Fall Semester 1
Introduction to Clinical Skills
Credits: 1
Introduction to Clinical Skills is the first of a five part course sequence which provides hands-on training for clinical procedures common in current professional practice. Using low instructor-student ratios and medium- and high-fidelity manikins, students will gain familiarity with a range of clinical procedures while developing their bedside manner and confidence. Team-based care principles will be taught through formative simulation experiences. The Clinical Skills series has been carefully organized to present material system by system to promote interaction of material from parallel courses in the curriculum, i.e. Clinical Medicine, History & Physical, and Body, Mind, Spirit.
Clinical Anatomy
Credits: 2
Clinical Anatomy is a review of clinically relevant human anatomy using a regional approach. Lecture and three dimensional laboratory components of this course emphasize the clinical relevance of each anatomical area considered. Nonpathological radiological anatomy is reviewed.
Introduction to Biomedical and Clinical Medicine
Credits: 4.5
This course provides a foundation in recognizing the differences between normal and disease states by integrating basic concepts in genetics, molecular biology, microbiology, physiology and pathology. Emphasis is placed on studying the various mechanisms of disease etiology and how they relate to pharmacotherapeutic intervention. Basic pharmaco*kinetic and pharmacodynamics principles are covered in this course, along with autonomic pharmacology; analgesics; anti-neoplastic agents; and immune-modulating therapies.
Introduction to Body-Mind-Spirit Seminar
Credits: 2
The Intro to Body, Mind and Spirit Seminar is the first in a series is a four course series that exposes the student to seminal material germane to the role of the practicing physician assistant. Foundational topics in the following areas will be presented over the four sessions in this course series: Professionalism (including intellectual honesty); Cross Culturalism and Care of Diverse Patient Populations; Bias in Medical Care Delivery; Interprofessional Team Concepts; Healthcare Delivery Systems; Evaluation of the Medical Literature; Concepts of Public Health; Patient Safety and Prevention of Medical Errors; Ethical Practice; Patient and Practitioner Wellness; PA-Physician Team Practice; PA Professional Issues; Development and History of the PA Profession and Spirituality in Medicine.
Introduction to Patient Assessment
Credits: 3.5
Introduction to Patient Assessment provides fundamental methods for obtaining and presenting a complete screening medical history and physical examination. Techniques for conducting a physical examination are covered. Instructional methods include lecture, group discussion, role-playing, and labs. Students conduct interviews and physical examinations under supervision. Students are expected to spend additional time outside of class performing physical exams, and preparing for presenting case information and findings.
Clinical Medicine: EENT
Credits: 4
The Clinical Medicine series is a twelve course series that provides physician assistant students a systems-based education on health promotion and disease prevention, and patient evaluation, diagnosis, and management across the lifespan. Building upon the material that is presented in the foundations of medicine courses in Fall session 1, each course in the clinical medicine series will provide instruction covering a specific body system, developing an understanding of the pathophysiologic basis of disease (including genetics and molecular mechanisms of disease), generating systems-specific differential diagnoses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic studies, and formulating and implementing pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment plans. Special emphasis will be given to the major principles of pharmacology, including concepts of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination. Medications covered will include those most commonly used in the care and treatment of the system-specific conditions.
Clinical Medicine: Pulmonology
Credits: 4
The Clinical Medicine series is a twelve course series that provides physician assistant students a systems-based education on health promotion and disease prevention, and patient evaluation, diagnosis, and management across the lifespan. Building upon the material that is presented in the foundations of medicine courses in Fall session 1, each course in the clinical medicine series will provide instruction covering a specific body system, developing an understanding of the pathophysiologic basis of disease (including genetics and molecular mechanisms of disease), generating systems-specific differential diagnoses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic studies, and formulating and implementing pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment plans. Special emphasis will be given to the major principles of pharmacology, including concepts of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination. Medications covered will include those most commonly used in the care and treatment of the system-specific conditions.
Clinical Medicine: Cardiology
Credits: 8
The Clinical Medicine series is a twelve course series that provides physician assistant students a systems-based education on health promotion and disease prevention, and patient evaluation, diagnosis, and management across the lifespan. Building upon the material that is presented in the foundations of medicine courses in Fall session 1, each course in the clinical medicine series will provide instruction covering a specific body system, developing an understanding of the pathophysiologic basis of disease (including genetics and molecular mechanisms of disease), generating systems-specific differential diagnoses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic studies, and formulating and implementing pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment plans. Special emphasis will be given to the major principles of pharmacology, including concepts of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination. Medications covered will include those most commonly used in the care and treatment of the system-specific conditions.
History & Physical Examination I
Credits: 2
The History and Physical Examination series is a four course series that provides physician assistant students with techniques of taking a patient history and performing a physical examination. This course will also teach the PA student the proper use of medical diagnostic equipment, selected clinical procedures and effective skills for communicating with patients, their families and other health professionals. Students will learn and practice basic counseling and patient education skills. The courses will include classroom activities, laboratory sessions and clinical experiences.
Body, Mind and Spirit I
Credits: 1
The Body, Mind and Spirit Seminar series is a four course series that exposes the student to seminal material germane to the role of the practicing physician assistant. Foundational topics in the following areas will be presented over the four sessions in this course series: Professionalism (including intellectual honesty); Cross Culturalism and Care of Diverse Patient Populations; Bias in Medical Care Delivery; Interprofessional Team Concepts; Healthcare Delivery Systems; Evaluation of the Medical Literature; Concepts of Public Health; Patient Safety and Prevention of Medical Errors; Ethical Practice; Patient and Practitioner Wellness; PA-Physician Team Practice; PA Professional Issues; Development and History of the PA Profession and Spirituality in Medicine.
Clinical Medicine Practicum I
Credits: 1
The Clinical Medicine Practicum series is a four course sequence which places students in supervised clinical patient care settings throughout their didactic education in preparation for the clinical year. Students will learn the art of medicine from PAs, physicians, and other healthcare providers in a variety of care environments and specialties.
Clinical Skills I
Credits: 1
The Clinical Skills series is a five course sequence which provides hands-on training for clinical procedures common in current professional practice. Using low instructor-student ratios and medium- and high-fidelity manikins, students will gain familiarity with a range of clinical procedures while developing their bedside manner and confidence. Team-based care principles will be taught through formative simulation experiences. All students will obtain ACLS certification during this course sequence.
Spring Semester
Clinical Medicine: Healthcare for Special Populations
Credits: 2
The Clinical Medicine series is a twelve course series that provides physician assistant students a systems-based education on health promotion and disease prevention, and patient evaluation, diagnosis, and management across the lifespan. Building upon the material that is presented in the foundations of medicine courses in Fall session 1, each course in the clinical medicine series will provide instruction covering a specific body system, developing an understanding of the pathophysiologic basis of disease (including genetics and molecular mechanisms of disease), generating systems-specific differential diagnoses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic studies, and formulating and implementing pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment plans. Special emphasis will be given to the major principles of pharmacology, including concepts of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination. Medications covered will include those most commonly used in the care and treatment of the system-specific conditions.
Clinical Medicine: Endocrinology
Credits: 4
The Clinical Medicine series is a twelve course series that provides physician assistant students a systems-based education on health promotion and disease prevention, and patient evaluation, diagnosis, and management across the lifespan. Building upon the material that is presented in the foundations of medicine courses in Fall session 1, each course in the clinical medicine series will provide instruction covering a specific body system, developing an understanding of the pathophysiologic basis of disease (including genetics and molecular mechanisms of disease), generating systems-specific differential diagnoses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic studies, and formulating and implementing pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment plans. Special emphasis will be given to the major principles of pharmacology, including concepts of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination. Medications covered will include those most commonly used in the care and treatment of the system-specific conditions.
Clinical Medicine: Gastroenterology
Credits: 7
The Clinical Medicine series is a twelve course series that provides physician assistant students a systems-based education on health promotion and disease prevention, and patient evaluation, diagnosis, and management across the lifespan. Building upon the material that is presented in the foundations of medicine courses in Fall session 1, each course in the clinical medicine series will provide instruction covering a specific body system, developing an understanding of the pathophysiologic basis of disease (including genetics and molecular mechanisms of disease), generating systems-specific differential diagnoses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic studies, and formulating and implementing pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment plans. Special emphasis will be given to the major principles of pharmacology, including concepts of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination. Medications covered will include those most commonly used in the care and treatment of the system-specific conditions.
Clinical Medicine: Dermatology
Credits: 2
The Clinical Medicine series is a twelve course series that provides physician assistant students a systems-based education on health promotion and disease prevention, and patient evaluation, diagnosis, and management across the lifespan. Building upon the material that is presented in the foundations of medicine courses in Fall session 1, each course in the clinical medicine series will provide instruction covering a specific body system, developing an understanding of the pathophysiologic basis of disease (including genetics and molecular mechanisms of disease), generating systems-specific differential diagnoses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic studies, and formulating and implementing pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment plans. Special emphasis will be given to the major principles of pharmacology, including concepts of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination. Medications covered will include those most commonly used in the care and treatment of the system-specific conditions.
History & Physical Examination II
Credits: 2
The History and Physical Examination series is a four course series that provides physician assistant students with techniques of taking a patient history and performing a physical examination. This course will also teach the PA student the proper use of medical diagnostic equipment, selected clinical procedures and effective skills for communicating with patients, their families and other health professionals. Students will learn and practice basic counseling and patient education skills. The courses will include classroom activities, laboratory sessions and clinical experiences.
Body, Mind and Spirit II
Credits: 1
The Body, Mind and Spirit Seminar series is a four course series that exposes the student to seminal material germane to the role of the practicing physician assistant. Foundational topics in the following areas will be presented over the four sessions in this course series: Professionalism (including intellectual honesty); Cross Culturalism and Care of Diverse Patient Populations; Bias in Medical Care Delivery; Interprofessional Team Concepts; Healthcare Delivery Systems; Evaluation of the Medical Literature; Concepts of Public Health; Patient Safety and Prevention of Medical Errors; Ethical Practice; Patient and Practitioner Wellness; PA-Physician Team Practice; PA Professional Issues; Development and History of the PA Profession and Spirituality in Medicine.
Clinical Medicine Practicum II
Credits: 1
The Clinical Medicine Practicum series is a four course sequence which places students in supervised clinical patient care settings throughout their didactic education in preparation for the clinical year. Students will learn the art of medicine from PAs, physicians, and other healthcare providers in a variety of care environments and specialties.
Clinical Skills II
Credits: 1
The Clinical Skills series is a five course sequence which provides hands-on training for clinical procedures common in current professional practice. Using low instructor-student ratios and medium- and high-fidelity manikins, students will gain familiarity with a range of clinical procedures while developing their bedside manner and confidence. Team-based care principles will be taught through formative simulation experiences. All students will obtain ACLS certification during this course sequence.
Clinical Medicine: Musculoskeletal
Credits: 6
The Clinical Medicine series is a twelve course series that provides physician assistant students a systems-based education on health promotion and disease prevention, and patient evaluation, diagnosis, and management across the lifespan. Building upon the material that is presented in the foundations of medicine courses in Fall session 1, each course in the clinical medicine series will provide instruction covering a specific body system, developing an understanding of the pathophysiologic basis of disease (including genetics and molecular mechanisms of disease), generating systems-specific differential diagnoses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic studies, and formulating and implementing pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment plans. Special emphasis will be given to the major principles of pharmacology, including concepts of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination. Medications covered will include those most commonly used in the care and treatment of the system-specific conditions.
Clinical Medicine: Neurology
Credits: 5
The Clinical Medicine series is a twelve course series that provides physician assistant students a systems-based education on health promotion and disease prevention, and patient evaluation, diagnosis, and management across the lifespan. Building upon the material that is presented in the foundations of medicine courses in Fall session 1, each course in the clinical medicine series will provide instruction covering a specific body system, developing an understanding of the pathophysiologic basis of disease (including genetics and molecular mechanisms of disease), generating systems-specific differential diagnoses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic studies, and formulating and implementing pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment plans. Special emphasis will be given to the major principles of pharmacology, including concepts of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination. Medications covered will include those most commonly used in the care and treatment of the system-specific conditions.
Clinical Medicine: Behavioral Health
Credits: 3
The Clinical Medicine series is a twelve course series that provides physician assistant students a systems-based education on health promotion and disease prevention, and patient evaluation, diagnosis, and management across the lifespan. Building upon the material that is presented in the foundations of medicine courses in Fall session 1, each course in the clinical medicine series will provide instruction covering a specific body system, developing an understanding of the pathophysiologic basis of disease (including genetics and molecular mechanisms of disease), generating systems-specific differential diagnoses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic studies, and formulating and implementing pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment plans. Special emphasis will be given to the major principles of pharmacology, including concepts of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination. Medications covered will include those most commonly used in the care and treatment of the system-specific conditions.
History & Physical Examination III
Credits: 2
The History and Physical Examination series is a four course series that provides physician assistant students with techniques of taking a patient history and performing a physical examination. This course will also teach the PA student the proper use of medical diagnostic equipment, selected clinical procedures and effective skills for communicating with patients, their families and other health professionals. Students will learn and practice basic counseling and patient education skills. The courses will include classroom activities, laboratory sessions and clinical experiences.
Body, Mind and Spirit III
Credits: 1
The Body, Mind and Spirit Seminar series is a four course series that exposes the student to seminal material germane to the role of the practicing physician assistant. Foundational topics in the following areas will be presented over the four sessions in this course series: Professionalism (including intellectual honesty); Cross Culturalism and Care of Diverse Patient Populations; Bias in Medical Care Delivery; Interprofessional Team Concepts; Healthcare Delivery Systems; Evaluation of the Medical Literature; Concepts of Public Health; Patient Safety and Prevention of Medical Errors; Ethical Practice; Patient and Practitioner Wellness; PA-Physician Team Practice; PA Professional Issues; Development and History of the PA Profession and Spirituality in Medicine.
Clinical Medicine Practicum III
Credits: 1
The Clinical Medicine Practicum series is a four course sequence which places students in supervised clinical patient care settings throughout their didactic education in preparation for the clinical year. Students will learn the art of medicine from PAs, physicians, and other healthcare providers in a variety of care environments and specialties.
Clinical Skills III
Credits: 1
The Clinical Skills series is a five course sequence which provides hands-on training for clinical procedures common in current professional practice. Using low instructor-student ratios and medium- and high-fidelity manikins, students will gain familiarity with a range of clinical procedures while developing their bedside manner and confidence. Team-based care principles will be taught through formative simulation experiences. All students will obtain ACLS certification during this course sequence.
Fall Semester 2
Clinical Medicine: Nephrology & Urology
Credits: 4
The Clinical Medicine series is a twelve course series that provides physician assistant students a systems-based education on health promotion and disease prevention, and patient evaluation, diagnosis, and management across the lifespan. Building upon the material that is presented in the foundations of medicine courses in Fall session 1, each course in the clinical medicine series will provide instruction covering a specific body system, developing an understanding of the pathophysiologic basis of disease (including genetics and molecular mechanisms of disease), generating systems-specific differential diagnoses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic studies, and formulating and implementing pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment plans. Special emphasis will be given to the major principles of pharmacology, including concepts of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination. Medications covered will include those most commonly used in the care and treatment of the system-specific conditions.
History & Physical Examination IV
Credits: 1
The History and Physical Examination series is a four course series that provides physician assistant students with techniques of taking a patient history and performing a physical examination. This course will also teach the PA student the proper use of medical diagnostic equipment, selected clinical procedures and effective skills for communicating with patients, their families and other health professionals. Students will learn and practice basic counseling and patient education skills. The courses will include classroom activities, laboratory sessions and clinical experiences.
Clinical Medicine Practicum IV
Credits: 1
The fourth course in this series will prepare students for the clinical year through a series of orientation lectures, end of didactic PACKRAT and summative examinations, and lectures on evidence based medicine and literature review in preparation for the capstone project.
Clinical Skills IV
Credits: 1
The Clinical Skills series is a five course sequence which provides hands-on training for clinical procedures common in current professional practice. Using low instructor-student ratios and medium- and high-fidelity manikins, students will gain familiarity with a range of clinical procedures while developing their bedside manner and confidence. Team-based care principles will be taught through formative simulation experiences. All students will obtain ACLS certification during this course sequence.
Clinical Medicine: Women's Health
Credits: 4
Clinical experiences will average approximately 40 hours/week on site, in patient related care. Some clinical experiences may involve slightly shorter (no less than 36 hours/week) or longer hours (no more than 80 hours/week), evening, weekend or on-call responsibilities. The preceptor or clinical site will determine the student’s on-site schedule and clinical responsibilities. Students must adhere to each clinical experience schedule and to all assignments developed by the preceptor. If this is not possible in any given week at a specific clinical site, the student is to notify the clinical team in advance.Patient related care includes evaluating and treating patients, charting and appropriate paperwork (written or electronic), case presentations, discussions with the preceptor, and other duties as applicable.
Clinical Year
Elective
Credits: 5
Students will have the opportunity to complete an elective experience in an area of interest from the list of active preceptors in the program’s clinical database. Students are welcome to suggest a clinical site outside of the program’s available list that is consistent with the Department’s mission and within the current established geographic clinical locations (in Metro Phoenix or active CHC campuses). The program must approve all clinical experiences.
Family Practice
Credits: 5
Clinical experiences will average approximately 40 hours/week on site, in patient related care. Some clinical experiences may involve slightly shorter (no less than 36 hours/week) or longer hours (no more than 80 hours/week), evening, weekend or on-call responsibilities. The preceptor or clinical site will determine the student’s on-site schedule and clinical responsibilities. Students must adhere to each clinical experience schedule and to all assignments developed by the preceptor. If this is not possible in any given week at a specific clinical site, the student is to notify the clinical team in advance.Patient related care includes evaluating and treating patients, charting and appropriate paperwork (written or electronic), case presentations, discussions with the preceptor, and other duties as applicable.
Internal Medicine
Credits: 5
Clinical experiences will average approximately 40 hours/week on site, in patient related care. Some clinical experiences may involve slightly shorter (no less than 36 hours/week) or longer hours (no more than 80 hours/week), evening, weekend or on-call responsibilities. The preceptor or clinical site will determine the student’s on-site schedule and clinical responsibilities. Students must adhere to each clinical experience schedule and to all assignments developed by the preceptor. If this is not possible in any given week at a specific clinical site, the student is to notify the clinical team in advance.Patient related care includes evaluating and treating patients, charting and appropriate paperwork (written or electronic), case presentations, discussions with the preceptor, and other duties as applicable.
Pediatrics
Credits: 5
Clinical experiences will average approximately 40 hours/week on site, in patient related care. Some clinical experiences may involve slightly shorter (no less than 36 hours/week) or longer hours (no more than 80 hours/week), evening, weekend or on-call responsibilities. The preceptor or clinical site will determine the student’s on-site schedule and clinical responsibilities. Students must adhere to each clinical experience schedule and to all assignments developed by the preceptor. If this is not possible in any given week at a specific clinical site, the student is to notify the clinical team in advance.Patient related care includes evaluating and treating patients, charting and appropriate paperwork (written or electronic), case presentations, discussions with the preceptor, and other duties as applicable.
Emergency Medicine
Credits: 5
Clinical experiences will average approximately 40 hours/week on site, in patient related care. Some clinical experiences may involve slightly shorter (no less than 36 hours/week) or longer hours (no more than 80 hours/week), evening, weekend or on-call responsibilities. The preceptor or clinical site will determine the student’s on-site schedule and clinical responsibilities. Students must adhere to each clinical experience schedule and to all assignments developed by the preceptor. If this is not possible in any given week at a specific clinical site, the student is to notify the clinical team in advance.Patient related care includes evaluating and treating patients, charting and appropriate paperwork (written or electronic), case presentations, discussions with the preceptor, and other duties as applicable.
Clinical Medicine: Women's Health
Credits: 4
Clinical experiences will average approximately 40 hours/week on site, in patient related care. Some clinical experiences may involve slightly shorter (no less than 36 hours/week) or longer hours (no more than 80 hours/week), evening, weekend or on-call responsibilities. The preceptor or clinical site will determine the student’s on-site schedule and clinical responsibilities. Students must adhere to each clinical experience schedule and to all assignments developed by the preceptor. If this is not possible in any given week at a specific clinical site, the student is to notify the clinical team in advance.Patient related care includes evaluating and treating patients, charting and appropriate paperwork (written or electronic), case presentations, discussions with the preceptor, and other duties as applicable.
General Surgery
Credits: 5
Clinical experiences will average approximately 40 hours/week on site, in patient related care. Some clinical experiences may involve slightly shorter (no less than 36 hours/week) or longer hours (no more than 80 hours/week), evening, weekend or on-call responsibilities. The preceptor or clinical site will determine the student’s on-site schedule and clinical responsibilities. Students must adhere to each clinical experience schedule and to all assignments developed by the preceptor. If this is not possible in any given week at a specific clinical site, the student is to notify the clinical team in advance.Patient related care includes evaluating and treating patients, charting and appropriate paperwork (written or electronic), case presentations, discussions with the preceptor, and other duties as applicable.
Behavioral Health
Credits: 5
Clinical experiences will average approximately 40 hours/week on site, in patient related care. Some clinical experiences may involve slightly shorter (no less than 36 hours/week) or longer hours (no more than 80 hours/week), evening, weekend or on-call responsibilities. The preceptor or clinical site will determine the student’s on-site schedule and clinical responsibilities. Students must adhere to each clinical experience schedule and to all assignments developed by the preceptor. If this is not possible in any given week at a specific clinical site, the student is to notify the clinical team in advance.Patient related care includes evaluating and treating patients, charting and appropriate paperwork (written or electronic), case presentations, discussions with the preceptor, and other duties as applicable.
Transition to Practice
Credits: 3
This course is ongoing through the clinical year. It includes testing, Objective Structured Clinical Encounter (OSCE) and practical examinations, SOAP note assignments, summative evaluation, and preparation for the PANCE. Topics to prepare the student for practice as a licensed healthcare professional are covered including state licensure, DEA, malpractice, billing and coding, residencies and graduate PA training.
