An exploration of the Physician Associate Journey

Powell, Michelle

Abstract

This thesis explored the journey of under-graduate bio-medical science or health
science students to successful completion and transition from student, on a two year
post graduate programme taught outside a Medical School, to working in the mid-level
clinical role of Physician Associate (PA), in the field of Medicine. The objective was to
understand their journey and what effective support mechanisms the student PAs
used; how this would inform future educators and clinical mentors to enable smoother
transitions into their new professional role. A qualitative descriptive approach with
thematic analysis was employed to elucidate on subjective, personal experience, and
perception of the chosen subjects. Total population sampling methods were
undertaken as these reflected the study’s aims, the QD design, and the infancy of the
UK student PA experience. Findings that whilst transitional points within the PA journey
were not identified, several key themes showed (1) PA visibility (2) PA recognition and
understanding (3) PA Support Mechanisms were vital factors to consider when
supporting student progression and enhancing confidence. These themes provided an
increased understanding of this new student’s journey and enabled the development
of a new Physician Associate Clinical and Academic Learning (PCAL) Support
Framework, which will assist future PA students, educators, and clinical mentors to aid
in their transitions to their professional role.
Further knowledge identified the need for a clear support system within clinical practice
that was PA specific, better understanding of the PA role and the student needs
throughout their clinical placements, and a collegiate approach between universities
and employers to enhance support for student PAs to aid their transition and learning
through joint responsibility for learner well-being. The development of the PCAL
framework resulted in the need for visible PA role models within practice, a framework
that supports both educational and clinical learning, and a robust communication
infrastructure to promote greater support across the clinical and academic
environments to enhance PA resilience and student well-being.

Citation

Powell, M. (2024). An exploration of the Physician Associate Journey. (Thesis). University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Feb 23, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Mar 27, 2026
• Keywords: Physician Associate
• Award Date: Mar 26, 2024