Physician Assistant Programs in Portland, Maine

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Becoming a Physician Assistant in Portland, Maine

Embarking on a career as a Physician Assistant (PA) in Portland, Maine, offers a rewarding opportunity to make a significant impact in healthcare. PAs are vital members of medical teams, providing diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services under the supervision of physicians. This guide outlines the steps and local resources available for aspiring PAs in Portland, Maine.

About Portland

Portland, Maine, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, bustling arts scene, and picturesque waterfront. As the largest city in Maine, Portland offers a blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. For more information about the city, visit the official Portland website. Key landmarks include the historic Old Port district and the scenic Eastern Promenade.

PA Programs in Portland, Maine

While Portland itself may not have a wide array of PA programs, nearby institutions offer excellent opportunities for aspiring PAs:

1. University of New England (UNE) – Portland Campus
   • Located in the Biddeford neighborhood, UNE offers a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. The program emphasizes interprofessional education and clinical experience. More details can be found on the UNE PA Program page.
2. Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) – Manchester Campus
   • Approximately 90 miles from Portland, MCPHS offers a comprehensive PA program focusing on clinical practice and patient care. Learn more about their offerings on the MCPHS PA Program page.
3. Tufts University School of Medicine – Boston Campus
   • Located about 110 miles from Portland, Tufts provides a rigorous PA program with a strong emphasis on research and clinical skills. Visit the Tufts PA Program page for more information.

PA Employment Opportunities in Portland

Portland is home to several prominent healthcare facilities offering employment opportunities for PAs:

• Maine Medical Center
  • Situated in the West End neighborhood, Maine Medical Center is the largest hospital in Maine, providing a wide range of services and specialties. Explore job opportunities at Maine Medical Center’s careers page.
• Mercy Hospital
  • Located in the Back Cove neighborhood, Mercy Hospital is known for its patient-centered care and community involvement. Visit the Mercy Hospital careers page for current openings.
• InterMed
  • With facilities in the downtown area, InterMed offers multi-specialty healthcare services and is a significant employer for PAs. Check out their employment opportunities.

Prerequisites for PA Programs

To enroll in a PA program, candidates typically need:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Completion of prerequisite coursework in subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy, and Statistics.
• Healthcare experience, often required by PA programs.
• A competitive GPA and potentially GRE scores.

PA Certification and Licensure Requirements in Maine

In Maine, aspiring PAs must:

• Pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) to earn the PA-C credential.
• Apply for licensure through the Maine Board of Licensure in Medicine, including an online exam on state laws.

Licensure Reciprocity

Maine does not have specific licensure reciprocity agreements with other states. PAs moving to Maine must meet all state-specific licensure requirements.

Get Started Today

Pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant in Portland, Maine, is a fulfilling journey that begins with the right education and training. Contact a local PA program today to learn more about admission requirements and take the first step toward a rewarding healthcare career.