Professional Competencies for the Physician Assistant Program

The Ohio University PA program educates qualified individuals to be highly skilled licensed health care providers who practice team-based medicine in collaboration with physicians. Upon completion of the program, graduates are able to:

1. Elicit and interpret a comprehensive, detailed and accurate medical history for patients across the lifespan and genders and in any clinical setting
2. Perform a detailed or problem focused physical exam across the lifespan and gender and in any clinical setting.
3. Document and present pertinent patient data in a complete, clear and concise manner that is meaningful and informative for the health care team.
4. Demonstrate communication skills to provide complete and well-organized case presentations to other members of the health care team.
5. Perform and/or interpret routine diagnostic studies including common radiographic studies, routine laboratory tests and electrocardiographic studies, based on the patient's medical history and physical examination to help assist in the diagnosis.
6. Formulate a differential diagnosis based on the patient's presenting medical history and physical examination.
7. Analyze pertinent medical information and diagnostic study data to develop diagnostic and/or management plans.
8. Implement and monitor cost-effective treatment plans including pharmacotherapy treatment, for compliance and response to therapy.
9. Perform diagnostic and/or therapeutic procedures as outlined in technical procedures to be taught during the program.
10. Instruct and counsel patients regarding physical and mental health, including proper diet, disease prevention, normal growth and development, family planning, lifestyle risks, and other health care matters
11. Function as a member of the interprofessional health care team with effective communication and professional demeanor.
12. Critically evaluate the medical literature, policies and health care systems to improve patient care, enhance leadership qualities in the community, profession and health care systems.
13. Demonstrate professionalism, responsibility, ethical practice and sensitivity to a diverse patient population.
14. Demonstrate a commitment to continuing medical education, ongoing professional development and scholarly activity.

These tasked are derived from the OHIO PA program learning outcomes and adapted from the Competencies for the Physician Assistant Profession.