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University of South Florida
Morsani College of Medicine
Physician Assistant Program
STUDENT HANDBOOK
Class of 2019
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Table of Contents
Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 7
USF Health Morsani College of Medicine Directory ........................................................................ 9
PA Program .............................................................................................................................. 9
Office of Student Affairs ........................................................................................................ 10
Physician Assistant Professional Oath ........................................................................................... 11
Objectives of the Program ............................................................................................................. 12
Program Competencies ................................................................................................................. 14
General Academic Objectives .................................................................................................... 14
Code of Conduct ........................................................................................................................ 14
Program Mission, Vision, Values and Goals .................................................................................. 15
MISSION ................................................................................................................................. 15
VISION .................................................................................................................................... 15
GOALS .................................................................................................................................... 16
Required Knowledge, Skills, Attitudes, and Values ....................................................................... 17
Learning Outcomes and Expectations ....................................................................................... 17
Medical Knowledge ............................................................................................................... 17
Interpersonal & Communication Skills .................................................................................. 17
Patient Care ........................................................................................................................... 17
Professionalism ..................................................................................................................... 18
Practice-Based Learning and Improvement .......................................................................... 18
Systems-Based Practice ......................................................................................................... 18
Technical Standards for Program Admission, Academic Progression, and Graduation ................ 19
Communication ............................................................................................................................. 22
Professionalism ............................................................................................................................. 22
Dress Code and Professional Demeanor ................................................................................... 22
Requirement to Report Criminal Incident ................................................................................. 24
Criminal Background Checks/ Drug Screening .......................................................................... 24
Medical Records and Patient Confidentiality ............................................................................ 25
Filing a Grievance .......................................................................................................................... 26
Harassment.................................................................................................................................... 26
Attendance Guidelines .................................................................................................................. 27
Holidays and Religious Observances ..................................................................................... 30
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Leave of Absence ........................................................................................................................... 31
Guidelines for Leave of Absence ............................................................................................... 31
Withdrawal .................................................................................................................................... 33
PA Faculty and Student Learner Compact ..................................................................................... 34
Faculty/PA Student Learner Compact ................................................................................... 34
Violations of Faculty Learner Compact.................................................................................. 34
Mistreatment or Abuse Violations by faculty........................................................................ 34
Guiding Principles ...................................................................................................................... 34
Commitments of Faculty and Program Administration ........................................................ 35
Commitments of Students..................................................................................................... 36
Academic Honesty Guidelines ....................................................................................................... 37
Academic Standards ...................................................................................................................... 38
Testing Policies .......................................................................................................................... 38
Evaluation of Courses ............................................................................................................ 39
Didactic Year Grading ............................................................................................................ 40
PACKRAT Exam ...................................................................................................................... 41
Clinical Year Grading .............................................................................................................. 41
SCPE Grading Rubric .............................................................................................................. 41
Summative Evaluation ........................................................................................................... 43
Course Grade Appeal Process ....................................................................................................... 45
Promotion, Graduation, Deceleration, Dismissal, and Due Process/Appeals ............................... 47
Academic Performance and Professionalism Committee (APPC) ............................................. 47
Advancement of Students with Satisfactory Performance ....................................................... 50
Requirements for Graduation ................................................................................................... 51
Referrals to Counseling, Tutorial, and Study Skills Service............................................................ 52
Remediation .............................................................................................................................. 52
Didactic year .......................................................................................................................... 53
Clinical Medicine courses I, II, III............................................................................................ 54
Supervised Clinical Practice Experience Remediation ........................................................... 54
Deceleration .............................................................................................................................. 55
Dismissal .................................................................................................................................... 55
Reconsideration to the Academic Performance and Professionalism Committee (APPC) ....... 57
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Appeal to the MCOM Academic Performance Review Committee PA Sub-Committee (APRC-
PASC) ......................................................................................................................................... 57
Appeal to the Dean of the Morsani College of Medicine .......................................................... 58
Student Health and Disability Services .......................................................................................... 59
Enrolled Students with Disabilities ............................................................................................ 59
Student Health........................................................................................................................... 60
Student Health Services ............................................................................................................ 60
Chemical Dependency ............................................................................................................... 61
Pre-matriculation Health Requirements ....................................................................................... 61
Immunizations ........................................................................................................................... 61
Student Health during Patient Care Blood-borne Pathogen Exposures and Other Infectious
Exposures to Communicable Diseases .......................................................................................... 64
Health Requirements for Patient Contact: ................................................................................ 64
Student Exposures at the USF Affiliated Practice Sites: ............................................................ 65
Communicable Illness ................................................................................................................ 65
Mistreatment and Abuse ............................................................................................................... 66
Student Mistreatment, Harassment, or Abuse ......................................................................... 66
Sexual Harassment and Title IX ................................................................................................. 66
Sexual Battery ............................................................................................................................ 67
Center for Victim Advocacy & Violence Prevention .................................................................. 67
Resources - Important Numbers ............................................................................................... 67
USF Ombudsman’s Office .......................................................................................................... 68
Tuition, Fees, and Medical Equipment Requirements .................................................................. 69
Tuition and Fees ........................................................................................................................ 69
Cost of Attendance ................................................................................................................ 69
Financial Aid .............................................................................................................................. 72
Helpful Financial Aid Programs.............................................................................................. 74
Academic Calendar and Curriculum .............................................................................................. 76
ACADEMIC CALENDAR* ............................................................................................................. 76
CURRICULUM ............................................................................................................................. 76
Course Instructors ................................................................................................................. 78
Medical Equipment ............................................................................................................... 78
Employment, Security, Computer Requirements, and Campus Resources/Operations ............... 79
Program Hours .......................................................................................................................... 79
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Class Cancellation and Emergency Closings .......................................................................... 79
Security and Safety .................................................................................................................... 79
Background Screening of Students and Employees .............................................................. 80
Student Screening ................................................................................................................. 80
Employment While Enrolled in the Program ......................................................................... 80
Educational Resources .............................................................................................................. 82
USF Shimberg Health Sciences Library .................................................................................. 82
Tampa General Hospital Library ............................................................................................ 82
Veteran's Administration Hospital Medical Library .............................................................. 82
Parking on Campus ................................................................................................................ 84
Computer Use and Requirements ......................................................................................... 84
Bicycles .................................................................................................................................. 89
Post Office ............................................................................................................................. 89
USF Student ID and Activities ................................................................................................ 89
Student Council ..................................................................................................................... 89
Religious and Spiritual Life at USF ......................................................................................... 90
Childcare ................................................................................................................................ 90
Registrar, Career Advising, Academic Assistance, Counseling, and Campus Resources ............... 91
Registrar .................................................................................................................................... 91
Student Records Policy .......................................................................................................... 91
Advising and Assistance ................................................................................................................. 93
Career Advising .......................................................................................................................... 93
Academic Assistance ................................................................................................................. 93
Tutoring, Reading, Study Skills, and Test Taking Assistance ................................................. 93
Stress Prevention and Counseling ............................................................................................. 93
USF Counseling Center .......................................................................................................... 95
Supervised Clinical Practice Experience ........................................................................................ 96
Clinical Year Schedule Class of 2019 .......................................................................................... 96
Purpose ...................................................................................................................................... 97
Overview of the Supervised Clinical Practice Experience (SCPE) Phase .................................... 98
Course Descriptions ................................................................................................................... 99
Clinical Site Affiliation Agreements ......................................................................................... 101
Student Identification .............................................................................................................. 101
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Program Responsibilities ......................................................................................................... 102
Preceptor’s Responsibilities .................................................................................................... 102
Request for an Excused Absence from an Examination ...................................................... 104
Absence Report Form .......................................................................................................... 105
Acknowledgement of Receipt of PA Program Student Handbook ...................................... 106
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Introduction
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On behalf of the faculty, administration, staff, and student body, we welcome you to the
University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine Physician Assistant Program
(USF MCOM PA Program).
The ARC-PA has granted Accreditation - Provisional status to the USF Morsani College of
Medicine Physician Assistant Program sponsored by the University of South Florida.
Accreditation-Provisional is an accreditation status granted when the plans and resource
allocation, if fully implemented as planned, of a proposed program that has not yet
enrolled students appear to demonstrate the program’s ability to meet the ARC-PA
Standards or when a program holding Accreditation-Provisional status appears to
demonstrate continued progress in complying with the Standards as it prepares for the
graduation of the first class (cohort) of students.
Accreditation-Provisional does not ensure any subsequent accreditation status. It is
limited to no more than five years from matriculation of the first class.
This handbook has been developed by the administration and faculty of the PA Program.
It contains guidance statements and the policies and procedures of the PA Program,
MCOM, and USF in compliance with the ARC-PA accreditation Standards and policies.
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All students, principal faculty and the PA Program Director are subject to the policies of
the program and of the University as delineated in the USF Student Rights and
Responsibilities website. It is recognized that this handbook may not contravene the
constitutions and laws of the state of Florida; rules, regulations, and policies of the
Florida Board of Governors; and rules, regulations, and policies of USF. The foregoing
authorities will govern in the event that any provision of a local governance document is
inconsistent with or in conflict with them.
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It is the student’s responsibility to read this handbook. All students must sign an
acknowledgement form of understanding prior to beginning of the program and again
before the clinical year stating they have read, understood, and agree to abide by the
contents of this handbook.
Although not specifically stated after each section, failure to comply and/or conform to
the guidelines, academic requirements, rules, and regulations of this handbook could
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
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A3.02
2
A1.03c,
3
A1.03f, A3.01
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result in disciplinary action, up to and including referral to the PA Program Academic
Progress and Professionalism Committee (APPC) and dismissal from the program.
This Handbook is not a contract between the University and you. Rather it is intended
to provide up-to-date information, which will be helpful to you. If you have questions or
need clarification, please contact the PA Program office, MDC 900, 813-974-8926.
The policies outlined in this handbook apply to all PA Program students, staff, principal
faculty, and the program director.
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Students are expected to follow all policies of the
university as delineated on the University of South Florida Student Catalog webpage
and the guidelines set out in this handbook.
Note: Policies and guidelines presented in this handbook are subject to change at any
time. As changes occur in institutional policies that affect students, they will be
notified via e-mail.
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Current revision date: 03/20/2017
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
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A3.01
5
A3.02
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USF Health Morsani College of Medicine Directory
Leadership
Charles (Charly) J. Lockwood, MD, MHCM
Senior Vice President, USF Health
Dean, USF Health Morsani College of Medicine
Bryan Bognar, MD, MPH, FACP
Vice Dean, Educational Affairs
Morsani College of Medicine
Gretchen Koehler, Ph.D.
AVP for Academic Program Administration, and Institutional Effectiveness -
USF Health;
Senior Associate Dean, Morsani College of Medicine
PA Program
Todd Wills, MD
Assistant Dean and Associate Professor
Program Director
Kaley Tash, MD
Medical Director
Adrienne Kinsella, BA
Assistant Director and
Program Administrator
Alexander Neff, MLIS
Curriculum and Assessment Support Analyst
Megan Connery, M.Ed
Academic Program Administrator
Larry Collins, MPAS, PA-C
Assistant Professor / Career Counseling
Kathleen Flach, M.Ed., MMS, PA-C
Academic Director
William “Randy” Ungureit, MPAS, PA-C
Clinical Director
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Physician Assistant Professional Oath
I pledge to perform the following duties with honesty and dedication:
I will hold as my primary responsibility the health, safety, welfare and dignity of all
human beings.
• I will uphold the tenets of patient autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence and
justice.
• I will recognize and promote the value of diversity.
• I will treat equally all persons who seek my care.
• I will hold in confidence the information shared in the course of practicing
medicine.
• I will assess my personal capabilities and limitations, striving always to improve
my medical practice.
• I will actively seek to expand my knowledge and skills, keeping abreast of
advances in medicine.
• I will work with other members of the health care team to provide
compassionate and effective care of patients.
• I will use my knowledge and experience to contribute to an improved
community.
• I will respect my professional relationship with the physician.
• I will share and expand knowledge within the profession.
These duties are pledged with sincerity and upon my honor.
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Objectives of the Program
The Physician Assistant practice, as a medical profession for the 21
st
century, must be
responsive to social needs and demands, as well as keeping pace with changing
technology. In response to this challenge, the faculty of the PA Program emphasizes
ongoing review and adaptation of educational techniques to meet the health care needs
of society for today and tomorrow.
The curriculum of the program is designed to instill a caring and competent attitude of a
health care professional. Principles stressed to achieve this goal include development of
a strong foundation in the basic sciences relevant to the practice of clinical medicine,
early exposure to patients in a clinical setting, an emphasis on active student centered
learning, and the use of technology in both classroom and clinical settings. Through
these principles students learn to take on progressive responsibility for patient care
commensurate with their level of training. Using a competency-based curriculum,
student progress is tracked and assessed to ensure that graduates are ready for clinical
practice.
Student progress toward these competencies is carefully monitored to determine that
the fundamental knowledge of the basic sciences in relation to career goals in medicine
is achieved. The first year of the program places emphasis on the basic sciences. The
second year of the program emphasizes clinical training with repeated reinforcement of
theme throughout the educational process. Physician assistant and physician mentors in
both inpatient and outpatient settings provide valuable guidance. Through this training
program, students will attain established competencies related to the knowledge, skills,
attitudes, and values of the physician assistant.
To achieve these objectives, the PA Program strives to train physician assistants who:
• Have the clinical knowledge and skills necessary to evaluate, diagnose, and manage
common acute and chronic primary health care problems in the emergency,
ambulatory care, and hospital setting.
• Have the ability to screen for disease and counsel patients on issues of health
promotion and disease prevention.
• Have the ability to provide psychological support to patients during episodes of
illness or emotional crisis.
• Utilize community health care resources in a cost effective manner.
• Communicate and work effectively with other members of the health care team and
the patient’s family.
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Upon successful completion of the two-year curriculum, the student is awarded the
Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree.
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The graduate is then eligible to sit for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam
(PANCE) administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician
Assistants (NCCPA).
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
6
A1.03e
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Program Competencies
Competencies for the Physician Assistant Profession
In 2003, the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)
initiated an effort to define PA competencies in response to similar efforts being
conducted within other health care professions and growing demand for accountability
and assessment in clinical practice. The following year, representatives from three other
national PA organizations, each bringing a unique perspective and valuable insights,
joined NCCPA in that effort. Those organizations were the Accreditation Review
Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA), the body that accredits
PA educational programs; the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA) -
formerly the Association of Physician Assistant Programs (APAP), the membership
association for PA educators and program directors; and the American Academy of
Physician Assistants (AAPA), the only national membership association representing all
PAs.
The resultant document, Competencies for the Physician Assistant Profession, is a
foundation from which each of those four organizations, other physician assistant
organizations, and individual physician assistants themselves can chart a course for
advancing the competencies of the PA profession. This document was updated in 2012
and approved in its current form by the same four organizations.
General Academic Objectives
We endorse the NCCPA Content Blueprint.
Code of Conduct
We endorse the NCCPA Code of Conduct for Certified and Certifying Physician
Assistants.
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Program Mission, Vision, Values and Goals
MISSION
To provide a scholarly environment in which students from diverse backgrounds receive
the requisite knowledge and skills to equip them to deliver high-quality, culturally
sensitive, and compassionate healthcare, in collaboration with physicians in an
interdisciplinary healthcare team.
VISION
To achieve national prominence for excellence in developing innovative educational
strategies in order to produce high-achieving graduates, who serve their communities as
professional evidence based, patient-centered health care providers.
VALUES
• High Standards - In upholding the highest standards, we will:
o Demonstrate ethical leadership by example.
o Conduct ourselves with integrity, avoiding conflicts of interest.
o Hold our work to the highest academic standards.
• Respect for Individuals - In valuing respect for individuals, we pledge to:
o Treat others with respect and dignity, honoring individual differences.
o Promote open communication and listen proactively.
o Create collegial environment based on loyalty to our co-workers.
• Advancing Knowledge - In expressing our passion for learning, we encourage:
o Exploration of new ideas in our teaching and research.
o The courage to meet challenges and assume risk.
o Diverse learning opportunities where creativity thrives.
o Interdisciplinary teamwork.
• Personal Development and Leadership - Recognizing that exceptional quality
begins with people, we create:
o A culture of personal development and professional fulfillment.
o A workplace where expectations are matched by our reward system.
o An atmosphere where people value the balance between work and
family.
o A mentor-rich culture where faculty, staff and students can enhance their
leadership skills.
• Commitment to Health - Supporting our fundamental belief in the PA/patient
relationship, we are committed to
o The highest quality medical care to our patients.
o Training the next generation of Physician Assistants to be capable and
compassionate.
o Promoting good health and well-being in response to the needs of our
community.
o Our community partners who help us achieve excellence in all that we
do.
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GOALS
Goal
Measurement of Success
Outcomes
Recruit, retain, and successfully
graduate high-achieving
candidates of diverse
backgrounds.
• Admissions Data
Published
upon
availability
Deliver a robust, creative, and
innovative curriculum grounded
in team-based, inter-
professional, and clinically
relevant learning experiences.
• Annual curriculum analysis
Published
upon
availability
Graduate students who
demonstrate preparedness for
the Physician Assistant National
Certification Examination
(PANCE), with a first time pass
rate at or above the national
average.
• PANCE pass rate
Published
upon
availability
Encourage students to become
committed to lifelong personal
and professional development
as a Physician Assistant through
participation in professional
organizations.
•
Number of student membership
to AAPA and FAPA.
• Number of leadership roles in
professional organizations such
as student/faculty representative
to the organization, chairing
committees, elected position on
the board of directors, etc.
• Graduate survey
Published
upon
availability
Graduate students who
effectively practice evidence-
based, patient-centered
healthcare in diverse medical
communities.
• Graduate survey
• Employer survey
Published
upon
availability
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Required Knowledge, Skills, Attitudes, and Values
Learning Outcomes and Expectations
The PA Program defined learning outcomes and expectations are based on the
Competencies for the Physician Assistant Profession as developed jointly by the National
Commission on Accreditation of Physician Assistants (NCCPA), the Accreditation Review
Commission for Education of the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA), the Physician Assistant
Education Association (PAEA), and the American Academy of Physician Assistants
(AAPA).
Student success in achieving the program defined learning outcomes and expectations
will be monitored throughout the didactic and clinical phases of the program. The
program faculty and clinical preceptors will evaluate students through a variety of
assessment tools, including but not limited to: multiple choice examinations,
collaborative group projects, objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs),
reflection papers, and clinical performance evaluations.
Our graduates will demonstrate entry-level proficiency as Physician Assistants in the
following program defined learning outcomes:
Medical Knowledge
• Demonstrate core knowledge about established and evolving biomedical and
clinical sciences and the application of this knowledge to patient care.
• Demonstrate an investigative and analytic thinking approach to clinical
situations.
• Understand, evaluate, and apply the following to common emergent and non-
emergent medical, surgical, and behavioral scenarios:
o History and physical findings and diagnostic studies to formulate
differential diagnoses
o Management of general medical and surgical conditions to include
pharmacologic and other treatment modalities
o Interventions for prevention of disease and health
promotion/maintenance
Interpersonal & Communication Skills
• Demonstrate interpersonal and communication (verbal, nonverbal, written, and
electronic) skills that result in effective information exchange with patients,
patients’ families, physicians, professional associates, and other individuals
within the health care system.
• Accurately and adequately document information regarding care for medical,
legal, quality, and financial purposes.
Patient Care
• Obtain an accurate history and perform a comprehensive physical exam.
• Perform medical and surgical procedures common to primary care.
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• Provide health care services and education aimed at disease prevention and
health maintenance.
Professionalism
• Demonstrate a high level of responsibility, ethical practice, and adherence to
legal and regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrate sensitivity to a diverse patient population by identifying the socio-
cultural, familial, psychological, economic, environmental, and spiritual factors
impacting health care and health care delivery; and responding to these factors
by planning and advocating the appropriate course of action at both the
individual and the community level.
Practice-Based Learning and Improvement
• Critically evaluate the medical literature in order to use current practice
guidelines and apply the principles of evidence-based medicine to patient care.
Systems-Based Practice
• Provide advocacy and support to assist patients in obtaining quality care and in
dealing with the complexities of health care delivery systems.
• Demonstrate an awareness of and responsiveness to the larger system of health
care to provide patient care that balances quality and cost, while maintaining the
primacy of the individual patient.
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Technical Standards for Program Admission, Academic Progression, and Graduation
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The PA Program is committed to comply with Section 504 of the 1973 Vocational
Rehabilitation Act and PL 101-336, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and also
ascertains that certain minimum technical standards must be present in the prospective
candidates.
The PA Program has determined technical standards that are essential for successful
progression and completion of all aspects of the curriculum, as well as entry into the
profession. These technical standards are required for admission and must be
maintained throughout the student’s enrollment in the program. In the event a student
is unable to fulfill these technical standards, with or without reasonable
accommodation, the student will be subject to dismissal.
Candidates for and students of the program must have somatic sensation and the
functional use of the senses of vision and hearing. Candidates’ and students’ diagnostic
skills will also be lessened without the functional use of the senses of equilibrium, smell,
and taste. Additionally, they must have sufficient exteroceptive sense (touch, pain, and
temperature), sufficient proprioceptive sense (position, pressure, movement,
stereognosis, and vibratory) and sufficient motor function to permit them to carry out
the activities described in the section above. They must be able to consistently, quickly,
and accurately integrate all information received by whatever sense(s) employed, and
they must have the intellectual ability to learn, integrate, analyze, and synthesize data.
Technological compensation can be made for some disabilities in these areas, but a
candidate should be able to perform them in a reasonably independent manner. The
use of a trained intermediary would mean that a student’s judgment must be mediated
by someone else’s power of selection and observation. Therefore, third parties cannot
be used to assist students in accomplishing curricular requirements in the five skill areas
specified below. Reasonable accommodations can be made for documented disabilities.
• Observation
o Candidates and students must be able to observe a patient accurately at
a distance and close at hand.
o Observation necessitates the functional use of the sense of vision,
hearing, smell, and somatic sensation.
• Communication
o Candidates and students must be able to speak, hear, and observe
patients in order to elicit information, describe changes in mood, activity,
and posture, and perceive nonverbal communications.
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
7
A3.15e
20
o Candidates and students must be able to communicate effectively and
sensitively with patients.
o Candidates and students must be able to communicate (verbal,
nonverbal, and written) effectively and efficiently in oral and written
form with all members of the healthcare team.
o Candidates and students must possess reading skills at a level to be able
to independently accomplish curricular requirements and provide clinical
care for patients.
• Motor Coordination and Function
o Candidates and students should have sufficient motor function to elicit
information from patients by palpation, auscultation, percussion, and
other diagnostic maneuvers.
o Candidates and students should be able to do basic laboratory tests,
carry out diagnostic procedures, and read EKGs and X-rays.
o Candidates and students should be able to execute motor movements
reasonably required to provide general care and emergency treatment to
patients.
Examples of emergency treatment reasonably required of
Physician Assistants are cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the
administration of intravenous medication, application of pressure
to stop bleeding, the opening of obstructed airways, the suturing
of simple wounds, and the performance of simple obstetrical
maneuvers.
Such actions require coordination of both gross and fine muscular
movements, equilibrium, and functional use of the senses of
touch and vision.
• Intellectual, Conceptual, Integrative, and Quantitative Abilities
o Candidates and students must exhibit the following intellectual abilities:
Measurement
Calculation
Reasoning
Analysis
Synthesis
Comprehend three-dimensional and spatial relationships
o The above listed abilities are necessary skills in order to perform problem
solving tasks quickly and efficiently.
• Behavioral and Social Attributes
o Candidates and students must possess the behavioral emotional health
required for full use of their intellectual abilities, the exercise of good
judgment, the prompt completion of all responsibilities attendant to the
diagnosis and care of patients, and the development of mature, sensitive,
and effective relationships with patients.
o Candidates and students must be able to tolerate physically taxing
workloads and to function effectively when under stress.
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o Candidates and students must be able to adapt to changing
environments, to display flexibility, and to learn to function in the face of
uncertainties inherent in the clinical problems of many patients.
o Candidates and students must demonstrate empathy, integrity, concern
for others, interpersonal skills, interest, motivation, and the ability to
interact with people at all levels in a culturally diverse society.
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Communication
E-mail is the official method of communication between the PA Program faculty and all
students. Therefore, it is your responsibility to check your USF Health e-mail account
daily. Timely response to e-mail correspondence is expected.
Professionalism
Professionalism is an essential part of the PA profession, and the Morsani College of Medicine’s
PA Program is committed to assisting the development of professional attitudes and values in all
our students. There are numerous components to professionalism, including reliability,
adherence to ethical principles and effective collaboration with others (including peers,
supervisors, patients, families and other members of the health care delivery team).
All constituents of the program are expected to demonstrate professional behavior,
defined by the program and college's mission, vision and values which are behaviors
consistent with expectations of the public and the profession. For the Physician
Assistant profession, these values and behaviors are delineated in the National
Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants Code of Conduct and the American
Academy of Physician Assistants Guidelines for Ethical Conduct for the Physician
Assistant Profession.
Dress Code and Professional Demeanor
8
PA Program students, at all levels of education and training, are expected to maintain a
proper professional image in their behavior and personal appearance at all times.
During the pre-clinical years, students are expected to wear clean, appropriate apparel
(shirts, pants, dresses, skirts, etc.) and shoes to all academic functions and on the
premises of USF (all campuses).
All students must wear a short, waist length lab coat embroidered with an MCOM patch,
their name, and the PA Program designation. ID badges during the clinical training years,
and/or any time students have contact with patients, are to be worn prominently in the
patient care areas. Shorts are not to be worn at any time when there may be interaction
with patients. Men should wear shirt and tie, and women should wear appropriate
dresses or slacks and blouses, as well as closed toe shoes at times when there may be
interaction with patients.
Business professional attire is required to be worn at all times. The following items are
considered inappropriate:
• Short skirts or dresses
• Tube tops
• Excessive jewelry
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
8
B3.01
23
• Facial piercings
• Flip flops
• Open-toes shoes
• Jeans
• Low cut tops
• Shorts
• Tee shirts
• Visible tattoos
• Clothing that reveals shoulders or midriff
The PA Program expects all students to be professional in their dealings with patients,
colleagues, faculty, and staff and to exhibit caring and compassionate attitudes.
Students should be attentive and respectful to lecturers and instructors. Talking, surfing
the internet, communicating on social networks, or causing general disturbances during
class time is inappropriate. These and other qualities will be evaluated in the
Professionalism Evaluation
8
form by each course instructor in the didactic year and each
preceptor during your clinical year rotations. Professional behavior is defined as
behavior appropriate to the circumstances. Professional behavior reflects on a student’s
qualification and potential to become a competent clinician. Attitudes or behaviors
inconsistent with compassionate care; refusal by, or inability of, the student to
participate constructively in learning or patient care; derogatory attitudes or
inappropriate behaviors directed at patients, peers, faculty, preceptors, or staff; misuse
of written or electronic patient records (i.e. accession of patient information without
valid reason); substance abuse; failure to disclose pertinent information on a criminal
background check; or other unprofessional conduct can be grounds for dismissal.
Dismissal from the program for unprofessional behavior may, subsequently, jeopardize
the student’s eligibility for admission to any other college in the university.
Examples of standards for professional behavior include, but not limited to the
following: accepting personal responsibility for the care of one’s patients;
demonstrating appropriate truthfulness and honesty with colleagues; communicating an
attitude of caring (empathy) in the course of health care delivery; recognizes personal
beliefs, prejudices, and limitations; demonstrates respect for patients, families,
members of the health care team, and colleagues; demonstrates initiative in patient
care and a consistently good work ethic; and respects patient confidentiality at all times
in verbal and written communication with others. Inadequate communication and/or
failure to respond to communication initiated by the PA Program is also considered
unprofessional, and may result in a substantial reduction in professionalism grade on
any given rotation.
24
The conferring of the Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree certifies that the
student is not only competent to undertake the career as a physician assistant but
possesses the personal traits essential to the profession as judged by the faculty,
preceptors, peers, and colleagues.
Students who are in not in adherence with the professional standards set forth by the
program will have a hearing of the Academic Performance and Professionalism
Committee (APPC). If the Committee determines that unprofessional behavior was
demonstrated by a student, the following steps may be taken:
• Depending on the severity of the behavior, the student may be warned in writing
that the behavior is unacceptable and that if the behavior is continued, it may
lead to their dismissal from the program. Such a letter will provide examples
about what is or what is not acceptable, and may encourage the student to seek
professional help from an appropriate resource. The letter may state that
counseling, therapy, and anger management sessions may be considered as
options. Some types of behavior may be so egregious to justify immediate
dismissal of a student, such a criminal acts or substance abuse.
• If there is a second documented case of unprofessional behavior, the student
must appear before the APPC (Academic Performance and Professionalism
Committee).
Requirement to Report Criminal Incident
Students are required to report any interaction with the police resulting in an arrest or
being brought before the criminal justice system within fifteen (15) days of the incident.
This requirement is independent of whether or not there is a conviction involved.
Failure to report any incident will result in action by the APPC for unprofessional
behavior. APPC action may result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal
from the PA Program.
Criminal Background Checks/ Drug Screening
If a felony conviction occurs between the date of submission of the CASPA application
and matriculation into the PA Program, the specific details including: (1) date of
charge(s), (2) type of offense, and (3) disposition of the case, must be reported to the
program director’s office immediately. Any felony convictions that occur subsequent to
matriculation or at any time during your enrollment in the program must also be
reported immediately providing the same information as previously enumerated.
Failure to comply will be grounds for dismissal from the PA Program.
During the clinical phase of the program, students may be required to undergo one or
more national criminal background checks, which may include finger printing. Some
clinical sites used by the PA Program may require additional background checks,
25
fingerprinting, and/or drug screening for students to have practice opportunities at
those institutions. The student may be responsible for these costs.
A criminal record or failure to pass a drug screen may impede clinical training and may
negatively affect a student’s status in the PA Program. By accepting admission to the
program, a student agrees to submit to national criminal background checks as well as
drug screening and to pay any associated expenses.
Medical Records and Patient Confidentiality
Patient confidentiality is a critical value for physician assistants and physician assistant students
and is essential for maintaining the patient-provider relationship and for preserving the trust
that society has placed in the medical profession. PA students are privileged to learn
information that patients share only with healthcare professionals and have opportunities to
participate in some of the most personal moments of patients’ lives. Patients, in turn, trust that
PAs and students will preserve their confidentiality; as a key component of medical
professionalism, PA students must honor this trust.
Students are not to discuss a patient in any manner or situation that would reveal any
information about that patient to any person not directly involved in the patient’s health care.
Students must refrain from discussing patients in public places, (i.e. cafeterias, elevators, etc.)
where conversations may be overheard. Students should remind those who may be
inappropriately discussing patient information, about patient confidentiality.
Students will adhere to ethical principles and use practical reasoning when dealing with patients
at all times. No student should medically treat other PA students, friends, or family members
while a student is in the PA Program.
At times, ensuring patient confidentiality may conflict, or appear to conflict, with other
important values, such as academic freedom and freedom of speech, giving rise to complex
ethical issues. These ethical issues are difficult to navigate, particularly for students who may be
new to clinical environments. In confronting these issues, students are strongly encouraged to
take advantage of the many resources available to them at the MCOM. For example, students
may consult with clinical mentors and attending physicians, PA preceptors and faculty, medical
ethics faculty, and the Office of Student Affairs.
All students must follow Health Insurance and Portability and Accountability Act
(HIPPA) rules when participating in clinical activities at affiliated hospitals and clinics;
HIPAA compliance includes maintaining confidentiality of paper and electronic health
records. When violations of HIPAA by a student are identified by a hospital, clinic,
physician’s office, etc., the violation will be reviewed by the APPC, which will
recommend remediation and and/or sanctions, including the possibility of required
withdrawal or expulsion.
26
Filing a Grievance
9
The University of South Florida System (USF System) is committed to mutual respect
among all constituents of the University community. This commitment includes
students, faculty, staff, and administration alike. In all concerns about fair treatment, we
seek to work together to understand and address those concerns in an informal setting.
As there are several offices designated to address grievances throughout the University,
with specific processes applicable to the MCOM, students should first identify the topic
or substance of a grievance and file the grievance with the appropriate office. The USF
Student Grievance Policy can be found here.
Harassment
10
USF is committed to providing a study and work environment free from unlawful
discrimination and prohibit "unwelcome" or "unwanted" conduct which constitutes
harassment. This policy strictly prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment in the
workplace based on medical condition, race, religion, color, national origin, disability,
marital status, family status, age, sex, sexual orientation or any other basis protected by
federal, state or local law or ordinance or regulation. USF affirms that all employees
have a right to work in an environment free from any type of discrimination and
prohibits any conduct which constitutes sexual harassment under Title VII of the Civil
Rights Act of 1964.
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
9
A3.11, A3.17d
10
A3.11, A3.17g
27
Attendance Guidelines
Attendance is Mandatory. Students will attend all scheduled hours of instruction. All sessions
and participation requirements in didactic courses and Supervised Clinical Practice Experiences
(SCPE) are mandatory. Recognizing that situations arise which require students to miss time
from their course/clinical responsibilities, the procedures presented below will be followed
when absence is necessary.
Consideration will be given for activities such as elected student representation to various
committees, organizations or professional conferences. The PA Program academic or clinical
director will respond to the student’s request in writing. Students who miss scheduled hours are
expected to acquire the same level of competency as other students. Lectures, reading
assignments and work load will not be re-created or offset to accommodate any absences.
Punctuality
Students are expected to be on time for each scheduled class. Students should be seated and
prepared to take notes at the time the lecturer is scheduled to speak and ready to begin. Being
tardy or leaving class early may be equivalent to an absence.
Roll
Roll may be taken at the start of each day of class and may be taken at any time thereafter you
are expected to be in class. Any time roll is taken and you are not present, it will be considered
an absence.
Absences
Didactic Courses - Year 1
Unplanned or Emergency absences for Personal Illness, Family Illness, etc.
• In the event of an illness or emergency necessitating absence from class,
students must notify both the academic director and course instructor.
Notification should be by e-mail or telephone (see specific course syllabus).
• The student must also notify the PA Program office by e-mail or telephone
(paprogram@health.usf.edu or 813-974-8926) to report his/her absenteeism on
the first day of being absent. He/she should indicate if the reason is an
emergency or unexpected illness.
• The student must also complete and submit the Student Absence
Report Form. Specifics on planned and unplanned absences, as well as
unexcused absences, are listed below. The completed Student Absence
Report Form will be kept as part of the student’s record.
• If the student has an unanticipated unplanned absence on the day of an exam,
he/she must contact PA Program office by e-mail or telephone
(paprogra[email protected]sf.edu or 813-974-8926) by 8:30 a.m. on the day of the
exam. When the student returns to school he/she must fill out and sign
the Student Absence Report Form. Documentation for the absence to be
excused (e.g. physician’s note, accident report, etc.) will be at the discretion of
the program director.
28
• Students who miss an examination for any reason are required to contact the PA
Program office (974-8926) prior to returning to class to determine the date and
time of the make-up examination. Dates and times of make-up examinations are
determined by the course directors in consultation with the academic director.
• In general, make-up examinations must be taken within 48 hours upon return
from an unplanned absence. A second unexcused absence for a make-up exam
will require referral to the Academic Performance and Professionalism
Committee (APPC).
Planned Absence
• Absence for attendance at a professional meeting or other educational or
research related activity should be submitted via the Student Absence
Report Form for approval to the academic director at least 3 weeks prior to the
event. Each request for absence will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Personal travel plans should not be considered valid excuses for missing an
exam.
• To receive an excused planned absence for an exam, the student must submit a
completed Student Absence Report from Exam Form to the academic director.
The academic director or designee will make the final determination to grant or
deny the request and will inform the student of the decision.
Supervised Clinical Patient Experiences - Year 2
Attendance is mandatory throughout the SCPE as determined by the clinical preceptor
in accordance with the clinical hour’s guidelines delineated below. Attendance is a
demonstration of professional attitude and behavior. This behavior impacts all members
of the healthcare team, including fellow students and patients. Any absence from the
clerkship may have a direct impact on student performance, the broad-spectrum clinical
experience, evaluation of professionalism, overall grade, and the successful completion
of the clerkship.
The work schedule will be determined by your preceptor. Students will be required to
take call, night, and weekend shifts as designated by the preceptor. Holidays or
university breaks do not apply during the clinical year.
Students are expected to attend all scheduled clerkship didactic conferences, lectures,
workshops, and daily patient rounds. Recognizing that situations arise that require
students to miss time from their lectures/clinical responsibilities, the procedures
presented below will be followed when an unplanned absence is necessary:
• In the event of an illness or emergency necessitating absence from the clinical
rotation, students must notify both the PA Program clinical director and the
clinical preceptor by 9:00 a.m. on the day of the absence. Students should also
contact the PA Program office by e-mail or telephone
29
(paprogra[email protected]sf.edu or 813-974-8926). Students should make every
effort to reach the clinical preceptor and clinical director rather than utilizing
voicemail or email.
• Students are required to complete and submit the Student Absence Report
Form with appropriate documentation supporting the reason for any unplanned
absence(s). The completed Student Absence Report Form will be kept as part of
the student’s record.
• Failure to report an absence the student will be required to make up the time
missed from the clerkship and a 5 point deduction on the clinical preceptor End-
of-Rotation Clinical Performance Evaluation.
• Students are required to submit a written request for approval of any
anticipated absence, to the clinical director, prior to the absence. The clinical
director will communicate with the student regarding details of the anticipated
absence, preceptor notification and preceptor approval. Students should not
seek approval from the preceptor without prior approval by the clinical director
lest this be considered an unexcused absence.
• If a student misses up to five (5) days on any rotation, he/she must discuss with
the preceptor ways to make-up the missed time. If there is no opportunity for
the student to make up the missed days at that clinical site, the student must
discuss make-up time at another clinical site with the clinical director. If there
are no available clerkship site contiguous with the current cycle, the student will
receive a grade of Incomplete until the hours have been made up.
• In the event that a student misses more than five (5) days on any rotation for an
excused absence, they will be required to repeat the rotation.
• Students may be required by some clinical sites to engage in clinical or
educational activities during the evenings and/or weekends.
• If the preceptor or his/her designee is unavailable to work with the student for 2
or more scheduled clinical days (e.g. vacation, scheduled days off, etc.), the
student is required to notify the clinical director so that an alternate assignment
may be made.
Tardiness
If a student arrives to the clinical site 30 minutes late or leaves the clinical site 30
minutes early, he/she is required to notify the clinical preceptor and the clinical director
immediately.
If a student accumulates lateness hours totaling 5 hours this constitutes 1 unexcused
absence. The procedure and policy for unexcused absences will then be applied.
Students are required to return to campus at the completion of each rotation for
academic and professional activities that may include case presentations, End-of-
Rotation Exams, OSCEs, and other designated program endeavors.
30
PA Program Student Hours in Clinical Years
PA Program students are held to the following clinical hour’s guidelines:
• Students are limited to a maximum of 80 duty hours per week including in-house
call, averaged over four weeks.
• Students must be given one day out of seven free from all clinical and
educational responsibilities, averaged over four weeks.
• Students cannot be scheduled for in-house call more than once every three
nights, averaged over four weeks.
• Students may not work more than 28 consecutive hours.
• Students should be given at least ten hours for rest and personal activities
between daily duty periods and after in-house call.
Students, preceptors, and faculty are not permitted to allow/require deviation from the
above rules. Violations should be immediately discussed with the clinical preceptors,
either directly or via the clinical director, program director, and then with the vice dean
of Educational Affairs if not satisfactorily resolved.
Holidays and Religious Observances
All students, faculty and staff at the University of South Florida have a right to expect
that the University will reasonably accommodate their religious observances, practices,
and beliefs. Students are expected to attend classes and take examinations as
determined by the University. The University and PA Program will attempt, at the
beginning of each academic term, to provide written notice of the class schedule and
formal examination periods.
Any student who believes that he/she has been treated unfairly with regard to the
above should contact the program director.
31
Leave of Absence
11
A Leave of Absence is defined as a temporary break in a student’s attendance of five (5)
days or longer.
Guidelines for Leave of Absence
In exceptional circumstances – such as the sudden onset of a serious medical condition
– a leave of absence from the PA Program may be granted by the program director. Due
to the cumulative nature of the didactic material, extended absences during the didactic
phase is not permitted. Students may request a leave of absence and deceleration in the
program for up to one year in length.
All requests must be made in writing. Please note the following: (i) a student who is not
registered after one semester’s absence and has not requested a leave of absence will
be dropped from the program; (ii) a student who has not re-registered with the program
after a leave of absence of one year will be dropped from the program.
The PA Program reserves the right to determine the conditions for re-entry after any
leave of more than one month duration. Coursework, exams, and clinical experiences
missed during any leave must be made-up within a time-frame agreed upon by the
course instructor and the program director before the student may continue in the
program in good standing. Additional tuition may be required to complete the program
after re-entry.
Voluntary
• Voluntary Leaves of Absence must be for a specified period of time with an
expected date of re-enrollment.
• A student in good academic standing, without deficiencies, may request and be
approved for a Leave of Absence for a fixed period of time to conduct research
or as a result of a health problem or other personal circumstances that prevent
concentration on the academic program.
Involuntary
The APPC may recommend that a student be placed on a Leave of Absence if the
student is judged to be capable of completing the PA Program within the allotted
time limits of the PA Program, but has current academic or non-academic
problems that make ongoing enrollment detrimental to the student’s best
interest. If the student disagrees with the recommendation, the procedure for an
appeal will be followed as established in the Appeal of Disciplinary Action or
Dismissal section outlined below.
ARC-PA Standard, fourth edition
11
A3.08
32
Petition for Readmission Following Leave of Absence
• The student must notify the program director and the academic (for Year 1) or
clinical director (for Year 2) of intent to resume enrollment in writing at least one
month prior to return to the PA Program.
• Requests for reinstatement must be made in writing. The student must show
that the problem leading to the withdrawal has been resolved such that success
in this program will follow if the student is reinstated. Reinstatement is also
dependent on the availability of a clinical training site.
• Students who are on a Leave of Absence specified by the APPC must fulfill all
requirements specified in their letter from the APPC prior to return to the PA
Program.
• Students placed on Leave of Absence may maintain such status for a maximum
of one (1) year. In order to return to enrollment, the student must petition
the APPC within the time period allowed. The APPC will consider petitions for
readmission regardless of the reason enrollment was discontinued. When
petitioning to the Committee, the student must submit information that will
support that return to enrollment is justified. This is required regardless of the
reason for leave.
• Petitions for readmission may be considered at any regular or called meeting of
the APPC. The time of readmission will be based upon that which is deemed
most appropriate to the student’s status and schedule by the APPC. Students
may be required to repeat parts of the curriculum that have previously been
successfully completed.
Readmission may be denied if all available seats are filled, even if the student meets all
other qualifications for admission.
33
Withdrawal
12
Students withdrawing from the program must submit a withdrawal letter to both the PA
Program and the MCOM Registrar’s Office, as well as complete any paperwork needed
by either office, and settle any university obligations. USF may refund some portion of
the tuition. For details, see the Refund of Fees policy on the PA Program website and
the Tuition, Fees, and Medical Equipment Requirements section in this handbook.
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
12
A3.17e
34
PA Faculty and Student Learner Compact
Faculty/PA Student Learner Compact
Preparation for a career as a Physician Assistant demands the acquisition of a large fund
of knowledge and a host of special skills. It also demands the strengthening of those
virtues that undergird the provider/patient relationship and that sustain the profession
of medicine as a moral enterprise. This Compact serves both as a pledge and as a
reminder to teachers and learners that their conduct in fulfilling their mutual obligations
is the medium through which the profession inculcates its ethical values.
Violations of Faculty Learner Compact
The reporting of faculty conduct violations, as it relates to students, shall be to the
program director. An alternate site of reporting is through the vice dean for Educational
Affairs. Violations of the standards of conduct by faculty as enumerated in the Faculty
Learner Compact or of University Policies shall be relayed to the Office of Faculty
Affairs for appropriate action.
Mistreatment or Abuse Violations by faculty
13
Reporting of alleged faculty or preceptor abuse violations, as it relates to students, shall
be made to the program director of the PA Program. An alternate site of reporting is
through the academic or clinical director of the PA Program. Further information is
found in the Grievance and Harassment policy. The USF Student Grievance Policy can
be found here.
Guiding Principles
DUTY - Physician Assistant educators have a duty, not only to convey the knowledge and
skills required for delivering the profession’s contemporary standard of care, but also to
inculcate the values and attitudes required for preserving the medical profession’s social
contract across generations.
INTEGRITY - Learning environments conducive to conveying professional values must be
suffused with integrity. Students learn enduring lessons of professionalism by observing
and emulating role models who epitomize authentic professional values and attitudes.
RESPECT - Fundamental to the ethic of the practice of medicine is respect for every
individual. Mutual respect between learners, as novice members of the medical
profession, and their teachers, as experienced and esteemed professionals, is essential
for nurturing that ethic. Given the inherently hierarchical nature of the teacher/learner
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
13
A3.11, A3.12
35
relationship, teachers have a special obligation to ensure that Physician Assistant
students are always treated respectfully.
Commitments of Faculty and Program Administration
• We pledge our utmost effort to ensure that all components of the educational
program for Physician Assistant students are of high quality. As mentors for our
students, we maintain high professional standards in all of our interactions with
patients, colleagues, and staff.
• We respect all students as individuals, without regard to gender, race, national
origin, religion, or sexual orientation. We will not tolerate anyone who manifests
disrespect or who expresses biased attitudes towards any student.
• We pledge that Physician Assistant students will have sufficient time to fulfill
personal and family obligations, to enjoy recreational activities, and to obtain
adequate rest. We monitor the time required to fulfill educational objectives,
including time required for “call” on clinical rotations, to ensure students’ well-
being.
• In nurturing both the intellectual and the personal development of Physician
Assistant students, we celebrate expressions of professional attitudes and
behaviors, as well as achievement of academic excellence.
• We do not tolerate any abuse or exploitation of students.
• We encourage any student who experiences mistreatment or who witnesses
unprofessional behavior to report the facts immediately to appropriate faculty or
staff. We treat all such reports as confidential and do not tolerate reprisals or
retaliations of any kind.
We do not allow students to substitute or function as instructional faculty.
Students with specific prior knowledge, experience and skills may assist faculty in
didactic and laboratory session to share their knowledge and skills, however,
students are not to be the primary instructor or instructor of record for any
component of the curriculum.
14
Students must not substitute for clinical or administrative staff during supervised
clinical practical experiences.
15
Students are not required to provide or solicit clinical sites or preceptors. The PA
Program's clinical director must coordinate clinical sites and preceptors for
program required and elective rotations. Students may make suggestions to
principal faculty for sites and preceptors, but are not required to do so. Student
suggested sites and preceptors will be reviewed, evaluated, and approved for
educational suitability by the program.
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
14
A3.03, A3.05
15
A3.06
36
Commitments of Students
• We pledge our utmost effort to acquire the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and
behaviors required to fulfill all educational objectives established by the faculty.
• We cherish the professional virtues of honesty, compassion, integrity, fidelity,
and dependability.
• We will honor the accomplishments and sacrifices of the faculty who help direct
our learning, and respect the effort of the faculty as they help us become
physicians and colleagues.
• We pledge to respect all faculty members and all students as individuals, without
regard to gender, race, national origin, religion, or sexual orientation.
• As Physician Assistants in training, we embrace the highest standards of the
medical profession and pledge to conduct ourselves accordingly in all of our
interactions with patients, colleagues, and staff.
• In fulfilling our own obligations as professionals, we pledge to assist our fellow
students in meeting their professional obligations, as well.
37
Academic Honesty Guidelines
16
All students are required to abide by the USF Academic Dishonesty and Disruption of
Academic Process Guidelines that have been accepted by the university and are
displayed in detail in the USF Policy on Academic Integrity of Students.
The University of South Florida expects students to be honest in all of their university
coursework. Therefore, students are required to commit themselves to academic
honesty by signing the following statement as part of the admissions process.
"I understand that the University of South Florida expects its students to be honest in all
of their academic work. I agree to adhere to this commitment to academic honesty, and
understand that my failure to comply with this commitment may result in disciplinary
action, up to and including expulsion from the University."
This statement serves to remind students of the obligations they assume as students at
the University of South Florida.
Punishment for the violation of any of the academic honesty guidelines will depend on
the seriousness of the violation.
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
16
B1.05
38
Academic Standards
17
Physician Assistants must demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide
high quality patient care in a variety of clinical settings. In order to achieve this goal, the
faculty and director of each course/SCPE (for simplicity the term course will be inclusive
of courses and SCPEs) define the criteria for acceptable academic performance in that
course. Evaluation of academic performance may include (but is not necessarily limited
to) measuring the student’s knowledge, measuring how the student applies such
knowledge to specific problems, evaluating the judgment a student employs in solving
problems, and assessing the quality of the student’s psychomotor skills, professional
conduct, ethical behavior, and interpersonal relationships with medical colleagues,
patients, and patients’ families.
Students are subject to dismissal from the program if they do not achieve academic
good standing under established rules.
The PA Program is a competency based program. Students are required to complete
each component of the program successfully before progressing on to the next phase.
The minimum passing score is 77% on all didactic exams and on EOR exams, and a grade
of “satisfactory” in professionalism. The minimum passing grade is a C for each course
using a letter system.
Standards for academic performance in each Didactic course and Supervised Clinical
Practice Experience (SCPE) are outlined in each course syllabus. Assessments tools
measure student performance across the competencies of Medical Knowledge, Patient
Care, Interpersonal and Communication Skills, Professionalism, Practice-Based Learning
and Improvement, and Systems-based Practice.
Student progress will be monitored and documented regularly allowing for prompt
identification of apparent deficiencies in knowledge or skills. Students who are
identified through self-referral or through faculty observation as being at risk for failure
will be referred for remediation. Remediation may include tutoring, self-study, reading
assignments, completion of specific tasks, written response to selected exam items, or
referral to the Center for Student Success for counseling.
Testing Policies
• Students are not permitted to talk once entering any testing facility. Do not
communicate with other students in any way during exams or evaluation
sessions.
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
17
A3.17a
39
• Students must turn off cell phones and place all personal belongings (including
watches) in the designated areas in the room. No hooded coats or sweatshirts
allowed
• Once the exam has begun, the proctor will not answer any questions. Students
should remain in their seats at all times until they have finished the examination.
Students may be excused during the examination one at a time in order to use
the rest room.
• The duration of each exam will be determined by the course director.
• Testing areas are subject to video monitoring.
• Upon completing and submitting your exam, please leave the testing area.
• Students are not permitted to disseminate exam content after completion of the
exam.
• Any questions or discrepancies regarding an exam during the academic year
should be addressed in writing, citing the discrepancy and listing references, to
the course director.
• Any concerns with test integrity should be raised within 72 hours of the
examination.
In the event a student has a question or concern regarding an examination question, the
student will address this issue in writing to the faculty member in charge of the
examination. The issue must be made within 2 days of the review of the examination;
emails are an acceptable form of communicating this. Communication through exam
comments is not sufficient.
The student’s question or concern must address a specific issue regarding the
examination question or assignment, such as having multiple correct answers, having no
correct answers, etc. An explanation as to support the student’s argument must be
made using supporting documents and references referring to specifics in the assigned
readings.
The faculty member will consider the student’s challenge and will respond in writing
(email is acceptable) within 3 days as to their decision regarding the question being
challenged.
Evaluation of Courses
Course/instructor evaluations are mandated by the State and program and must be completed
within the time limits set by the program. Course grades will not be released until these
requirements are met. Grades will not be released until 80% of the class has completed the
evaluation.
Note: Evaluation comments should be made in a constructive manner, focused on
improving the quality of the course. Personal attacks are neither useful nor constructive
for the educational goals of any section. Please make an appointment with the
40
academic/clinical director for any concerns that may come up during a course rather
than using the evaluation as a vehicle to express your frustrations.
Didactic Year Grading
Didactic Course Grading Rubric
18
Course Grading
Score
Grade
90-100%
A
80-89%
B
77-79%
C
<77%
F
Incomplete
I
Professionalism Evaluation
Score
Grade
At Expected Level
Pass (Satisfactory)
Below Expected Level
FAIL (Unsatisfactory)
Professionalism Evaluation
• Evaluation submitted by the course instructor
Student Evaluation of Course
• This evaluation MUST be submitted via E*value by the student on the last day of
the course
Final Grade Calculation
• The student MUST achieve a minimum grade of 77% in all performance
assessments AND achieve a passing (satisfactory) grade in professionalism in
order to pass each course
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
18
A3.17a
41
PACKRAT Exam
The Physician Assistant Clinical Knowledge Rating and Assessment Tool (PACKRAT) will
be taken by each student near the end of the didactic and clinical years. The PACKRAT is
modeled after the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE). The
PACKRAT is designed to be a tool for self-evaluation and an indicator of whether the
student has the basic fund of knowledge appropriate to a PA student. There are no
minimum performance requirements associated with the PACKRAT and the PACKRAT
WILL NOT be used as part of the student’s summative evaluation. Students should use
their performance to identify deficiencies in knowledge and develop a plan to address
areas of weakness. The PACKRAT is administered to help our students evaluate their
current knowledge before beginning clinical rotations and in preparation for the PANCE.
Clinical Year Grading
In the clinical year, student performance in SCPEs will be evaluated by the clinical
preceptor for the competencies of medical knowledge, patient care, interpersonal
communication, professionalism, practice-based learning and improvement and
systems-based practice. Each rotation will also include a written examination.
SCPE Grading Rubric
End of Rotation Examination
Score
Grade
90-100%
A
80-89%
B
77-79%
C
<77%
F
Incomplete
I
Clinical Competency Evaluation
Score
Grade
90-100%
A
80-89%
B
77-79%
C
42
<77%
F
Incomplete
I
Professionalism Evaluation
Score
Grade
At Expected Level
Pass (Satisfactory)
Below Expected Level
FAIL (Unsatisfactory)
End-of-Rotation Examination
• Will be administered at 8:00 a.m. on End-of-Rotation Day 1 on campus.
• Comprised of 120 PANCE style, multiple choice questions based on the learning
objectives of the clerkship completed.
• Will follow the NCCPA PANCE topic and task blueprints.
• A grade of “Fail” will be assigned to scores that fall below the minimum passing
score as determined after statistical analysis of the exam scores. If a student
receives a failing grade then the student needs to remediate and retake an
examination.
• Exam results will be available on the morning of End-of-Rotation Day 2.
Clinical Competency Evaluation
• This evaluation MUST be submitted via E*value by the clinical preceptor on the
last day of the clerkship.
Professionalism Evaluation
• Evaluation submitted by the clinical preceptor.
• Submission of the following:
Clinical Procedure Log
• This log MUST be submitted via E*value by the student on the last day of the
clerkship.
Patient Profile Log
43
• This log MUST be submitted via E*value by the student on the last day of the
clerkship.
Student Site Evaluation
• This evaluation MUST be submitted via E*value by the student on the last
day of the clerkship.
Student Self Evaluation
• This evaluation MUST be submitted via E*value by the student on the last day of
the clerkship.
Final Grade Calculation
• The student MUST achieve a minimum grade of 77% in each of the following
clerkship performance assessments AND achieve a passing (satisfactory) grade in
professionalism in order to pass the clerkship:
o End-of-Rotation Exams
o Clinical Competency Evaluation
Summative Evaluation
The PA Program conducts a comprehensive Summative Evaluation of all students within
the last four months of the program. The Summative Evaluation assesses the student’s
command of material from both the didactic and clinical components of the program’s
curriculum. The Summative Evaluation is intended to measure whether the student has
attained the necessary medical knowledge, interpersonal and communication skills,
patient care skills, and level of professionalism appropriate to enter clinical practice as a
PA.
Components of the Summative Evaluation include:
• Board-style multiple-choice examination
• Comprehensive OSCE
• The Physician Assistant Competencies: A Self Evaluation Tool.
Students must successfully pass the examination and OSCE with a minimum grade of
77% and complete and review the self-evaluation tool with their advisor in order to
progress to graduation. Failure to achieve a passing grade on the summative multiple
choice examination and/or OSCE will require referral to the APPC and repeat of the
failed component(s) before the end of the ninth and final clinical rotation. Failure of this
repeat summative OSCE will result in referral to the APPC for a decision regarding the
need for remediation, deceleration, or dismissal from the program. For any area where
the self-evaluation is assessed as “needs improvement”, the advisor and student will
45
Course Grade Appeal Process
Basis for Appeal
A student may appeal an exam or course grade if the student has evidence that the
grade was assigned in an erroneous manner. This is not a process for appeal of
established departmental grading policies. The following procedure provides guidelines
for the appeal process. All persons concerned with this process should make every
attempt to adhere to the time schedule outlined in the following description of the
appeal process.
Appeal to the Faculty Member for Review of the Assigned Grade
Within one (1) week after the receipt of the grade, the student may appeal in writing to
the responsible faculty member any assigned grade that they dispute. The faculty
member will review the course grading guidelines with the student to ensure that the
process is understood and has been followed. If it is found that the assigned grade is
incorrect in the judgment of the faculty member, he/she will initiate the appropriate
change. If the change is made at this point, the matter is concluded. The faculty member
will respond in writing to the student within seven (7) school days of the student’s
request for review.
Note: All actions related to the appeals process are expected to be taken within two (2)
weeks of receipt; however, in instances where holidays or vacation intervene, action
must be taken within ten (10) weekdays on which classes are held.
If the faculty member is no longer with the University, the student shall confer with the
academic director who will then make every effort to receive written input concerning
the matter from the former faculty member. If it is not possible to receive information
from the former faculty member regarding the grade, then the student may appeal the
grade as described below and the course director or academic director will represent
the interests of the faculty member who issued the grade.
Appeal to the Program Director
If the question of the assigned grade cannot be resolved between the student and the
faculty member, the student may appeal in writing to the PA Program director. This
appeal must be made within seven (7) school days following the initial faculty member
review. The student shall include all relevant information relating to the appeal with the
written appeal. After receiving such an appeal in writing from the student, the program
director shall review with the faculty member the substance of the student’s appeal and
seek to determine its validity.
If it is determined that the assigned grade is, in his/her judgment, inappropriate, the
program director should recommend to the faculty member that the grade be changed.
The faculty member may or may not concur with the recommendation.
46
The program director will notify the student in writing, within seven (7) school days of
receipt of the appeal, whether or not the assigned grade will be changed by the faculty
member. The decision of the program director is final.
47
Promotion, Graduation, Deceleration, Dismissal, and Due Process/Appeals
20
Academic Performance and Professionalism Committee (APPC)
Purpose
The APPC shall review the academic and clinical performance of each PA Program
student at least once during each program year. This Committee shall recommend the
appropriate action to be taken for each student, including the promotion to the clinical
year; graduation from the program; remediation, deceleration and dismissal from the
program and readmission to the program. Specific students to be discussed are those
who have failed a course(s), those who are performing at less than satisfactory levels
after an interim evaluation, and those who have received a near or failing grade. Any
other student will be discussed at the request of the academic/clinical director or
instructional faculty member. An attempt will be made to identify students in minor as
well as major difficulty (academic or professional) in concert with the goal of providing
help for those in need.
Responsibilities
Each student will be considered individually with emphasis upon quality of performance.
The committee may recommend continued pursuit of studies for any student who is
justifiably assumed capable of completing the PA Program requirements within the
program time limits.
The committee will review the progress of all students at least once yearly.
The committee will recommend:
• Promotion of a student from one year’s study to the next
• Certification of a student as qualified to graduate
• Placement of a student, when necessary, on a leave of absence
• Disciplinary action for unethical and/or non-professional behavior or other
misconduct when required
• Remediation as might arise during the course of the educational program
• Deceleration or dismissal of a student from the PA Program for academic or
other reasons
• Readmission to the PA Program after a leave of absence
Patterns of Concern:
Although a student may have passing grades in all courses, but when viewed as a whole,
the record shows a pattern of concern, that student will be given a written warning or
be placed on academic probation with a remediation plan.
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
20
A2.05d, A2.05f, A3.17a, A3.17c, A3.17e, A3.17f
48
Student conduct that may indicate a pattern of concern include:
• Failure of two (2) or more exams in one course
• Failure of three (3) or more exams across all courses in a single term
• Receiving a grade of F on a Preceptor Evaluation of a student
• Failure of an End-of-Rotation (EOR) Examination
• Cumulative GPA below 3.0
• Consistent marginal passing scores/grades
• Failure to adhere to professional standards
The committee has the authority to take action in the following areas:
• The formulation of a remediation program (the recommendations of the
respective academic/clinical director and course director concerning remediation
will be the primary consideration for requirements, subject to review by the
committee).
o These programs may include, but are not limited to:
Requiring a student to be re-examined or re-evaluated in a
course, with or without a period of remediation
Requiring a student to receive academic tutoring
Requiring a student to repeat all or part of a year’s work or longer
if necessary
Placing a student on academic probation if they are not In Good
Standing (link to graduate program catalog)
• Reviewing all petitions for readmission following a committee recommended
leave of absence, and recommending whether or not the student may resume
medical studies. This must be documented in a letter to the student from the
chair of the APPC.
• Reviewing and making recommendations concerning a suitable course of study
following a committee recommended leave of absence.
• Other actions referred to the committee for an individual student.
Confidentiality
Proceedings of the APPC are confidential. Except as specified in this handbook, the
meetings will be closed to persons other than University representatives authorized by
the program director.
Committee Process
The program director, or designee, will serve as chair of the APPC for regular and called
meetings.
A quorum for any regular or called meetings of the APPC shall be defined as more than
half of the voting members.
49
All actions of the APPC will require a simple majority of those in attendance. In case of a
tie vote, the committee chair will cast the deciding vote.
50
Advancement of Students with Satisfactory Performance
21
Promotion from the academic to the clinical year and graduation from the PA Program
are based on the student’s mastery of essential competencies, academic performance
as well as readiness to assume a professional role. While grades are important, the
decisions for promotion and graduation are based on the composite picture of academic
performance as well as professional growth and development. A student may be
dismissed from the program if they have failed to demonstrate an attitude of
professionalism or if the APPC do not believe the student is prepared to assume patient
care responsibilities.
The following criteria will be used by the APPC as the basis for promoting academic year
PA students to the clinical year and for recommending clinical PA students for
graduation from the Program. Students who fail to meet all advancement or graduation
criteria may be either dismissed from the PA Program or decelerated.
The following criteria are requirements for advancement from year 1 to year 2 of the
PA program:
22
• Achieve a passing grade of C or better in all Year 1 didactic courses to be
recommended for advancement to year two.
• Fulfill all requirements established by the faculty of each course within the
didactic year.
• Be In Good Standing as defined by the USF Regulation 3.009 – Graduate Degree
Requirements:
o Maintain an overall minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 (on a
4.00 scale) in all courses taken as a graduate student, and
o Maintain an overall minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 (on a
4.00 scale) in all courses taken in each of the student's degree-seeking
programs.
o Only courses with grades of “C” (2.00) or better will be accepted toward a
graduate degree; no grade of C- or below will be accepted. Students must
meet the requirements to be in good standing to graduate. All "I"
(incomplete) and "M" (missing) grades must be cleared for graduation to
be certified.
• Satisfactory demonstration of Professionalism. Professionalism is one of the core
competencies of a physician assistant considered equally important to the
academic development of students and practicing PAs as medical knowledge,
interpersonal skills, communication skills, patient care, and practice- based
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
21
A3.17a, A3.17b, A3.17c, A3.17f
22
Updated 01/30/2017
51
learning/improvement, and systems-based practice. A student who has failed to
demonstrate an attitude of professionalism or is not prepared to assume patient
care responsibilities based on faculty and/or APPC evaluations, may be dismissed
from the PA Program at any time prior to promotion or graduation.
Requirements for Graduation
23
The following criteria are requirements for graduation from the PA program:
24
• Fulfill each of the requirements for advancement outlined above.
• Achieve a passing grade of C or better in all courses and SCPEs.
• Fulfill all requirements established by the faculty of each course within the
clinical year.
• Successfully completed the program’s summative evaluation.
• Be In Good Standing as defined by the USF Regulation 3.009 – Graduate Degree
Requirements:
o Maintain an overall minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 (on a
4.00 scale) in all courses taken as a graduate student, and
o Maintain an overall minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 (on a
4.00 scale) in all courses taken in each of the student's degree-seeking
programs.
o Only courses with grades of “C” (2.00) or better will be accepted toward a
graduate degree; no grade of C- or below will be accepted. Students must
meet the requirements to be in good standing to graduate. All "I"
(incomplete) and "M" (missing) grades must be cleared for graduation to
be certified.
• Satisfactory demonstration of Professionalism. Professionalism is one of the core
competencies of a physician assistant considered equally important to the
academic development of students and practicing PAs as medical knowledge,
interpersonal skills, communication skills, patient care, and practice- based
learning/improvement, and systems-based practice. A student who has failed to
demonstrate an attitude of professionalism or is not prepared to assume patient
care responsibilities based on faculty and/or APPC evaluations, may be dismissed
from the PA Program at any time prior to promotion or graduation.
• In addition, the student must have made the appropriate arrangements to
discharge all financial obligations to the university. The only exception is the
repayment of loans that have a specified maturity date.
23
A3.17c
24
Updated 01/30/2017
52
Referrals to Counseling, Tutorial, and Study Skills Service
25
The APPC may recommend a student to receive tutoring, advising or professional
referral for a variety of problems (e.g. emotional, addictive or psychiatric disorders). If a
student is directed to arrange for such services, but does not do so, the APPC may
evaluate the student’s professional attitudes. If a student is directed to seek these
referral services, the student has a choice of choosing internal or external resources.
Verification that the student has utilized these referral services may be required. In
addition, the Committee may require that the student have his/her counselor/physician
submit information and/or recommendation to the committee chair relating to the
student’s academic program.
Remediation
26
The remediation process is designed to help faculty identify and assist students who
may experience academic or professional difficulty. The process is proactive, with the
goal of identifying at risk students as early as possible. The PA Program will use the
following processes to identify and remediate students deemed at risk.
• Identification
o The student is expected to be proactive and notify the instructor, course
director or faculty if there are knowledge deficits.
o The instructor, course director, small group leader, preceptor, faculty
adviser, or other faculty identifies the at-risk student through weekly
faculty reports, exam grades, and advisory sessions.
• Evaluation and Assessment
o Identified students will be referred to their faculty adviser for assessment
of root causes. Referrals to campus assistance programs may be
instituted (Student Health Services, HELPS, Tutoring and Learning
Services, Student Academic Services, or other practitioners).
• Plan Development
o The APPC, faculty adviser, student, and any other parties will design a
remediation plan. Clear expectations will be documented and a contract
for remediation developed. The program director will then review the
contract with the faculty adviser and student, placing the contract in the
student’s program file. Depending on the action needed, a time line will
be initiated for review of student progress.
• Plan Implementation
o The faculty Adviser and student will receive a copy of the contract and
begin remediation.
o The student will be informed of all available resources for remediation.
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
25
A3.10
26
A2.05f, C3.03
53
• Plan Evaluation
o Depending upon the remediation needed, an evaluation instrument may
be prepared to assess the student’s progress. The academic director and
the faculty adviser may collaborate to design an appropriate tool to
assess progress. Evidence of compliance of mastery of remediated
knowledge deficit will be placed in the student file with the contract.
Didactic year
For the didactic year, the course specific remediation policy is as follows:
27
If a student scores <77% on a test, it is considered a failing grade for the examination. All
students will be required to remediate exam failures (grades below 77%). The goal of
this policy is to help the student identify and master the material, not to improve the
numerical grade.
The course director will be responsible for coordinating the remediation plan for the
particular exam. The student will meet with the course director to review strengths and
weaknesses. The student will be offered opportunities for additional instruction
outlined by the course director. The student will then repeat the failed examination
within one week after the original examination.
A student may only repeat an examination once. After successful remediation, the exam
score may be adjusted to a maximum of 77% at the discretion of the course director. If a
passing grade on the repeat attempt is not achieved, the higher of the two grades is
awarded. Failing grades on two examinations after appropriate make up opportunities is
considered a serious deficiency of knowledge and critical thinking skills. In such a case,
the student will meet with course director and a formal academic remediation plan will
be designed and implemented. This plan must be reviewed and approved by the
program’s Academic Performance and Professionalism Committee (APPC).
If any student is identified as unable to attain and demonstrate the expected learning
outcomes and competencies to successfully pass a course through self-identification,
instructor referral, or achieving a failing grade in the course, the student will meet with
course director and a formal academic remediation plan will be designed and
implemented. This plan must be reviewed and approved by the program’s Academic
Performance and Professionalism Committee (APPC).
Each didactic course will also include a professionalism evaluation. An unsatisfactory
grade on any professionalism evaluation will result in referral to the APPC for review
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
27
A3.17f
54
and recommendations regarding remediation plan, deceleration, or dismissal from the
program.
28
Clinical Medicine courses I, II, III
The Clinical Medicine sequence is divided into separate clinical modules. Each module
has its own syllabus and functions as an individual course with the same grading rubric
as outlined for other didactic courses. Course specific remediation for these modules
follows the same policy as described above for other didactic courses. Failing grades on
two examinations after appropriate make up opportunities is considered a serious
deficiency of knowledge and critical thinking skills.
If the student receives failing grades on two examinations, the student will meet with
course director and a formal academic remediation plan will be designed and
implemented. This plan must be reviewed and approved by the program’s Academic
Performance and Professionalism Committee (APPC).
In cases where a clinical module includes only a single examination, a passing grade on
the examination is required to pass the module. The student will repeat the failed
examination one week after the original examination. A student may repeat an
examination twice. The highest score awarded on the repeat examination is 77%. A
failing grade after two repeat exam attempts is considered a serious deficiency of
knowledge and critical thinking skills and will require a formal remediation plan as
described above.
If any student is identified as unable to attain and demonstrate the expected learning
outcomes and competencies to successfully pass a course through self-identification,
instructor referral, or achieving a failing grade in the course, the student will meet with
course director and a formal academic remediation plan will be designed and
implemented. This plan must be reviewed and approved by the program’s Academic
Performance and Professionalism Committee (APPC).
Each Clinical Medicine module will also include a professionalism evaluation. A failing
grade on any professionalism evaluation will result in referral to the APPC for review
and recommendations regarding remediation plan, deceleration, or dismissal from the
program.
29
Supervised Clinical Practice Experience Remediation
Students must obtain a grade of C or better on the written examination and overall
competency assessment and a passing grade in professionalism pass each SCPE. If any
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
28
A3.17f
29
A3.17f
55
student is identified as unable to attain and demonstrate the expected learning
outcomes and competencies to successfully pass a SCPE through self-identification,
instructor referral, or achieving a failing grade in the course, the student will meet with
preceptor and clinical director and a formal academic remediation plan will be designed
and implemented. Typically, this remediation plan will require repeating the required
SCPE. Repeating a SCPE may be scheduled at the end of the clinical year, and graduation
may be delayed. This plan must be reviewed and approved by the program’s Academic
Performance and Professionalism Committee (APPC).
All remediation plans are reviewed, approved, or modified by the APPC and the formal
remediation plan delivered to and signed by the student and their academic advisor and
placed in the student file in the Registrar’s office. Remediation plans include
identification of the faculty and or academic support personnel who will supervise and
assist in the student’s remediation.
When the required remediation is completed, the APPC delivers a completion letter to
the student and academic advisor which is placed in the student file in the Registrar’s
office.
Deceleration
30
If a student fails a didactic course after attempted remediation, or if a student does not
meet the program requirements for advancement, the student’s file will be viewed as a
whole by the APPC. If it is believed that the student will succeed in the future, the
student may be decelerated and allowed to repeat the didactic year.
If a student fails a SCPE after attempted remediation or fails to meet the program
requirements for graduation, the student’s file will be viewed as a whole by the APPC. If
it is believed that the student will succeed in the future, the student may be decelerated
and allowed to repeat the clinical year.
A student may repeat only one year while in the program.
Procedures for reconsideration of an APPC deceleration decision or appeal to the
MCOM Academic Performance Review Committee PA Sub-Committee (APRC-PASC) are
found in the next section of this handbook.
Dismissal
31
If a student fails remediation or fails to meet advancement or graduation requirements,
the student’s file will be viewed as a whole by the APPC. If it is believed that the student
will not succeed in the future, the student will be dismissed from the program.
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
30
A3.17f
31
A3.17e
56
Additional reasons for dismissal from the program include, but are not limited to,
academic dishonesty, unprofessional conduct, unsatisfactory attendance in classes or
clinical assignments, positive drug testing, and inability to pass a background check.
Each case will be investigated and will be based on objective findings.
Procedures for reconsideration of an APPC dismissal decision or appeal to the MCOM
Academic Performance Review Committee PA Sub-Committee (APRC-PASC) are found in
the next section of this handbook.
57
Reconsideration to the Academic Performance and Professionalism Committee (APPC)
Decisions of the APPC regarding remediation, deceleration or dismissal of a student may
be reconsidered by the APPC upon submission of a petition from the student for
reconsideration of the action taken. The petition must be received in writing within ten
(10) school days following the date the student was informed of the decision. Petition
for reconsideration should be submitted to the program director. The student must
appear before the APPC at the reconsideration hearing.
The hearing will address evidence of the student’s performance or professional
behavior. The student must be present for the reconsideration and may be
accompanied by a person or persons of the student’s choice to provide support and
counsel to the student. The person(s) may not act as the student’s attorney.
Alternatively, the student may request that another faculty member, who is not a
member of the APPC, serve as their advocate. That individual will be present at the
Committee meeting only while the student is present. Immediately following the
hearing, the APPC will decide upon a specific recommendation.
Recommendations of the APPC are final in all decisions except cases where deceleration
or dismissal has been recommended.
If the decision is to uphold a previous decision, the recommendation will be forwarded
to the program director. The committee shall inform the program director (or a
designee) of the vote and present a report of discussions leading to the decision at the
earliest time possible and no more than ten (10) school days after the decision has been
made.
Appeal to the MCOM Academic Performance Review Committee PA Sub-Committee
(APRC-PASC)
An appeal of an APPC decision regarding deceleration or dismissal may be made by the
student to the MCOM Academic Performance Review Committee PA Sub-Committee
(APRC-PASC). The request must be received in writing within ten (10) school days
following the date the student was informed of the APPC decision. Requests to appear
before the APRC-PASC should be submitted to the PA Program Director.
The appeal will address evidence of the student’s performance or professional behavior.
The student has the right to be present for the appeal and may be accompanied by a
person or persons of the student’s choice to provide support and counsel to the
student. The person(s) may not act as the student’s attorney. Alternatively, the student
may request that another faculty member, who is not a member of the APRC-PASC,
serve as their advocate. That individual will be present at the Committee meeting only
while the student is present. Immediately following the hearing, the APRC-PASC will
decide upon a specific recommendation.
58
Recommendations of the APRC-PASC are final in all decisions except cases where
dismissal has been recommended.
If the decision is to uphold a previous dismissal or deceleration decision, the
recommendation will be forwarded to the PA Program director. The committee shall
inform the program director (or a designee) of the vote and present a report of
discussions leading to the decision at the earliest time possible and no more than ten
(10) school days after the decision has been made.
Appeal to the Dean of the Morsani College of Medicine
An appeal of the APRC-PASC decision may be made to the MCOM dean. The request
must be received in writing within ten (10) school days following the date the student
was informed of the APRC-PASC decision. Requests to appear before the MCOM dean
should be submitted directly to the dean’s office.
The hearing will address evidence of the student’s performance or professional
behavior. The student will be required to be present for the appeal and may be
accompanied by a person or persons of the student’s choice to provide support and
counsel to the student. The person(s) may not act as the student’s attorney.
Alternatively, the student may request that another faculty member serve as their
advocate. That individual will be present only while the student is present. Immediately
following the hearing, the dean will decide upon a specific recommendation.
Recommendations of the dean are final in all decisions.
If the decision is to uphold a previous dismissal decision, the recommendation will be
forwarded to the PA Program director. The dean shall inform the program director (or a
designee) of the decision and present a report of discussions leading to the decision at
the earliest time possible and no more than ten (10) school days after the decision has
been made.
59
Student Health and Disability Services
Enrolled Students with Disabilities
32
The PA Program complies with provisions specified in the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA). All students with documented disabilities will be afforded appropriate
accommodations as determined by the USF Students with Disability Services. The
approval must be coordinated by the academic and clinical affairs directors based upon
recommendation from the Office of Students with Disability Services (SDS [Deborah
McCarthy, Director, SVC1133, 813-974-4309]).
Accepted students who have disabilities will be expected to achieve a comparable level
of competency to that required of other students for progression and graduation.
The process for requesting appropriate accommodations are outlined in USF Policy
Number 0-108 and summarized below:
Enrolled Students and Students with Disabilities Services:
a. Students with disabilities who require reasonable accommodation in order to meet
the academic requirements of the USF System or to participate in activities or services
must request an accommodation in writing from the students’ campus office of
Students with Disabilities Services (SDS). Such requests must be accompanied by
documentation of disability and an explanation of any documentation related to the
need for the particular accommodation requested. SDS is responsible for approval of
submitted documentation.
b. The SDS office may request that a student submit any additional documentation of
disability or need for accommodation necessary to permit the USF System to make a
decision on the request.
c. If disability and need for accommodation are adequately shown and the provision of
such accommodation would not fundamentally alter the academic program, the SDS
office will discuss the provision of these accommodations with other appropriate USF
System representatives (e.g. the faculty member who teaches the course for which the
student requests accommodation) and, if appropriate, will offer the student a
reasonable accommodation.
d. Denied accommodation requests may be appealed in writing by a student to the SDS
Director, or designee. Such appeals must be filed within ten (10) calendar days of the
student’s receipt of the denial of accommodation request.
33
ARC-PA Standard, fourth edition
32
A3.08
33
Updated 01/12/2017
60
USF Policy Number 0-108:
USF Public/Employees/Students Disability and Accommodations policy
34
Student Health
As in all institutions, student health is the ultimate responsibility of the individual
student. All students are required to have health insurance throughout their enrollment
in the PA Program. Each student is strongly encouraged to carry disability insurance.
Currently, the PA Program does not have a group policy available; therefore, students
are encouraged to explore this option through their own insurance carrier or through
the American Academy of Physician Assistants’ insurance provider.
During the orientation process students are counseled about appropriate avenues for
receiving medical care. Available options include continued care by the student’s
personal physician, the University Student Health Center or the USF Physicians Group.
Students must have health insurance in effect at all times during enrollment at PA
Program. In addition to obtaining health insurance through the Affordable Care Act's
Marketplace, basic health insurance policies are available on the USF Student Health
Services website for students who do not currently have health insurance. Certification
of current health insurance is required for each year of enrollment.
Note: Student health records are confidential and are not accessible to or reviewed by
any faculty, staff or student. Only immunization and tuberculosis screening results
that are maintained in the Medical Health Administration office can be obtained upon
receipt signed release from the student.
35
PA Program principal faculty, the program director and the medical director must not
participate a health care providers for students in the program, except in an
emergency situation.
36
Student Health Services
37
As a student, one of the university base fees that you pay for is a "health fee." This
fee health fee covers primary care services offered at the Student Health Center; third
party insurance information is collected and is used to cover the cost of any additional
charges such as procedures, treatments, medications or labs that take place during the
course of the visit. Subspecialty services such as dermatology, nutrition, PT, etc. are
associated with small charges for students with no insurance and those with insurance
will have their insurance processed for these services.
34
Updated 01/05/2017
ARC-PA Standard, fourth edition
35
A3.21
36
A3.09
37
A1.05
61
Additionally, PA students may be seen by our medical staff at the USF Health Morsani
Center for Advanced Healthcare. Physician fees incurred at the Center by students that
are not covered by an insurance payment will be billed to the student. Students will be
billed for the cost of supplies, lab work sent outside of the Center, and for elective
procedures. If the student’s private insurance company does not cover the cost the
student is responsible for payment. This practice also applies to the student’s spouse
and children.
An appointment with a USF Physicians Group physician can be arranged by calling the
appointment line at 974-2201. Students should identify themselves as PA students when
requesting an appointment. (There are a sufficient number of providers to ensure that
students will not need to be seen by a provider who is also responsible for grading the
student – thus avoiding any conflict of interest issues. If students have an emergent
medical problem, follow the emergency procedures in your health insurance policy.)
Chemical Dependency
Students who are identified as having a chemical dependency may be referred to the
HELPS Program for consultation and to the Florida Professional Resources Network
(PRN). Successful entry into and treatment via this program will result in no additional
action against the student. Should a student be dismissed by the PRN for non-
compliance, action will be referred to the APPC, and may result in dismissal from the PA
Program.
Pre-matriculation Health Requirements
Prior to matriculation all students are required to provide the following to the Medical
Health Administration Office for review:
1. Students must undergo a physical examination conducted by the student’s
personal physician prior to starting school. Complete the Communicable Disease
Prevention Certification & Physical Examination Verification Form and return it
to the Medical Health Administration Office. Matriculating students will be
informed of the deadline in which this form is due
2. Students must provide documented evidence of immunity to specified
communicable diseases listed on the Communicable Disease Prevention
Certification & Physical Examination Verification Form. All documentation must
be in English.
Immunizations
38
ARC-PA Standard, fourth edition
38
A3.07
62
Annual Requirements are provided through Medical Health Administration (MHA) based
on standards set by the Center for Disease Control (CDC).
All students must complete the following requirements prior to matriculation (April 1st
of each cohort):
• TUBERCULOSIS (TB) Screening: To meet the USF requirement, you must submit
documentation of ONE of the following: 1. Results of NEGATIVE “Two-Step” TB
Skin Testing (TST/PPD). This screening requires 2 separate TB skin tests
administered at least one week apart but within 12 months of each other. The
last TST must be within 6 months of your start date. 2. Lab Copy showing a
“NEGATIVE” Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) blood test (QFT or T-Spot)
within 6 months of start date (accepted in lieu of the “Two-Step” TST). 3.
Individuals with a history of a POSITIVE TB skin test or IGRA blood test must
submit both of the following: a. Verification of a NEGATIVE Chest X-ray within 12
months of start date to the USF MCOM and b. A current NEGATIVE Screening
Questionnaire. A Questionnaire can be found and downloaded from the USF
Medical Health Administration website at:
http://hsc.usf.edu/medicine/internalmedicine/infectious/medicalhealthadmin
/Forms.htm
• RUBELLA (German measles): Serologic documentation of a positive Rubella
immune titer (IgG Blood Test) OR immunization with at least two doses of live
Rubella or two MMR vaccines after 01/01/1980.
• MEASLES (RUBEOLA): Serologic documentation of a positive Rubeola immune
titer OR immunization with two doses of live Rubeola or two MMR vaccines
administered after 12 months of age and separated by 28 days or more after
01/01/1980.
• MUMPS: Serologic documentation of a positive Mumps immune titer OR
immunization with at least two doses of live Mumps or two MMR vaccines after
01/01/1980.
• VARICELLA (Chicken Pox): Serologic documentation of a positive Varicella titer
OR two Varicella immunizations (given 4 to 8 weeks apart). This requirement is
satisfied only by a positive titer (IgG Blood Test) or the vaccine series. A history
of chicken pox does not satisfy this requirement.
• HEPATITS B Vaccine Series: Documentation of complete Hepatitis B vaccine
series of 3 injections.
• HEPATITIS B “POSITIVE” QUANTITATIVE SURFACE ANTIBODY TITER (Blood Test):
Serologic documentation of a Positive (QUANTITATIVE) Hepatitis B surface
antibody titer that verifies IMMUNITY to the Hepatitis B Virus. The TITER is
required in addition to completion of the vaccination series. The results should
be reported as “POSITIVE” or as a number. “REACTIVE” results will NOT be
accepted. If the antibody titer is Negative, will need to have dose #4 and then a
titer 30 day after the #4 vaccine dose.
63
• Adacel™or BOOSTRIX® Vaccine Booster: Documentation of an Adult
TETANUS/diphtheria/acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine booster is required. Tdap
was licensed in June, 2005 for use as a single dose booster vaccination (i.e. not
for subsequent booster doses). The current CDC recommendation states
“Healthcare personnel, regardless of age, should receive a single dose of Tdap as
soon as feasible if they have not previously received Tdap and regardless of the
time since last Td dose”.
• MENINGOCOCCAL Vaccination: Documentation of immunization with one dose
of Meningococcal vaccine after 16th birthday OR a completed and signed USF
Student Health Services Immunization Health History Form (Block 3, checkbox,
signature) declining receipt of the Meningitis vaccine. The form is available at:
http://www.usf.edu/student-affairs/student-health-
services/documents/mandatory-imm-form-122014.pdf
** ANNUAL TB Screening will be required during your entire program. This
Screening will be provided at no cost to you through the Medical Health
Administration (MHA) office.
** INFLUENZA VACCINATION will be required each year. This vaccine will be
provided for you at no cost beginning in October of each year through the USF
Medical Clinic/Medical Health Administration (MHA) office.
Note: Several affiliated hospitals require drug and alcohol screening with and
without advanced notice.
Updated 10/12/16
64
Student Health during Patient Care
Blood-borne Pathogen Exposures and Other Infectious Exposures to Communicable
Diseases
39
Policies and procedures concerning blood-borne pathogen exposures and exposures
to communicable diseases (e.g. tuberculosis, chicken pox) are in place at USF
MCOM and at each of the major clinical teaching facilities. During orientation of the
program, as well as before beginning in a clinical facility, an overview of procedures is
presented. Try to familiarize yourself with the policies and procedures of each clinical
facility and carefully comply with all requirements in case you are injured or exposed to
communicable disease.
All needle sticks and other exposures to blood or other potentially infectious body fluids
should be immediately reported to your preceptor, PA Program clinical director and to
the employee health nurse at the facility where the incident occurs. For information
about “What to do – Who to call – Where to go” after an injury is available here.
The employee health nurses at affiliated hospitals are provided to you before entering
the clinical facility.
Health Requirements for Patient Contact:
TB Screening:
• First year PA students submit immunization and screening documentation to
MHA prior to orientation as well as being screened each year by the MHA office
N-95 Fit Testing
• First-year PA students undergo Fit Testing during the first week of school by
MHA and Environmental Health & Safety
Blood-borne Pathogen Education/Training
• First-year PA students undergo Blood borne Pathogen Education/Training during
the first week of school by MHA and Environmental Health & Safety
• Done at the beginning of the clinical year for PA students
Influenza Vaccine
• This vaccine will be provided for you at no cost beginning in October of each year
through the USF Medical Clinic/Medical Health Administration (MHA) office
ARC-PA Standard, fourth edition
39
A3.08
65
Student Exposures at the USF Affiliated Practice Sites:
The Employee Health Departments at the affiliated practice sites will evaluate students
who report significant exposures to blood/body fluids and communicable diseases while
on rotation. Significant exposures include needle sticks, sharp injuries, non-intact
skin, and mucous membrane exposures to blood, body fluids or exposures to airborne
communicable diseases.
Exposures should be handled as follows:
• The student should report the exposure to his/her instructor immediately.
• The student fills out the employee section of the affiliated site’s Employee
Incident Report.
• The instructor fills out the supervisor section of the Employee Incident Report.
• The student takes the completed incident report to Employee Health as soon as
possible after the exposure. The student should bring the following information
on the source patient: name, medical record number, diagnosis, and room
number.
• Student reporting a needle stick/sharp injury from a patient must be evaluated
within one to two hours for appropriate prophylaxis. In these cases, if Employee
Health is closed, the student should contact the site’s nursing supervisor.
• The student will be provided with the following evaluation:
• First aid treatment as necessary.
• Investigation of the source patient and HIV and hepatitis tests as necessary.
• Baseline lab work. Follow-up tests at 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months will be
offered. There will be no charge for the required lab tests.
• Employee Health will provide the appropriate prophylaxis.
Communicable Illness
Students with an illness or medical condition that may be communicable to patients or staff
should not be allowed patient contact. If the student is unsure whether he/she should be in
patient contact areas, please ask the clinical director of the PA Program. If necessary, the
student will be evaluated by staff at Employee Health to determine work status. Persons with
the following medical conditions should not be allowed patient contact without a medical
clearance:
1. Active chicken pox, measles, German measles, herpes zoster (shingles), hepatitis
A, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, tuberculosis
2. Diarrhea lasting over three days or accompanied by fever or bloody stools
3. Conjunctivitis
4. Group A streptococcal disease (e.g. strep throat) until 24 hours of treatment
received
5. Draining or infected skin lesions
6. Oral herpes with draining lesions
66
Mistreatment and Abuse
40
Student Mistreatment, Harassment, or Abuse
Students are encouraged to discuss any and all issues of physical, emotional,
psychological or sexual abuse without fear of retribution. The student may contact any
faculty or staff member with whom he/she feels comfortable which may include the PA
Program director, clinical director, academic director, or any principal faculty. In
addition, the student may directly contact the USF Center for Victim Advocacy &
Violence Prevention. The USF Student Grievance Policy can be found here.
Sexual Harassment and Title IX
41
It is the goal of USF, USF MCOM, and the PA Program to create and maintain a work and
study environment that is positive and free of discrimination. In order to help provide
such an environment, faculty, staff, and students must be aware that sexual harassment
is sex discrimination, and is unacceptable conduct that will not be tolerated at the
university as defined in USF policy 0-008, Diversity and Equal Opportunity: Sexual
Harassment. Sexual harassment is defined as conduct of a sexual nature or with sexual
implications, which interferes with an employee’s or student’s status or performance by
creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or educational environment. This
conduct may include, but is not limited to the following:
Inappropriate touching; the display of sexually explicit or suggestive materials; use of
sexually explicit or suggestive language or gestures; and subtle pressure for sexual
activity, as well as demands for sexual favors or physical assault. Sexual harassment is a
serious form of abuse.
• In addition to being a violation of state and federal laws, behavior involving
unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical
conduct of a sexual nature is incompatible with faculty, staff, and student status
in the PA Program.
• Dating current teaching faculty (i.e. physicians, residents, teaching assistants, PA
faculty, etc.) is highly discouraged. This can be viewed as a form of sexual
harassment. See the USF policy regarding consensual relationships.
• Further information regarding sexual harassment policies is outlined in the USF
“Sexual Harassment” policy 0-008, Diversity and Equal Opportunity: Sexual
Harassment
• Students should contact the PA Program director immediately if they have felt as
if they have been harassed.
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
40
A3.11, A3.17g
41
Updated 01/06/2017
67
The student is encouraged to directly contact the USF Center for Victim Advocacy &
Violence Prevention or to the office of Diversity, Inclusion & Equal Opportunity to
Report any Title IX Complaint or Incident.
Sexual Battery
Sexual battery is a crime under the laws of the State of Florida and will not be tolerated
at the USF MCOM as defined in USF Policy 0-014, Sexual Battery. As an integral part of
academic performance, medical students are expected to maintain the high standards
of professional and personal conduct traditionally associated with the practice of
medicine. Any act such as sexual battery is a violation of University Policy, which in the
case of PA students, is viewed as professional misconduct and is a violation of academic
standards. As such, any professional misconduct is subject to disciplinary action by the
APPC.
PA Program students who are victims of actual or threatened violence can obtain
assistance from the Health Enhancement for Lifelong Professional Students (HELPS)
Program. Additionally, PA students should refer to the USF Policy concerning Sexual
Battery.
Center for Victim Advocacy & Violence Prevention
The USF Center for Victim Advocacy & Violence Prevention is available to assist all USF
students or employees who are victims of actual or threatened violence, including but
not limited to battery, assault, sexual battery (date rape, acquaintance rape, stranger
rape) and attempted sexual battery.
Police reports are strongly encouraged; however, reports are not required for
information and referral assistance.
The USF Center for Victim Advocacy & Violence Prevention will assist by providing
information, support, and guidance in the following ways:
1. Crisis intervention
2. Emergency shelter, medical help, and counseling referrals
3. Assistance as needed
4. Services available on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week
Resources - Important Numbers
• Police Emergency: 911 or 813-974-2628
USF Center for Victim Advocacy & Violence Prevention
Office Location: SVC 0067
• Telephone: 813-974-5756
• Crime Victim Hotline: 813-974-5757
Hillsborough County Crisis Lines
• Crisis Line: 813-234-1234
• Sexual Abuse Line: 813-238-7273
68
USF Ombudsman’s Office
An ombudsman (or ombuds) is a neutral third party who helps students and/or
employees address problems, concerns, and complaints through informal means such as
conversation, mediation, and other problem solving strategies. Many campuses, state
agencies, and corporations have an ombuds.
USF's Student Ombuds Office functions under these standards of practice to serve
students:
CONFIDENTIALITY: Concerns or information brought to the Ombuds Office will not
be shared with anyone unless you give permission for it to be shared and the staff
feels that sharing will help solve your problem. The only instance where we are
mandated by the state of Florida to share information is if someone poses a threat
to themselves or to others.
IMPARTIALITY: The Ombuds does not advocate for you, the student, or the
university. The Ombuds Office staff considers the interests and concerns of all
parties involved with the goal of achieving fair and equitable solutions.
INDEPENDENCE: The Ombuds Office operates independently of administrative
authorities.
INFORMALITY: The Ombuds Office staff will informally investigate student concerns
without issuing judgments or decisions. The office does not arbitrate, adjudicate, or
participate in any internal or external processes, including legal.
What the USF Ombuds Office CAN do:
• Listen to complaints, concerns, problems, and disputes
• Provide referrals
• Identify relevant policies and procedures
• Facilitate communication
• Gather facts and information
• Explore solutions
• Report trends in student issues to the university
• Recommend changes to USF policies and procedures
The Ombuds Office reserves the right to deny any case considered inappropriate.
You can reach them at 813-974-0835, ombuds@usf.edu, or
http://www.usf.edu/student-affairs/ombuds/about-us/index.aspx
42
42
Updated 03/20/2017
69
Tuition, Fees, and Medical Equipment Requirements
Tuition and Fees
Tuition for the PA Program is a flat annual rate. The actual dates of attendance and
annual tuition and fees may change somewhat, from year to year. Changes to these
costs will be updated on this page as soon as possible.
Cost of Attendance
Estimated costs for attending the PA program are the sum of the tuition and fees, books
and supplies, housing, commuting expenses and personal expenses such as food,
clothing and insurance. “Cost of Attendance” only covers the months that a student is
enrolled in classes. These are the expenses the Higher Education Amendments of 1965
require schools to construct so students can budget accordingly during his/her
enrollment and are used to assist in the determination of federal financial aid eligibility.
The Amendments mandate that this “Cost of Attendance” budget reflect ONLY the costs
for the student and not of expenses incurred by other family members.
The law also allows adjustment on a case by case basis for costs for "Dependent Care,"
such as day care expenses for children, costs for elderly or disabled dependent care so
that you might attend school. These "Dependent Care" costs can be added to the
student's cost of attendance, upon submission of actual receipts to the Financial Aid
Office. Contact the financial aid office if you need information on adjusting your cost of
attendance.
43
Room and Board
The costs included in this category of the budget are estimates of expenses that the
“average” student may incur during each year of enrollment in the PA Program. While
actual expenses will vary among students, the estimated total cost of living will allow for
a low to moderate standard of living. The calculation for room expenses is one-half the
average rental rate of a two-bedroom apartment in the area. The budget assumes that
single students share living facilities to help reduce expenses. An allowance is made for
the following items:
• rent for a two bedroom apartment/shared
• utilities
• phone
• miscellaneous (renters insurance, garbage pickup, etc.)
• food
43
Updated 10/19/2016
70
Physician Assistant Program - Cost of Attendance
44
Year 1 Summer 2017 Fall 2017 Spring 2018
Students
Admitted in
Summer 2017
Florida
Resident
Non-
Resident
Florida
Resident
Non-
Resident
Florida
Resident
Non-
Resident
Tuition and Fees* $11,361
$21,511
$11,361
$21,511
$11,361
$21,511
Housing/Meals $5,525
$5,525
$5,525
$5,525
$5,525
$5,525
Books/Supplies** $1,371
$1,371
$600
$600
$600
$600
Personal/Medical $1,922
$1,922
$1,922
$1,922
$1,922
$1,922
Transportation*** $800
$800
$800
$800
$800
$800
Total $20,979
$31,129
$20,208
$30,358
$20,208
$30,358
Year 2 Summer 2018 Fall 2018 Spring 2019
Florida
Resident
Non-
Resident
Florida
Resident
Non-
Resident
Florida
Resident
Non-
Resident
Tuition and Fees* $11,361
$21,511
$11,361
$21,511
$11,361
$21,511
Housing/Meals $5,180
$5,180
$5,525
$5,525
$5,525
$5,525
Books/Supplies** $600
$600
$600
$600
$600
$600
Personal/Medical $1,844
$1,844
$1,922
$1,922
$1,922
$1,922
Transportation*** $750
$750
$800
$800
$800
$800
Total $19,735
$29,885
$20,208
$30,358
$20,208
$30,358
Rotation Expenses: The bulk of rotation expenses are covered in the “Cost of Attendance”
figures shown above for books, supplies, transportation, housing and other living expenses
during the academic year. Specific rotations may require additional expenses that are the
responsibility of the student.
* Estimated Tuition and Fees subject to change based on Board of Trustees
approval.
Note: The $200.00 Seat deposit is nonrefundable will be applied to first year tuition.
** Included in this amount is the onetime fee of $475.00 for the PANCE test, background
screening of $67.00 and fingerprinting charges of $50.00 or $60 (fee dependent on residency).
*** University transportation (Bull Runner
) is available for students’ use at no additional charge
above the university fee of $96. The figure provided represents the estimated cost of operating
an automobile.
44
Updated 01/06/2017
71
Cost of attendance budget includes only those expenses associated with the student and not to
be considered an exhaustive list. Living expenses for spouse and/or other dependents are not
recognized as part of the student’s standard cost of attendance.
Other expenses not considered essential to a student’s education or living expenses are the sole
responsibility of the student. Examples of this include but are not limited to, attendance at
conferences, membership in specialty professional organizations or other optional resources.
NOTE: The costs represented here represent estimates based at time of publishing. These costs
are subject to change and will be updated as soon as possible when changes occur.
Tuition for all students is payable within the academic year. All figures are subject to
change.
45
A word about late tuition/fee waivers: The University of South Florida Morsani College
of Medicine may approve a waiver of the Late Payment Fee if a student is unable to
make payment on time due to circumstances determined by the MCOM to be
exceptional and beyond the control of the student. Late Fee waivers will not be
approved if the disbursement delay is due to late submission of financial aid
requirements by the student.
Tuition Refunds
46
Students who withdraw, transfer, take a Leave of Absence (LOA) exceeding 120 days, or
who are dismissed from the PA Program before completion of 80% of the academic year
may be granted a prorated refund of tuition paid. Refunds will not be given to students
who are enrolled for more than 80% of the academic year. A written request for a
refund of tuition must be submitted to the MCOM Registrar’s Office to initiate the
refund.
For students who receive financial aid, tuition refunds are paid as follows:
1. Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan
2. Federal Direct Graduate/Plus Loan
3. Other Federal, State, private or institutional resource
4. The student
A student may be granted a refund of 100% tuition paid if he/she withdraws due to
circumstances determined by the PA Program to be exceptional and beyond the control
of the student. These circumstances may include:
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
45
Updated 06/20/2016
46
A3.14g
72
1. Illness of the student of such severity or duration, as confirmed in writing by a
physician, to preclude completion of the courses;
2. Death of the student or death in the immediate family (parent, spouse, child, or
sibling);
3. Involuntary call to active military duty;
4. A situation in which the university is in error as confirmed in writing by an
appropriate university official.
5. Other documented exceptional circumstances beyond the control of the student
which preclude completion of the courses, accompanied by a letter of
explanation and appropriate documentation.
Financial Aid
47
Financial aid for Physician Assistant students is processed through the USF
Health Financial Aid Office which is located in the USF HEALTH WELL. All aid
applications, information regarding loan periods and disbursements, inquiries, and
correspondence must be directly sent to:
University of South Florida
USF Health Financial Aid Office, MDC Box 42
12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.
Tampa, FL 33612-4799
You can send emails to the USF Health Financial Aid staff here: Email us here
To schedule an appointment, prospective students can use this link: Schedule
Appointment Here Select ‘USF Health Financial Aid’ under Area.
Walk-in services available Monday – Friday from 8:00 to 4:30 – we are located in the
WELL.
Financial Aid Application and Deadlines
48
– FASFA Code 001537
January 1
st
FASFA applications can be submitted online by accessing the following website:
www.fafsa.ed.gov
Tuition Payment Information
Tuition invoices are available at the beginning of each semester (Summer/Fall/Spring) and
must be paid by the fifth day of the semester. Tuition is billed in three installments by the
Registrar's Office and processed by the Health Business Office (see remittance address
below for USF Health Payment Center). Failure to make payment on time will result in
cancellation of registration.
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
47
A.105 updated 10/06/2016
48
Updated 10/18/2016
73
Partial payments and credit card payments are not accepted. Payments must be mailed
to:
USF Health Payment Center
PO BOX 864300
Orlando, FL 32886-4300
Business Office correspondence may be sent to:
USF Morsani College of Medicine
Health Business Office MDC 66
12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.
Tampa, FL 33612
Phone: (813) 974-5295
Impact of a Leave of Absence or Withdrawal on Repayment of Student Loans
For the purposes of financial aid, an LOA is considered a temporary break in a student’s
attendance that cannot exceed 180 days within a 12-month period. The PA Program
must report to the lender(s) a student as “no longer enrolled” when the LOA exceeds
180 days. The student may be obligated to begin loan repayment. The student is
required to meet with a staff member from the Office of Financial Aid prior to beginning
the LOA to discuss student loan obligations during their LOA.
If a student withdraws from the PA Program and received financial aid during their
enrollment they are required to attend a financial aid exit interview. During the exit
interview, a staff member from the Office of Financial Aid will advise the student about
their rights, responsibilities, and loan repayment obligations for the financial aid they
received. Veteran's Affairs (VA) benefits will be terminated for VA students for
unsatisfactory progress.
Financial Aid Resources
The PA program is not involved in the financial aid decision process. The Morsani
College of Medicine has a Financial Aid Office that is independent from the main USF
Financial Aid Office. All aid applications, information regarding loan periods and
disbursements, inquiries, and correspondence must be directly sent to:
USF Health Morsani College of Medicine
Financial Aid Office, MDC42
12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.
Tampa, FL 33612
74
Helpful Financial Aid Programs
The following websites may provide additional information about sources of financial
aid:
Fast Web: fastweb.com
SCHOLARSHIPS AND LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAMS:
National Health Service Corps (NHSC)
http://nhsc.hrsa.gov/scholarships/index.html
US Army Scholarship Program
http://www.goarmy.com/amedd/education/graduate-health-care-education.html
US Air Force Scholarship Program
http://www.unmc.edu/financialaid/types-aid/scholarships/pa-hpsp.pdf
US Navy Scholarship Program
http://www.navy.com/careers/healthcare/clinical-care/physician-assistant.html#ft-key-
responsibilities
US Public Health Service - Senior Commissioned Officer Student Training and Extern Program
(SRCOSTEP)
49
http://www.usphs.gov/student/srcostep.aspx
For information on SCHOLARSHIPS AND LOANS FOR DISADVANTAGED STUDENTS:
Bureau of Health Professions – Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)
http://bhpr.hrsa.gov/scholarshipsloans/index.html
For information on SCHOLARSHIPS FOR AMERICAN INDIAN AND ALASKA NATIVE
STUDENTS:
Indian Health Service Scholarships
www.ihs.gov
For information on SCHOLARSHIPS, LOANS, CALCULATORS, APPLICATIONS, etc.:
FinAid! “The SmartStudent™ Guide to Financial Aid”
www.finaid.org/
49
Added 09/22/2016
75
Required Medical Equipment – Approximated Costs
MEDICAL EQUIPMENT REQUIRED - APPROXIMATED COSTS (These costs are included in
the “Cost of Attendance.” Must be purchased by each student prior the beginning of
Year 1.)
Equipment
Price
Instrument bag
22.14
Stethoscope
74.99
Otoscope - ophthalmoscope (diagnostic set )
540.00
Adult blood pressure cuff (sphygmomanometer)
18.95
Oral Thermometer: digital (no tympanic thermometers)
12.75
Pocket eye chart (Rosenbaum)
5.49
Pen light
5.03
Individually wrapped tongue depressors
5.51
Reflex / percussion hammer
19.99
Tuning fork set (256 Hz and 512 Hz)
17.99
Sharp & dull sensation tester (e.g. a Wartenberg "pinwheel")
11.68
Disposable thermometer shields
2.98
Small pocket ruler with standard and metric measurement capability
12.29
Flexible tape measure with standard and metric measurement capability
2.50
Cotton balls
5.45
Coffee grounds and cinnamon grounds in small container (e.g. contact lens container)
5.47
Plastic or latex gloves (buy a box for economy)
7.89
771.10
Note: Prices will vary considerably with quality of products, availability of student
discounts, and quantities purchased from vendors. When you select equipment,
please keep in mind that it will be utilized during your academic and clinical years in
the PA program and also for several years of employment as a physician assistant
after your graduation.
76
Academic Calendar and Curriculum
ACADEMIC CALENDAR*
*Please be aware that all dates on the academic calendar are subject to change so the
calendar is only available electronically.
Note: Religious holidays may be waived for students serving in the Clinical Year at the
discretion of the clinical director and preceptors.
CURRICULUM
50
Curriculum for Year 1
YEAR 1 - SUMMER
Course Name Credits
Anatomy I 2
Pathophysiological Basis of Disease I 3
Clinical Medicine I 5
Clinical Pharmacology I 3
Physical Diagnosis I 2
Role of the Physician Assistant in American Healthcare 1
Clinical Laboratory and Diagnostics I 2
TOTAL CREDITS SUMMER YEAR 1 18
YEAR 1 - FALL
Course Name Credits
Anatomy II 2
Pathophysiological Basis of Disease II 3
Clinical Medicine II 5
Clinical Pharmacology II 3
Physical Diagnosis II 2
Biostatistics and Epidemiology: An Introduction to Clinical
Research
1
Clinical Laboratory and Diagnostics II 1
Basic Medical Genetics 1
TOTAL CREDITS FALL YEAR 1 18
YEAR 1 - SPRING
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
50
A3.14d, A3.14e, A3.17b, D1.04
77
Course Name Credits
Clinical Medicine III 8
Advanced Clinical Pharmacotherapeutics 3
Clinical Skills and Procedures 2
Evidence Based Medicine 1
Behavioral Medicine 2
Cultural Issues in Healthcare 1
TOTAL CREDITS SPRING YEAR 1 17
TOTAL CREDITS YEAR 1 53
YEAR 2 – SUMMER-FALL-SPRING
Course Name
Length of
Clerkship
Weeks
Credits
Capstone Research
Project
1
Internal Medicine 5 4
Surgery 5 4
Pediatrics
5
4
Family Medicine
5
4
Women’s Health
5
4
Emergency Medicine
5
4
Behavioral and Mental
Health
5 4
Elective
10
8
TOTAL CREDITS YEAR 2
37
TOTAL CREDITS FOR THE PROGRAM
90
78
Course Instructors
PA Program faculty members teach a number of the courses in the PA curriculum,
depending on their areas of specialty and their academic and professional interests. In
addition to PA faculty, the PA courses are also taught by physicians and basic science
faculty in the Morsani College of Medicine and other colleges throughout USF
Health who prepare and deliver classroom lectures in their areas of expertise. Both the
academic and clinical directors ensure that the classroom education and testing provided
to PA students remains at the level expected of physician assistants and also ensures continuity
of coverage for all evaluation methodologies. Course syllabi and other information will be
provided at the start of the course.
Medical Equipment
Medical equipment will be required during your training in the PA Program. Medical equipment
will be utilized during the Physical Diagnosis course, the Clinical Skills and Procedures course, all
clinical rotations, and in your practice after graduation.
The PA Program faculty does not make specific recommendations regarding vendors but can
answer questions about the required equipment. A list of suggested equipment is provided on
the Tuition, Fees, and Medical Equipment Requirements page in this handbook.
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79
Employment, Security, Computer Requirements, and Campus Resources/Operations
Program Hours
Normal business hours of the PA Program are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday
through Friday. Check the course schedule for individual class/clinic times and locations.
Class Cancellation and Emergency Closings
It is rarely necessary to cancel class; however, if warranted by unexpected events,
an event of severe weather or man-made emergency, the department follows USF
guidelines as announcement of class cancellation would be made through the program
director’s office. More information about the University's Emergency Management
system is available at the following website. In the event that it becomes necessary for
USF to suspend normal operations, USF may opt to continue delivery of instruction
through methods that include but are not limited to: Canvas, Elluminate, Skype, email
messaging, and/or an alternate schedule. It is the responsibility of the student to
monitor the Canvas site for each class for course specific communication, and the main
USF, College, and program websites, emails, and MoBull messages for important general
information.
Security and Safety
52
The safety of students and employees is a primary concern of USF Health.
The Campus Security office is located in MDC 1023. Their telephone number is 813-974-
2417. If no one is present, the phone reverts automatically to the University Police at
813-974-2628. The safety of students is a primary concern of the PA Program. The
educational process involves long hours, many spent alone studying or working in the
laboratory. Students must take extra precautions on and off campus. USF police suggest
the following preventive measures: avoid isolated sites; have access to other people or a
phone; call the police department (813-974-2417) when working or studying on campus
after hours so the area can be patrolled; secure doors behind you; and do not walk to
the parking lot alone at night, call the SAFE (813-974-7233) on campus for a SAFE Team
Escort.
A security officer is on duty at the USF Health Center on a 24-hour basis.
If you have a true emergency, you should call 911.
However, if you are calling from a cell phone you will get the Tampa Police Department.
You must tell them this is an emergency on USF property and that you are calling from a
cell phone. You should be prepared to give your name and precise location. You should
also state if you feel threatened.
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A1.03g
80
Sexual assault is a criminal violation subject to prosecution by the State Attorney's
Office. All sexual assault allegations reported to the USF police are referred to the State
Attorney's Office, which then makes decides whether or not to prosecute.
Background Screening of Students and Employees
Employee Screening
USF, MCOM, and the PA Program are committed to ensuring a safe professional work
and study environment for all employees and students. As part of the hiring process, as
well as for protection of the safety, security, and health of its students, PA Program
employees and other USF employees (staff, administrators, faculty, etc.) must submit to
a background screening. See USF Policy on Criminal History Background Checks.
Student Screening
As part of the CASPA application, applicants must acknowledge and provide details
related to any former charges and/or convictions of a felony or misdemeanor. For any
felony convictions that occur between the time of submission of the CASPA application
and matriculation into the PA Program, specific details, including date of charge(s), type
of offense, and disposition of the case, must be reported to the program director’s
office immediately. After matriculation, should a student be convicted of any felonies at
any time during his/her enrollment in the program, s/he must report the details
immediately to the director’s office. Failure to comply will be grounds for dismissal.
During the course of the clinical year, students will be required to undergo one or more
national criminal background checks, which will include finger printing. In addition,
certain clinical sites that are regularly used by the program may require additional drug
screening in order for students to have practice opportunities at those institutions.
A negative criminal background record or a failure to pass drug screening may impede
clinical training or status in the program. By accepting admission to the program,
students agree to national criminal background checks and drug screening, and also
agree to pay expenses associated with such screenings.
Employment While Enrolled in the Program
53
The PA Program curriculum is extremely rigorous and considered a 24 month, full time
commitment. The PA Program strongly discourages students to commence or continue
employment during the program. Students who chose to work during the program put
themselves at risk for poor academic performance.
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A3.14h
81
Note: PA students are not required to work for the program, substitute, or function as
instructional faculty and must not substitute for clinical or administrative staff during
supervised clinical practice experience.
54
Any employment during the term of the program must be approved, in advance of
matriculation, or at the time of employment by the program director. A student who
chooses to work may not miss, be tardy, or reschedule classes, labs, exams, special
assignments, community service work, or clinical rotations because of their work
schedule. A student who chooses to work may not switch classes, labs, special
assignments, community service work, or clinical rotations because of their work
schedule. Academic standards must be upheld and make-up classes, labs, or exams are
not offered. If a student who chooses to work is identified as experiencing academic or
professional difficulties, they will be required to appear before the APPC and a
recommendation to discontinue working while in the program may be made.
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A3.04, A3.05
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Educational Resources
55
The USF Shimberg Health Sciences Library, as well as the USF Main Campus library is
open to faculty, students, and staff.
USF Shimberg Health Sciences Library
Monday - Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Sunday: Noon - 11:00 p.m.
USF Main Campus Tampa Library
Monday - Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Close at 6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Tampa General Hospital Library
Monday - Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Veteran's Administration Hospital Medical Library
Monday - Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Photocopy Machines
56
Students have access to printing services in the WELL or in the Shimberg Health Sciences
Library. If you have a great deal of material to copy, you may want to use the USF Print
Shop located on main campus in the Marshall Student Center. Also, Pro-Copy located at
5219 E. Fowler Avenue, which generally discounts USF student services with a USF ID
Card.
Bookstore
The USF Health Bookstore (813-974-4984), operated by Barnes and Noble, is located
adjacent to the south courtyard. The store carries (or can order) all required and
recommended books for the PA Program. In addition, numerous reference books,
medical instruments, supplies and lab coats are available.
USF Main Campus Bookstore
USF Health Building Codes
• CMS – Children’s Medical Services (USF Health Administration), 13101 Bruce B.
Downs Blvd.
• MDF – Faculty Office Building, 13220 USF Laurel Drive
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A1.05
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• HMT – Harbourside Medical Tower, 5 Tampa General Circle
• MDA – Medical Center Ambulatory Clinic, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.
• MDC – Medical Center
• MDH – Morsani Center for Advanced Health Care, 13330 USF Laurel Drive
• MDL – Medical Center Laboratories
• MDT – School of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences, 3515 E. Fletcher
Avenue
• MCC – Moffitt Cancer Center, USF Magnolia Drive
• STC – USF Health South Tampa Center for Advanced Healthcare, 2 Tampa
General Circle
• TGH – Tampa General Hospital, 1 Tampa General Circle
• UPC – USF Health University Psychiatry Center, 3515 E. Fletcher Avenue
Study Rooms and Student Lounges
Study space is available for students in the USF Shimberg Health Sciences Library, WELL,
assigned small group spaces, and student lounges. Students have access to the Group
Learning space on a 24-hour basis, but must vacate on demand for any scheduled class
activities. Space in the Shimberg Library and the WELL are available during normal
library hours.
Student lounges are located in the WELL, Nickels Student Computer Lounge (MDC
1050A, located adjacent to the bookstore), USF Shimberg Health Sciences Library, and
the student kitchen (MDL 1001 – in the south courtyard on the opposite side from the
USF Health Bookstore). MDC 1030, 1050A, and MDL 1001 are open 24/7, and are
accessible with a USF ID card. Food should not be left in the Student Lounge. Students
are expected to keep the lounge and appliances clean.
Food Service and Dining
57
USF Health offers fresh food, coffee and dining choices at the WELL. The Rising Roll
Gourmet Café and the Central Market provides students with healthy options at
reasonable costs.
Snack bar services are available in the USF Health Bookstore.
Soda and snack bar and vending machines are available in/near the bookstore and
WELL.
USF Health Student Amenities and Resources – WELL
Visit our website for details.
Information Desk
Study Space
Student Lounge
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Student Printing
Serenity Room
Lactation Room
Leadership and Learning Room
ATM
USF Health Wellness & Student Involvement
Note: The Fitness Center is currently being renovated and moved into the WELL. It for
the exclusive use of all students, faculty, and staff at USF Health. Regulations do apply.
Building and Room problems
Please report any problems (e.g. broken desks, malfunctioning equipment, etc.) to the
PA Program, MDC 0900 (813-974-8926).
Visitors
Guests are not normally permitted in the classroom or labs except with the advance
approval of the academic or clinical directors. Guests are not permitted in the Fitness
Center (MDC 1030).
Parking on Campus
Parking information will be provided for and during the admissions and
matriculation process. Parking permits are required for all vehicles at USF 24 hours a
day, 7 days a week. After 5:30 p.m. (or posted time), staff, commuter students, and
resident students may park in any lot. Individuals may purchase only one vehicle permit;
they are available for purchase during the first week of classes and must be renewed
annually. Parking lots are crowded, so allow sufficient time to ensure that you arrive at
your classes prior to the scheduled start time.
Permits must be displayed in your car’s windshield at all times when on campus,
including during periods of clinical practice when students are seldom actually on the
campus. If you forget your parking cling tag, to avoid a citation, stop by the Campus
Information Center drive through (Fowler entrance to campus) or Parking and
Transportation Services (PSB 101) to pick up a free courtesy permit for the day. There
are "pay to park" locations throughout the university. To purchase a parking permit cling
tag or view other parking regulations, visit the USF Parking and Transportation
Services website.
Computer Use and Requirements
The computing facilities in various locations throughout the college are a vital
component of the academic environment. Each person using these computers must be
considerate of other users. The purpose of these facilities is the support of teaching and
85
research by its authorized users. The Shimberg Library and the WELL offer computers for
student on campus use, as well as various locations for personal computer stations.
58
Activities that damage or impede the work of other users are of particular concern.
Such activities are discourteous and illegal. The State of Florida has laws which hold
that unauthorized use (including accessing another user’s account) leading to offenses
against intellectual property and/or computer users, is a felony. Besides civil penalties
that can include imprisonment of up to fifteen years and fines, the MCOM and/or
University may impose administrative penalties and sanctions against those found to
have violated the law. The University of South Florida wishes to provide open access to
students and faculty with as few restrictions as possible. Courteous and thoughtful
computing will minimize the need for regulations and annoying security procedures.
University policies are explicit (Student Code of Conduct) and any violation of these
policies, including sending hate mail, is totally unacceptable and will be dealt with
accordingly.
Computer Requirements
Every student will be required to have a laptop computer that meets the specifications
outlined by the PA Program. In order to take advantage of educational opportunities as
they present themselves throughout the course of your education, there may be
additional experiences required of all students such as extra classroom sessions, on-line
course modules, etc.
Access to and on-going use of a computer is required for all students to complete their
degree programs successfully. USF and the PA Program expects each student to acquire
computer hardware and software appropriate to his or her degree program.
Competency in the basic use of a computer is a requirement. Class assignments and
official university correspondence via e-mail require use of a computer. While the
university offers limited access to computers, most students will be expected to
purchase or lease a computer that is capable of network connection to the Internet, and
productivity functions such as word processing and spreadsheet calculation.
The program does not endorse a specific operating system or computer brand, although
USF Health IS (Information Systems) primarily supports PCs. You can purchase a PC
through the USF Computer Store. If you have any technology issues or questions, please
contact USF Health Information Systems through the Health IS website where there are a
variety of methods for obtaining help: USF Health Information Systems
(http://health.usf.edu/is).
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A1.05
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The following list of capabilities is recommended at a minimum:
59
Hardware*
Minimum MAC and Windows PC Specifications:
1. Intel Core i5, i7, or higher family of processors or AMD A-Series, Athlon 5000, or
Athlon X4 series processors
2. 2.4 Ghz or higher processor (CPU) speed (Dual Core Processor minimum)
3. 14” or higher display running 1366 X 768 resolution or higher
4. 8 Gigabytes of RAM or higher
5. 500 Gigabyte Hard Drive
6. Ethernet connection (wired)
7. Wireless B/G/N connection
8. Microsoft Windows 7 Operating System or higher
9. Printer
10. Long life battery
Software*
• Operating Systems
o PC - Windows 7 or 10, 64 bit
• Microsoft Office*
o PC – Microsoft Office 2013, or 2016
o Microsoft Office products are available for a free download in the Office 365
portal with a HSCNET Account - https://outlook.office365.com
o MAC – Office 2011, Office 2016
o Microsoft Office 2013 or 2016. (Microsoft Office products are available for a
free download in the Office 365 portal with a HSCNET Account -
https://outlook.office365.com
)
Windows Operating Systems are still available for sale in the
computer store.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader DC
• Antivirus software
*Updates to this list will be provided upon matriculation.
Email Policy
Email is the official form of communication for the USF MCOM PA Program. Students
are required to check email regularly. Email is our primary means of communication
with students. Email responses when necessary are expected in a timely manner.
When communicating with the PA Program, it is USF policy that only University of South
Florida email accounts will be recognized for student communication. This is important
because e-mails originating from third-party accounts/services, such as Yahoo, Gmail,
and others are frequently routed to quarantine folders. In these cases, the recipient may
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87
not be notified of the email until a later date when the quarantine folder contents are
reviewed. You will be instructed on how to obtain your USF email account upon
acceptance into the program.
In order to avoid problems with receiving important messages from the program due to
exceeding your email quota, delete old messages and clear your browser cache on a
regular basis. Each student will be responsible for any consequences resulting from the
program’s inability to deliver important email due to mismanagement of the email
account. Failure to comply with the email policy will reflect poorly on the student’s
professional development.
University of South Florida policies pertaining to email forwarding and computing
resources, including security and privacy issues, can be found at the USF Health IS
Computer Procedure website.
Social Networking Policy
The PA Program subscribes to the policy pertaining to the use of social networking sites
as adopted by the university and USF Health. Official USF Health Social Media sites are
maintained through the USF Health Office of Communications and
Marketing department.
The administration of the university recognizes that social networking websites and
applications, including but not limited to Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, are an
important and timely means of communication. However, students and residents who
use these websites and other applications must be aware of the critical importance of
privatizing their web sites so that only trustworthy “friends” have access to the
websites/applications. They must also be aware that posting certain information may
be illegal. Violation of existing statutes and administrative regulations may expose the
offender to criminal and civil liability, and the punishment for violations may include
fines and imprisonment. Offenders also may be subject to adverse academic actions
that range from a letter of reprimand to probation to dismissal from school or resident
training.
The following actions are strictly forbidden:
• In your professional role as a care-giver, you may not present the personal
health information of other individuals. Removal of an individual’s name does
not constitute proper de-identification of protected health information. Inclusion
of data such as age, gender, race, diagnosis, date of evaluation, or type of
treatment or the use of a highly specific medical photograph (such as a
before/after photograph of a patient having surgery or a photograph of a patient
from one of the medical outreach trips) may still allow the reader to recognize
the identity of a specific individual.
• You may not report private (protected) academic information of another student
or trainee. Such information might include, but is not limited to: course or
88
clerkship grades, narrative evaluations, examination scores, or adverse academic
actions.
• In posting information on social networking sites, you may not present yourself
as an official representative or spokesperson for the University of South Florida
Morsani College of Medicine.
• You may not represent yourself as another person, real or fictitious, or otherwise
attempt to obscure your identity as a means to circumvent the prohibitions
listed above and below.
• You may not utilize websites and/or applications in a manner that interferes with
your official work commitments. That is, do not tie up a hospital or clinic
computer with personal business when others need access to the computer for
patient- related matters. Moreover, do not delay completion of assigned clinical
responsibilities in order to engage in social networking.
In addition to the absolute prohibitions listed above, the actions listed below are
strongly discouraged. Violations of these suggested guidelines may be considered
unprofessional behavior and may be the basis for disciplinary action.
• Display of vulgar language
• Display of language or photographs that imply disrespect for any individual or
group because of age, race, gender, ethnicity, or sexual orientation
• Presentation of personal photographs or photographs of others that may
reasonably be interpreted as condoning irresponsible use of alcohol, substance
abuse, or sexual promiscuity
• Posting of potentially inflammatory or unflattering material on another
individual’s website, e.g. on the “wall” of that individual’s Facebook site
• Personal friendships between faculty and students through social media
When using these social networking websites/applications, students are strongly
encouraged to use a personal e-mail address, rather than their health.usf.edu address,
as their primary means of identification. Individuals also should make every effort to
present themselves in a mature, responsible, and professional manner. Discourse
should always be civil and respectful.
Please be aware that no privatization measure is perfect and that undesignated persons
may still gain access to your networking site. A site such as YouTube, of course, is
completely open to the public. Future employers (residency or fellowship program
directors, department chairs, or private practice partners) often review these network
sites when considering potential candidates for employment.
Finally, although once-posted information can be removed from the original social
networking site, exported information cannot be recovered. Any digital exposure can
“live on” beyond its removal from the original website and continue to circulate in other
89
venues. Therefore, think carefully before you post any information on a website or
application. Always be modest, respectful, and professional in your actions.
Bicycles
USF has instituted a new program for bicycle use across campus. Please learn more
about this program by clicking here: Share A Bull Bikes
Bicycle racks have been provided for your convenience in several locations around USF
Health. Bikes must be parked in these racks and may not be chained to trees, pillars, etc.
Bikes are not to be brought into any campus or hospital building.
Post Office
A branch office of the United States Postal Service is located in room MDC 1415.
Stamped mail may be dropped off between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Stamps
are not available at this location. A full-service Post Office is located on USF Holly Drive.
USF Student ID and Activities
Prior to orientation, students will obtain a USF Student ID card from the USF ID Card
Center (Marshall Student Center, Room 1505). The cost for a new card is $10 and the
cost for a replacement card is $15.
Your official USF ID card will have a magnetic strip allowing door access to certain areas
throughout the USF Health campus. Your USF ID card is also used as part of your
hospital identification tag. It must be worn on your white lab coat any time you are in a
clinical setting. Please go to the USF ID Card Center if a problem occurs with your card or
to replace a lost card.
You will need your USF ID card to take advantage of many University services and facilities. Pick
up a Student Activities Calendar at the University Center Information Desk to see the schedule
of University events for the current term. University activities include low-priced weekend
movies, art films, jam sessions, concerts, plays, lectures, and sports events. Use the campus
newspaper, The Oracle, to keep up with current events.
Student Council
Students of the PA Program will be encouraged and assisted in developing a student
society to allow further interaction with other PA Programs, PA students, and the FAPA
and AAPA.
The AAPA Student Society Handbook (PDF) is a guide for PA students, faculty advisers,
and program directors for establishing a student society, organizing and maintaining the
society, and making it successful. Program faculty will assist students in establishing and
developing a unique society at USF for the betterment of the students.
90
Religious and Spiritual Life at USF
The Religious and Spiritual Life at USF is an organization of religious professionals who
have come together from a wide variety of religious traditions to serve the student body
at USF. Each organization commits to a set of guidelines that serve to protect the
students at USF and facilitate their spiritual development. The RSL shall be a forum for
the sharing of information and viewpoints helpful for the common task of the spiritual
development of students at USF. As such, it shall serve as an official point of contact
between the campus religious communities and the Division of Student Affairs.
The RSL’s commitment to the students at USF:
• We recognize your right to practice your faith according to the dictates of your
conscience.
• We recognize your right to be informed about your faith in a spirit that is free from
pressure, coercion or manipulation.
• We recognize your right to say “no” to unwanted or intrusive proselytism and religious
hard-sell.
• We recognize your right to privacy – therefore, we will not visit you without your
permission.
• We recognize your right to know what religious organization you are dealing with
upfront with no hidden agendas or secret affiliations.
Childcare
Class members with children will find many nearby daycare centers. Checkout the USF
Family Center or Preschool for Creative Learning.
91
Registrar, Career Advising, Academic Assistance, Counseling, and Campus Resources
Registrar
Student Records Policy
Student Access to Information
Pursuant to the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”, 20
USC Par. 1232g), 34 CRF Par. 99.1 et seq., Florida Statutes Sub. Par, 228.093 and 240.237
and USF Rule 6C4-2.0021, Florida Administrative Code, students have the right to:
1. Inspect and review their own education records.
2. Expect privacy in their education records.
3. Challenge the accuracy of their education records.
4. Report violations of FERPA to the FERPA Office, Department of Education, 400
Madison Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20202.
5. Bring actions in Florida Circuit Court for violations of Rule 6C4-2.0021, Florida
Administrative Code.
Copies of the University’s student records policy, USF Rule 6C4-2.0021, may be obtained
from:
University
Registrar
or USF Agency Clerk
SVC 1034
Office of General
Counsel/ADM 254
4202 Fowler
Avenue
4202 Fowler Avenue
Tampa, FL 33620
Tampa, FL 33620
Student Confidentiality
The PA Program adheres to strict policies regarding the release of student information.
Note: Students are not given access to the academic records or other confidential
information of other students or faculty. Students are not to release class lists,
addresses, or phone numbers to individuals outside of the PA Program.
60
Release of Student Information
Pursuant to requirements of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the
following types of information, designated by law as “directory information”, may be
released via official media of USF (according to USF policy):
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92
Student name, local and permanent addresses, telephone listing, major field of study,
participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members
of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, full- and part-time
status, the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended, and other
similar information. The University Directory, published annually by the University,
contains only the following information: Student name, local and permanent address,
telephone listings, classification, and major field of study. The University Directory and
other listings of “directory information” are circulated in the course of University
business and therefore, are accessible to the public, as well as to students, faculty, and
staff.
Students must inform the USF MCOM Registrar's Office in writing (forms available for
that purpose), if they wish directory information to be withheld. Such requests must be
received by September 1st and will remain in effect until the student has not been
enrolled at USF for three (3) consecutive terms.
Notification to the University of refusal to permit release of “directory information” via
the University Directory must be received no later than the end of the first week of
classes in the Fall Semester.
Damaged/Duplicate Diplomas
The PA Program does not provide duplicate copies of your diploma. Under
circumstances where a diploma has been lost, stolen, or damaged we will supply a
replacement diploma for a $10 fee [Florida Statute Sec. 1009.24(12) (r)] to cover costs
of production and mailing. The request should include the signed MCOM Transcript
and Diploma Request Form, and a $10 check made out to “UMSA.”
Mail to:
Office of the Registrar
Morsani College of Medicine
12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC 32
Tampa, FL 33612
In the case of a name change, the MCOM Registrar's Office can also supply a
replacement copy upon request as listed above, as well as receipt of the original
diploma and a completed legal name change form.
93
Advising and Assistance
Career Advising
Students entering the PA Program are assigned to a faculty member who will serve
as their advisor and will work with the students throughout their matriculation. A
dedicated "Career Adviser" is on faculty and accessible by appointment.
Academic Assistance
Tutoring, Reading, Study Skills, and Test Taking Assistance
61
Students who are experiencing academic difficulties and are in need of tutoring may
seek assistance by speaking to the PA Program's academic or clinical directors. They will
provide suggestions and guidance as to where to find tutoring opportunities.
Students who are experiencing difficulties with examinations may seek assistance
through Tutoring and Learning Services, but it must first be set up through the PA
Program's academic or clinical directors. These services are directed by Dr. Patricia
Maher, and she can be contacted at 813-974-2713. Assessments of reading skills, study
skills, and test taking abilities are performed and a plan is devised to improve student
examination performance.
Stress Prevention and Counseling
62
Two sources of professional assistance for issues related to stress and personal counseling are
available to PA students.
Health Enhancement for Lifelong Professional Students (HELPS)
The HELPS program is available to students for off-campus stress prevention and
personal counseling related to a variety of concerns: psychological, legal, substance
abuse, financial, academic, career, professional development, etc. The services of HELPS
are available to you, any dependent eligible for insurance benefits and your significant
other whether or not they are currently covered under your health care insurance
policy.
Contact Information:
Wood & Associates
4700 N. Habana Avenue, Suite 300
Tampa, FL 33614
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A3.10
94
HELPS: (813) 870-0184
Out-of-area: 800-343-4670
Website: http://www.woodassociates.net/default.aspx
Costs:
The first three (3) visits by you and/or each of your dependents and significant other to
HELPS are at no charge to you, your family member or significant other. Additional
contacts may be covered by your behavioral health insurance plan. If any testing is
recommended, the costs will be the expense of the student, family member, or
significant other or may be covered by your behavioral health insurance.
There probably will be charges for most of the professional resources to which you, your
family member, or significant other may be referred by your HELPS representative.
Through experience, Wood & Associates has found that many people contacting similar
programs want assessment and support from a program representative for personal,
learning, relationship or other concerns. Behavioral health insurance benefits may
provide coverage for concerns requiring treatment. In some cases, your HELPS
representative may suggest clinics, as opposed to private practitioners as a further step
toward the lowest possible costs.
Confidentiality
Your contact with HELPS is confidential as provided within the parameters of
professional ethics, the USF MCOM contract, and applicable federal and state statute.
Services Offered
HELPS is not a treatment program; rather, it is an assessment, support, and referral
program. The following services are offered:
Problems that can be resolved by counseling or therapy:
• Academic concerns
• Learning disabilities
• Vocational/aptitude testing
• Career decisions
• Interpersonal difficulties
• Relationship problems
• Troubled children/adolescents
• Distress, anxiety, depression, other emotional concern
• Alcohol or drug misuse or abuse of a personal or family nature. When students
present with a substance abuse problem, the student will be provided with
appropriate referrals.
95
Problems that are typically resolved by the courts:
• Divorce, child support
• Property/lease suits
• Court orders
• Imprisonment
• Money or credit problems.
Other problem areas of concern:
• Care for aged/infirm
• Local social services
• Domestic violence
• Immigration
• Sex counseling
Individual or family crisis situations such as rape, assault, robbery, suicide, or other life-
threatening trauma.
USF Counseling Center
Students are encouraged to contact the USF Counseling Center when facing concerns
associated with academic, social, and emotional issues. To request consultation services
at no charge, please call 974-2831. Faculty from the PA program are not providers of
care at the Counseling Center. Your contact with the Counseling Center is confidential as
provided within the parameters of professional ethics and applicable federal and state
statute.
96
Supervised Clinical Practice Experience
Clinical Year Schedule Class of 2019
C
LERKSHIPS ARE
5
WEEKS EACH
(S
EE
CURRICULUM LIST FOR CLERKSHIPS)
D
ATES
E
ND OF ROTATION
EXAM
C
LERKSHIP
1
5/14/2018
6/13/2018
06/14
-
15/2018
CLERKSHIP 2
6/18/2018
7/18/2018
07/19 - 20/2018
I
NDEPENDENCE
D
AY
-
4
TH OF
J
ULY
-
UNIVERSITY CLOSED
7/4/2017
C
LERKSHIP
3
7/23/2018
8/22/2018
08/23
-
24/2018
C
LERKSHIP
4
8/27/2018
9/26/2018
09/27
-
28/2018
L
ABOR
D
AY
-
U
NIVERSITY
C
LOSED
9/4/2018
C
LERKSHIP
5
10/1/2018
10/31/2018
11/01
-
02/2018
C
LERKSHIP
6
11/5/2018
12/19/2018
12/20
-
21/2018
V
ETERAN
'
S
D
AY
-
U
NIVERSITY
C
LOSED
11/11/2018
F
ALL
B
REAK
&
T
HANKSGIVING HOLIDAY
-
UNIVERSITY CLOSED
11/19/2018
-
11/23/2018
W
INTER
B
REAK
-
U
NIVERSITY
C
LOSED
12/24/2018
-
01/04/2019
CLERKSHIP 7
1/7/2019
2/6/2019
02/07 - 08/2019
MLK
D
AY
-
U
NIVERSITY
C
LOSED
1/21/2019
S
UMMATIVE
E
VALUATION
OSCE
02/07
–
08/2019
C
LERKSHIP
8
(E
LECTIVE
)
2/11/2019
3/13/2019
S
UMMATIVE
E
VALUATION
EXAM
03/14
-
15/2019
C
LERKSHIP
9
(E
LECTIVE
)
3/18/2019
4/17/2019
S
UMMATIVE
E
VALUATION
-
REMEDIATION
4/22/2019
4/26/2019
B
OARD
R
EVIEW
4/29/2019
5/3/2019
GRADUATION
5/10/2019
TENTATIVE
97
Purpose
63
The Supervised Clinical Experience Practice Phase portion of the PA Program student
handbook is designed to provide the student the policies, procedures, and pertinent
information regarding the clinical year. It is important to remember that while students
completing the clinical phase of the program are seldom on campus, they are still PA
Program students and are expected to abide by the policies set forth in the PA Program
Student Handbook as well as this manual at all times.
It is the student’s responsibility to read this manual. All students must sign a declaration
of understanding prior to beginning the clinical year stating they have read, understand,
and agree to abide by the contents of this manual.
Although not specifically stated after each section, failure to comply and/or conform to
the guidelines, academic requirements, rules and regulations of this manual could result
in disciplinary action, up to and including referral to the PA Program Academic Progress
and Professionalism Review Committee (APPC) and dismissal from the program.
The PA Program reserves the right to alter, change, add to, or delete any of the policies
or procedures in the manual. Students will be notified in writing and in a timely fashion
of any changes in the clinical manual should they occur.
If there are questions regarding the manual, please direct them to the PA Program
Clinical Director for clarification.
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
63
A3.02- The program must inform students of program policies and practices.
98
Overview of the Supervised Clinical Practice Experience (SCPE) Phase
The didactic year of education provides a broad base of knowledge, which will be
further refined, challenged, and solidified through hands on clinical training during the
clinical phase. The clinical phase is a 12 month period where students engage in well
over 2300 hours of supervised clinical practice experiences. Students participate in
seven core clinical clerkships Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Women’s
Health, Surgery, Emergency Medicine, Behavioral Health and two elective clerkship (all
clerkships are five weeks long). There are multiple subspecialties that are available for
the elective supervised clinical practice. The USF MCOM PA Program has developed
strategic partnerships with leading hospitals in the Tampa Bay area such as Tampa
General Hospital, the James A. Haley Veteran's Administration Hospital. Students will
also rotate through USF Health’s outpatient medical centers, the Carol and Frank
Morsani Center for Advanced Healthcare and the South Tampa Center for Advanced
Healthcare. These environments offer in-patient and out-patient experiences
encompassing chronic, acute and health maintenance clinical encounters across the life
span. Each clinical setting is unique, serving communities of diverse cultural and
economic backgrounds. These facilities integrate the latest information technology,
including electronic health records, and offer students the opportunity to create a true
partnership with patients in an interdisciplinary learning environment. At the end of
each supervised clinical practice experience the students return to the main campus for
two days. End of rotation activities include an end of rotation examination, focused
NCCPA board review with case discussions, and round table discussions on topics
regarding Physician Assistant practice.
Course Descriptions
PAS 6100 Internal Medicine Clerkship
This five week clinical course introduces the student to the Internal Medicine setting where the student
is exposed to common diseases treated by Internal Medicine practitioners
64
in conjunction with other
members of the health care team. Physician assistant student becomes a part of an internal medicine
practice caring for adult and geriatric patients. Students perform patient history and physical
examinations, obtain diagnostic testing and present data to their precepting physician with a proposed
differential diagnosis and treatment plan. Students participate in hospital rounds where diagnostic and
therapeutic plans for acutely ill patients are discussed, performing and observing various clinical
procedures, and preparing written and oral communication about patients. Where possible, students
participate in grand rounds, noon conferences and other clinically relevant didactic presentations.
PAS 6125 Behavioral and Mental Health Clerkship
This five week clinical course introduces the student to Behavioral Health Medicine This clinical rotation
allows the student the opportunity to develop skills in the evaluation and treatment of patient's
suffering from behavioral and/or psychiatric medical conditions in the confines of a behavioral medicine
hospital or outpatient clinic. The students will become involved in the care of persons experiencing a
spectrum of emotional, behavioral, and psychiatric problems. Emphasis is placed on refining the
student’s skills in performing history and physical exams, ordering and interpreting
laboratory/diagnostic tests, synthesizing information in establishing diagnosis, formulating and
implementing a treatment plan.
PAS 6200 Surgery Clerkship
This five week clinical course introduces the student to the General Surgery setting where the student is
exposed to common diseases treated by General Surgery practitioners
65
in conjunction with other
members of the health care team. Emphasis is placed on refining the student’s skills in performing
history and physical exams, ordering and interpreting laboratory/diagnostic tests, synthesizing
information in establishing diagnosis, formulating and implementing a treatment plan. They will be
exposed to routine and emergency surgical problems. Student will assess patients for common
postoperative complications and wound healing. There will operating room and non-operating room
surgical procedure exposure.
PAS 6300 Pediatrics Clerkship
This five week pediatric medicine clinical course will introduce students to childhood illnesses and
normal variations of growth and development. Emphasis is placed on refining the student’s skills in
performing history and physical exams, ordering and interpreting laboratory/diagnostic tests,
synthesizing information in establishing diagnosis, formulating and implementing a treatment plan in
the pediatric and adolescent patient.
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
64
B3.06
65
B3.06
100
PAS 6400 Family Medicine Clerkship
This five week clinical course introduces the student to the Family Medicine setting where the
student is exposed to common diseases treated by Family Medicine practitioners in conjunction
with other members of the health care team. Emphasis is placed on refining the student’s skills
in performing history and physical exams, ordering and interpreting laboratory/diagnostic tests,
synthesizing information in establishing diagnosis, formulating and implementing a treatment
plan. The student will begin to appreciate the long term impact of health care on patients‟
lives, and becomes more skilled in preventive health care and the long term management of
chronic medical conditions
PAS 6500 Women’s Health Clerkship
This five week clinical course introduces the student to the Women’s Health. The purpose of
this rotation is to provide the physician assistant student with a solid foundation in the
diagnosis and management of common obstetric and gynecologic conditions as well as health
care maintenance and disease prevention for women. The rotation focuses on the health care
of women during the reproductive and post-reproductive years. The course emphasizes care of
the pregnant female, normal labor and delivery, common obstetrical and gynecologic problems,
preventive care, screening for gynecologic malignancies, and family planning and sexuality.
Emphasis is placed on refining the student’s skills in performing history and physical exams,
ordering and interpreting laboratory/diagnostic tests, synthesizing information in establishing
diagnosis, formulating and implementing a treatment plan.
PAS 6600 Emergency Medicine Clerkship
This five week clinical course introduces the student to the Emergency Medicine setting. This
allows the student to develop skills in managing patients in the emergency department setting
These skills include those necessary for appropriate triage, stabilization, and initial
management of patients with traumatic injuries and illnesses, the management of the less life
threatening problems which present to the emergency room, working with the pre-hospital
emergency medical service team, and making appropriate secondary referrals. Emphasis is
placed on refining the student’s skills in performing history and physical exams, ordering and
interpreting laboratory/diagnostic tests, synthesizing information in establishing diagnosis,
formulating and implementing a treatment plan.
PAS 6940 Elective Clerkship
Two five week clinical courses provides the student practical clinical exposure and knowledge,
whether in an area of primary care or specialty medicine. Emphasis is placed on refining the
student’s skills in performing history and physical exams, ordering and interpreting
laboratory/diagnostic tests, synthesizing information in establishing diagnosis, formulating and
implementing a treatment plan within a subspecialty or primary care.
101
Clinical Site Affiliation Agreements
66
The PA Program is committed to the continuous development of clinical sites. The evaluation,
selection and eventual approval of a clinical site is a rigorous process, this is to ensure that the
site provides the clinical experience requisite to Physician Assistant education. The PA Program
requires current, formal, finalized and fully executed affiliation agreements between all clinical
sites and USF MCOM. These agreements are legal documents that delineate academic, physical,
clinical, and liability issues. This process is solely the responsibility of the PA Program. Students
are not allowed to negotiate an affiliation with a clinical site.
If a student knows of a potential clinical site, the name, business address, email address,
contact phone and fax numbers of the potential site are to be forwarded to the PA Clinical
Director. The Clinical Director will then start that evaluation process to determine if the site is
suitable. All potential clinical sites must be willing to precept other PA Program students in the
future.
Students will not be assigned to nor will be allowed to attend any clinical site unless a current
and fully executed affiliation agreement is in place. A violation of this policy by any student will
result in an immediate referral to the PA Program Academic Progress and Professionalism
Review Sub-Committee (APPC) or disciplinary action.
Students with questions or concerns about the above issues should immediately consult the PA
Program Clinical Director.
Student Identification
67
USF MCOM identification badges as well as a short white lab coat with the USF MCOM Seal
Patch the student’s name and PA Program name embroidered on the left chest, above the
pocket, must be worn at all times while on campus and during clinical experiences.
Students may be required to wear a separate security I.D. badge at clinical sites. The clinical
site(s) will make arrangements for you during orientation prior to beginning the rotation.
PA students must always and only identify themselves as “physician assistant students” to
faculty, patients, clinical site staff, and never present themselves as physicians, residents,
medical students, or graduate physician assistants. While in the USF MCOM PA program,
students may not use previously earned titles (i.e. RN, MD, DO, EMT, Ph.D., Dr. etc.) for
identification purposes.
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
66
A1.02, A3.03, C4.01, C4.02
67
B3.01
102
Program Responsibilities
68
The PA Program is committed to:
• The continuous development of clinical sites that provide clinical experiences requisite
for Physician Assistant education
• Providing sufficient clinical sites for the PA Program’s required clinical practice
experiences
• Monitoring and updating affiliation agreements, clinical preceptor licenses,
certifications, resumes and any other documentation related to the clinical phase
• Providing clinical preceptors and sites a thorough orientation on Physician Assistant
education, clearly delineating what are the PA Program’s goals and expectations.
• Providing students a thorough orientation to the clinical phase of the program, clearly
delineating the PA Program’s goals and expectations.
• Providing students and clinical preceptor’s clerkship specific syllabi with clear learning
objectives and goals.
• Being available to students and clinical preceptors to answer any question regarding
policy and procedure or intervene should any problem arise
• Monitoring and assessing the student’s progress and achievement of the goals and
objectives at the mid-point and the end of each clerkship.
• Monitoring and assessing that each clinical preceptor provides a high quality clinical
experience
• Provide remediation and support for those students who are not achieving the goals
and objectives of the clinical clerkship
• Abide by the policies and procedures set forth in this manual.
Note: Students must not substitute for clinical or administrative staff during supervised
clinical practical experiences.
69
Preceptor’s Responsibilities
Preceptor responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Orient students at the onset of the rotation with the practice/site policies and
procedures and review the expectations and objectives for the rotation
• Provide ongoing and timely feedback regarding clinical performance, knowledge base,
and critical thinking skills. This can be done with the student informally each week or at
a designated time and can be formally reported to the clinical coordinator by submitting
mid-rotation and end-of-rotation evaluations
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
68
A1.11, A2.16, C4.01 C4.02.
69
A3.06
103
• Supervise, demonstrate, teach, and observe clinical activities in order to aid in the
development of clinical skills and ensure proper patient care
• Delegate to the student increasing levels of responsibility for clinical assessment and
management as appropriate to the student’s experience and expertise
• Participate in the evaluation of clinical skills and medical knowledge base through the
following mechanisms:
o Direct supervision, observation, and teaching in the clinical setting
o Direct evaluation of presentations (including both oral and written)
o Assignment of outside readings and research to promote further learning
• Dialogue with faculty during site visits to evaluate student progress and assist the
learning process
• Audit and co-sign charts in order to evaluate the student’s ability to write appropriate
and complete progress notes, histories, physical examinations, assessments, and
treatment plans
• Complete the student’s electronic Clinical Performance Evaluation via E*value no later
than the last day of the clerkship
• Promptly notify the PA Program of any circumstances that might interfere with the
accomplishment of the above goals or diminish the overall training experience
• Maintain an ethical approach to the care of patients by serving as a role model for the
student
• Demonstrate cultural competency through interactions with patients
• Spend a few minutes each week in a candid summary discussion with the student as to
whether each is meeting the other’s needs and expectations, and what changes need to
be made in the roles and relationship
• Provide timely feedback to the student and the program regarding student performance
Note: Students must not substitute for clinical or administrative staff during supervised
clinical practical experiences.
70
ARC-PA Standards, fourth edition
70
A3.06
104
CONFIDENTIAL
Request for an Excused Absence from an Examination
Physician Assistant Program
TO: Academic Director Date Request
Submitted__________________
Name of Student_____________________________________________
Exam Excuse Requested_______________________________________
Date of Exam________________________________________________
Reason(s) for Request:
Program Action:
_____ Absence is Excused _____ Absence is not Excused
Name of Reviewing Official_________________________________________
Signature of Official_______________________________________________
Date of Decision_____________________________
Comments:_________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
105
CONFIDENTIAL
Absence Report Form
Physician Assistant Program
TO: Academic Director Date Request
Submitted__________________
Name of Student_____________________________________________
Class Missed_______________________________________
Date of Absence________________________________________________
Reason(s) for Absence:
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Program Action:
_____ Absence is Excused _____ Absence is not Excused
Name of Reviewing Official_________________________________________
Signature of Official_______________________________________________
Date of Decision_____________________________
Comments:_________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
106
MORSANI COLLEGE OF MEDICINE
Acknowledgement of Receipt of PA Program Student Handbook
By signing this form, you acknowledge receipt of your PA Program Student Handbook from the
University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine Physician Assistant Program.
I acknowledge that I have received the PA Program’s Student Handbook. I understand that
the program’s policies and procedures are contained in this handbook. I understand it is
my responsibility to review the policies and procedures herein. I further acknowledge that I
will be alerted to any changes to the handbook and a link to the on-line version of the
handbook will be sent to me via my university’s email address. It is my responsibility check
my university handbook regularly and to review any changes as soon as possible.
PRINTED NAME: ______________________________________________________
(Last) (First) (Middle)
SIGNATURE: ______________________________ DATE: _______________
