Physician Assistant Programs in Riverside, California

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Becoming a Physician Assistant in Riverside, California

Embarking on a career as a Physician Assistant (PA) in Riverside, California, offers a fulfilling path in the healthcare sector. PAs are vital members of medical teams, working under the supervision of physicians to provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services. This guide outlines the educational paths, local PA programs, and employment opportunities available in Riverside, California.

About Riverside

Riverside, California, is a vibrant city located in the Inland Empire region. Known for its rich history and cultural diversity, Riverside offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living. The city is home to landmarks such as the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa and the Riverside Art Museum. For more information about Riverside, visit the official city website.

PA Programs in Riverside, California

Riverside offers several options for those pursuing a PA career. Here are some local programs:

1. California Baptist University
   Located in the heart of Riverside, California Baptist University offers a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to healthcare and prepares students for diverse medical environments. For more details, visit the program page.

2. Loma Linda University
   Approximately 10 miles from Riverside, Loma Linda University offers a comprehensive PA program known for its integration of faith and science. The program focuses on clinical skills and compassionate care. More information is available on their website.

3. Western University of Health Sciences
   Situated about 30 miles from Riverside in Pomona, Western University provides a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. The program is designed to develop competent and compassionate healthcare professionals. Visit the program page for more information.

PA Employment Opportunities in Riverside

Riverside hosts several major healthcare facilities offering employment opportunities for PAs:

• Riverside Community Hospital
  Located in the Magnolia Center neighborhood, Riverside Community Hospital is a leading healthcare provider offering a wide range of medical services. Explore career opportunities on their employment page.

• Kaiser Permanente Riverside Medical Center
  Situated in the Arlington neighborhood, this facility is part of the renowned Kaiser Permanente network, providing comprehensive healthcare services. Visit their careers page for job openings.

• Parkview Community Hospital Medical Center
  Found in the La Sierra neighborhood, Parkview Community Hospital offers a community-focused healthcare environment. Check their employment opportunities for available positions.

Prerequisites for PA Programs

To enroll in a PA program in Riverside, candidates typically need:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Completion of prerequisite courses such as Human Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, and Medical Terminology.
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a science GPA of 3.0.
• At least 1,000 hours of patient care experience.
• Shadowing experience with a PA, MD, or DO is recommended.

PA Certification and Licensure Requirements in California

To practice as a PA in California, candidates must:

• Graduate from an ARC-PA accredited program.
• Pass the PANCE to earn the PA-C designation.
• Apply for state licensure through the California Physician Assistant Board.

Licensure Reciprocity

California does not currently have formal licensure reciprocity agreements with other states. PAs moving to California must meet the state’s licensure requirements.

Get Started Today

Pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant in Riverside, California, is a rewarding endeavor. With a variety of educational programs and employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Contact a school today to begin your journey toward becoming a PA.