1. The answer to the medical workforce crisis???
Physician Associates
The answer to the medical workforce crisis???
Helen Karagic

2. So what are they? Work under the direct supervision of a doctor.
Physician associates support doctors in the diagnosis and management of patients. They are trained to perform a number of roles including:
taking medical histories
performing examinations
diagnosing illnesses
analysing test results
developing management plans.
Work under the direct supervision of a doctor.

3. What else? Not a regulated profession with a register
PAs are not able to prescribe or order xrays
Not able to work independently, always under supervision of a doctor

4. Why at Sheffield Hallam?
Political imperative from DoH
Patient safety and an effective service
HEYH support
Shortage of GPs, Practice Nurses, Emergency Dept doctors
No courses in the north

5. A Profession???
Since July 2015 Faculty of Physician Associates, Royal College of Physicians (Voluntary Register)
Professional documents
The Competence and Curriculum Framework
Matrix of Core Clinical Conditions
Day in the Life of a Physician Associate Video

6. Entry Criteria for the Course
Science Honours Degree 2:1
5 GCSEs inc. English & Maths
Care experience
Selection event includes assessment of NHS Core Values

7. Course Structure 2 years (45 weeks/year)
1600 hours minimum clinical time with specified hours in clinical areas
GP placements at start and end of course
Secondary placements in blocks throughout
National Exam - must pass to join FPA register

8. Modules Year 1 Cardiovascular Medicine Musculoskeletal Management
Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Renal Medicine
Consultation Skills and Assessment
Year 2
Eyes Ears and dermatology
Genitourinary Reproductive and Sexual Health
Mental Health and Neurology
Managing medical Care

9. Placements The minimum core placements : Community Medicine 180 hours
General Hospital Medicine 350 hours
Front Door Medicine 180 hours
Mental Health 90 hours
General Surgery 90 hours
Obstetrics & Gynaecology 90 hours
Paediatrics (acute setting) 90 hours

10. Employment Yet to be discovered in the north..... GP Practice
Emergency Depts.
Mental Health
Anywhere in hospitals!