Physician Associate, M.M.S. Program Goals
ËÄÉ«AV of New Haven PA program has defined the following program goals:
- To graduate students who are prepared to enter the Physician Associate Profession as a new graduate,
- Foster professionalism within a student supportive learning environment, and
- Develop students to become patient-centered physician associates.
Goal 1: To graduate students who are prepared to enter the Physician Associate Profession as a new graduate.
The development of clinical skills that are rooted in scientific knowledge is essential in the preparation of program graduates to enter the profession fully equipped to deliver effective care. ËÄÉ«AV of New Haven Physician Associate program curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation in the basic sciences, with a focus on the biological basis of disease, and consideration of psychosocial factors that influence disease outcomes. Hands-on laboratory exercises, simulations and case studies are integrated throughout the didactic phase of the curriculum to promote the application of scientific concepts to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. During the clinical phase of the curriculum, students put into practice knowledge of clinical medicine, patient-centered care, ethics, professionalism and confidentiality in the care of patients while working as part of an interprofessional team.
Goal 2: Foster professionalism within a student supportive learning environment.
Professionalism is a core competency in PA education and an essential expectation for students throughout the curriculum. Program faculty are expected to model professional behavior in every interaction—with students, colleagues, and the community—creating opportunities for students to develop their own professionalism across diverse settings. The program fosters a supportive environment where open and respectful communication is encouraged. As students build their professionalism skills, they will receive formative feedback from faculty and preceptors to help them understand whether they are meeting expectations. Additionally, the Academic Support Program, interprofessional events hosted by the School of Health Sciences, and service and professional activities in the greater New Haven community promote a sense of belonging and support students’ growth beyond the classroom and clinical rotations.
Goal 3: Develop students to become patient-centered physician associates.
Patient-centered care is associated with improved healthcare outcomes.1 This approach emphasizes the patient’s identity, preferences, and cultural, spiritual, and social context in the decision-making process, empowering patients to be active participants in their own care. Person-centered care competencies are integrated throughout the curriculum and are thoroughly addressed in the dedicated Person-Centered Care course.
1. Yu, C., Xian, Y., Jing, T., Bai, M., Li, X., Li, J., Liang, H., Yu, G., & Zhang, Z. (2023). More patient-centered care, better healthcare: The association between patient-centered care and healthcare outcomes in inpatients. Frontiers in Public Health, 11.