Upon completion of the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University Physician Assistant Program, a student is expected to have achieved the following Program defined competencies:
Medical Knowledge
- Demonstrate the fund of general medical knowledge needed to practice medicine in a primary care setting while acknowledging the specific needs of the patient.
- Counsel and educate for disease prevention and promotion of healthy lifestyle.
- Provide care across the lifespan, regardless of medical condition, gender, race, ethnicity, or other diverse quality.
Clinical and Technical Skills
- Conduct a thorough patient-centered history and physical examination for a comprehensive and problem-focused patient encounter.
- Perform clinical skills at a skill level considered essential for an entry level physician assistant.
Clinical Reasoning and Problem-Solving Abilities
- Draw upon their fund of medical knowledge to formulate a differential diagnosis.
- Develop an appropriate management plan using evidence-based medicine, clinical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
- Critically appraise medical literature to answer a proposed research question.
Interpersonal Skills
- Use effective communication skills to elicit and provide information, developing a rapport with patients and/or their advocates.
- Demonstrate effective communication skills necessary to work with all members of the health care team.
- Demonstrate cultural humility and responsiveness to a diverse patient population.
Professional Behaviors
- Demonstrate professional behaviors needed to practice medicine.