Physician Assistant Programs in Gainesville, Florida

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Becoming a Physician Assistant in Gainesville, Florida

Embarking on a career as a Physician Assistant (PA) in Gainesville, Florida, offers a fulfilling opportunity to make a significant impact in healthcare. PAs are vital members of medical teams, providing diagnostic and therapeutic patient care under the supervision of physicians. This guide explores the pathways to becoming a PA, including educational programs, employment opportunities, and certification requirements.

About Gainesville

Gainesville, located in North Central Florida, is known for its vibrant community and rich cultural heritage. Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville offers a blend of academic excellence and natural beauty, with numerous parks and trails. For more information about the city, visit the City of Gainesville’s official website.

PA Programs in Gainesville, Florida

Gainesville offers several reputable PA programs for aspiring physician assistants:

1. University of Florida – School of Physician Assistant Studies
   • Located in the heart of Gainesville, the University of Florida offers a Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in medical sciences and clinical practice. For more details, visit the University of Florida’s PA program page.
2. Santa Fe College – Health Sciences
   • While Santa Fe College does not offer a full PA program, it provides foundational courses that can prepare students for PA school. Located in the Northwest neighborhood, Santa Fe College is a stepping stone for those aiming to enter PA programs.

For those willing to travel a bit further, consider these nearby options:

1. Nova Southeastern University – Orlando Campus
   • Approximately 100 miles from Gainesville, Nova Southeastern University offers a comprehensive PA program in Orlando. The program focuses on preparing students for diverse clinical settings. Learn more at the Nova Southeastern University PA program page.

PA Employment Opportunities in Gainesville

Gainesville hosts several prominent healthcare facilities offering employment opportunities for PAs:

1. UF Health Shands Hospital
   • Located in the University of Florida’s Health Science Center, UF Health Shands Hospital is a leading academic medical center. It offers a range of specialties and is a significant employer for PAs. Visit their careers page for more information.
2. North Florida Regional Medical Center
   • Situated in the Northwest neighborhood, North Florida Regional Medical Center is a comprehensive healthcare facility offering numerous opportunities for PAs. Explore their employment opportunities for more details.
3. Malcom Randall VA Medical Center
   • This facility provides healthcare services to veterans and is part of the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System. It is located near the University of Florida campus. For career opportunities, visit the VA careers page.

Prerequisites for PA Programs

Prospective PA students typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• Education: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• GPA: A minimum GPA, often around 3.0.
• Coursework: Courses in biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology.
• Healthcare Experience: Clinical experience, such as working as a medical assistant or EMT.
• Entrance Exams: Some programs require the GRE.

PA Certification and Licensure Requirements in Florida

In Florida, PAs must meet specific educational and certification requirements:

• Education: Graduation from an ARC-PA accredited program is mandatory.
• Certification: Passing the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) is required. Visit the NCCPA website for more information.
• Licensure: Submit an application and fees to the Florida Department of Health. Details are available on the Florida Board of Medicine’s licensure page.

Continuing Education and Additional Requirements

Florida requires PAs to complete continuing education for license renewal. Specific courses include medical error prevention and domestic violence. For detailed requirements, refer to the Florida Board of Medicine’s continuing education page.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Physician Assistant in Gainesville, Florida, is a rewarding journey that combines rigorous education with practical experience. With a variety of local programs and employment opportunities, aspiring PAs are well-positioned to succeed. Contact a school today to begin your path toward a fulfilling career in healthcare.