Physician Assistant Programs in Los Angeles, California

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Becoming a Physician Assistant in Los Angeles, California

Embarking on a career as a Physician Assistant (PA) in Los Angeles, California, offers a rewarding path in the healthcare field. PAs are vital members of medical teams, providing diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services under the supervision of physicians. This guide outlines the steps to becoming a PA, including education paths, certification, and licensure requirements.

About Los Angeles

Los Angeles, known for its vibrant culture and diverse communities, is a bustling metropolis in Southern California. Home to iconic landmarks such as the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles offers a dynamic environment for healthcare professionals. For more information about the city, visit the official Los Angeles website.

PA Programs in Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles hosts several reputable PA programs, providing excellent training opportunities for aspiring PAs:

1. University of Southern California (USC) – Keck School of Medicine
   • Located in the Health Sciences Campus, USC offers a Master of Physician Assistant Practice program. The curriculum emphasizes clinical skills and patient care. USC PA Program
2. Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science
   • Situated in the Watts neighborhood, this university offers a Master of Health Science in Physician Assistant Studies. The program focuses on serving underserved communities. CDU PA Program
3. Western University of Health Sciences
   • Located in Pomona, approximately 30 miles east of Los Angeles, this program offers a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for diverse healthcare settings. WesternU PA Program

PA Employment Opportunities in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is home to numerous healthcare facilities offering employment opportunities for PAs:

1. Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
   • Located in Beverly Grove, Cedars-Sinai is a leading healthcare provider known for its comprehensive services and research initiatives. Cedars-Sinai Careers
2. UCLA Health
   • Situated in Westwood, UCLA Health is renowned for its patient care and medical research. It offers diverse opportunities for PAs across various specialties. UCLA Health Careers
3. Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center
   • Located in East Hollywood, this facility is part of the Kaiser Permanente network, providing integrated healthcare services. Kaiser Permanente Careers

Prerequisites for PA Programs

To enroll in a PA program, candidates typically need:

• A bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA, often around 3.0.
• Completion of prerequisite coursework in subjects such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy.
• Healthcare experience, often required or preferred.
• Successful completion of the GRE, if required by the program.

PA Certification and Licensure Requirements in California

In California, PAs must meet specific certification and licensure requirements:

• Education and Training: Complete a PA program accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) and approved by the Physician Assistant Board (PAB).
• Certification: Pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) administered by the NCCPA. Recertification is required every ten years, with ongoing CME every two years.
• State Licensure: Apply through the BreEZe online services system, submit a PA training program certification, authorize PANCE score release, and obtain an NPDB Self-Query Report. Physician Assistant Board

Licensure Reciprocity

California does not have specific licensure reciprocity agreements for PAs with other states. However, PAs moving from other states must meet California’s licensure requirements.

Get Started Today

Pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant in Los Angeles, California, is an exciting journey. With numerous educational and employment opportunities, aspiring PAs are well-positioned to make a significant impact in healthcare. Contact a local PA program today to take the first step toward this rewarding career.