, and follow-up referrals, resulting in improved patient satisfaction and outcomes.
Managing High-Stress Situations
- Emphasis on organization, preparation, and recognizing personal limits as key strategies in handling stressful medical emergencies.
Ethical Decision-Making in Treatment
- If instructed to administer potentially harmful medication, a PA should fully assess the situation, communicate concerns, and document any objections in the patient's record.
Personal Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths include being personable, empathetic, and analytical, fostering strong relationships with patients and care teams.
- Weakness includes a tendency to focus excessively on details, which has been mitigated through mentorship and learning to adopt a broader perspective.
Impactful Patient Experience
- A transformative interaction with a non-English speaking patient highlighted the importance of communication; learning basic phrases in their language significantly improved care quality and rapport.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Prepare for your Physician Assistant interview at Northern Arizona University with these flashcards. This quiz will help you understand the program's mission, values, and what they seek in candidates. Equip yourself with the knowledge and confidence to excel in your interview.