Physician Assistant Programs in Tampa, Florida

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Becoming a Physician Assistant in Tampa, Florida

Embarking on a career as a Physician Assistant (PA) in Tampa, Florida, offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute significantly to healthcare. PAs are highly trained medical professionals who work collaboratively with physicians to provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services. This guide will explore the educational pathways, local PA programs, and employment opportunities in Tampa, along with the certification and licensure requirements specific to Florida.

About Tampa

Tampa, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a vibrant city known for its cultural diversity, historic neighborhoods, and thriving business district. With attractions such as the Tampa Riverwalk, Busch Gardens, and the historic Ybor City, Tampa offers a dynamic environment for both living and learning. For more information about the city, visit the City of Tampa’s official website.

PA Programs in Tampa, Florida

Tampa hosts several reputable institutions offering Physician Assistant programs. Here are three notable programs:

1. University of South Florida (USF)
   • Location: North Tampa
   • Program Overview: USF offers a Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program designed to prepare students for clinical practice. The program emphasizes evidence-based medicine and patient-centered care.
   • Program Page: USF PA Program
2. South University, Tampa
   • Location: Westshore
   • Program Overview: South University provides a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies, focusing on developing clinical skills and medical knowledge necessary for effective patient care.
   • Program Page: South University PA Program
3. Nova Southeastern University (NSU) – Tampa Bay Regional Campus
   • Location: Clearwater (approximately 20 miles from Tampa)
   • Program Overview: NSU offers a comprehensive PA program that integrates classroom instruction with clinical experiences across various medical settings.
   • Program Page: NSU PA Program

PA Employment Opportunities in Tampa

Tampa is home to several major healthcare facilities offering employment opportunities for PAs:

1. Tampa General Hospital
   • Location: Davis Islands
   • Overview: As one of Florida’s largest hospitals, Tampa General provides a wide range of medical services and is a leading teaching hospital.
   • Employment Page: Tampa General Careers
2. BayCare Health System
   • Location: Clearwater (headquarters)
   • Overview: BayCare is a leading not-for-profit health care system that includes hospitals, outpatient facilities, and services throughout the Tampa Bay area.
   • Employment Page: BayCare Careers
3. AdventHealth Tampa
   • Location: North Tampa
   • Overview: Part of the AdventHealth network, this facility offers comprehensive services and is known for its innovative care and community involvement.
   • Employment Page: AdventHealth Careers

Prerequisites for PA Programs

To enroll in a PA program, candidates typically need:

• Bachelor’s Degree: From a U.S. regionally accredited institution.
• Prerequisite Courses: Including biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, statistics, English composition, humanities/social sciences, biochemistry, and medical terminology.
• Direct Patient Care Experience: Between 500 to 1000 hours, depending on the program.
• CASPA Application: Submission through the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants.
• GRE Scores: Required by many programs.
• Letters of Reference: Typically three, including one from a licensed clinical provider.
• CASPer Test: Required by some programs.

PA Certification and Licensure Requirements in Florida

To practice as a PA in Florida, the following steps are necessary:

• Graduate from an Accredited Program: Accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).
• National Certification: Pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).
• State Licensure: Apply through the Florida Board of Medicine, including a diploma, PANCE score, background screening, and application fee.

Get Started Today

Pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant in Tampa, Florida, is a fulfilling path that combines rigorous education with practical experience. With a variety of PA programs and employment opportunities available, aspiring PAs are well-positioned to make a significant impact in the healthcare field. Begin your journey today by reaching out to local schools and exploring the possibilities that await in this dynamic profession.