Patient care hour opportunities for pre-PA
Hi Lemon8 friends,
Today I wanted to talk about the options premed students have for obtaining patient care hours. There are many things to choose from, and the main thing here is to make sure that the schools you are applying to, except the certain type of hours that you were planning to rack up. For example, some schools may take phlebotomy for patient care hours, while others will want you to be in a more all encompassing role.
The following are some of the most common and most widely accepted patient care hour jobs:
CNA
MA - medical assistant
Phlebotomist
EMT
How did you gain your patient care hours?
Let me know in the comments below!
#lemon8partner #paschool #college #medstudent #medicalstudent #patientcare #cna #nursingassistant
For pre-physician assistant (pre-PA) students, acquiring patient care hours is essential for applying to PA programs. Different programs have varying requirements, and it’s crucial to confirm what types of roles they recognize. Common positions that fulfill these needs include Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA), Medical Assistants (MA), Phlebotomists, and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT). These professions provide invaluable, hands-on patient care experience crucial for developing a strong medical foundation. CNA roles typically involve direct patient interaction, which is highly regarded by most PA schools. As a CNA, students can learn vital skills such as patient monitoring, personal care, and assisting in medical procedures. Similarly, Medical Assistants play a dual role involving clinical and administrative duties, blending patient care with healthcare operations. The phlebotomy role focuses on blood sample collection, emphasizing technical skills and patient communication, while EMTs face emergency situations, honing their ability to think quickly and act decisively. It’s important to ensure that the roles you consider align with specific PA program requirements. For instance, some programs may specify that only hands-on patient care positions will count towards the hours needed. Additionally, activities such as medical scribing or administrative roles may not qualify, as they do not involve direct patient care. Engaging in these roles not only helps to build application credentials but also instills confidence and prepares students for the intensive training ahead in PA schools. Consider volunteering or exploring internships that provide relevant experience to round out your patient care hours as you prepare for a rewarding career in healthcare.