Physician Assistant Programs in Springfield, Missouri

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Becoming a Physician Assistant in Springfield, Missouri

Embarking on a career as a Physician Assistant (PA) in Springfield, Missouri, offers a rewarding path in the healthcare field. PAs are essential members of medical teams, providing diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services. This guide explores the educational paths, local PA programs, employment opportunities, and certification requirements necessary to become a PA in Springfield.

About Springfield

Springfield, Missouri, known as the “Queen City of the Ozarks,” is a vibrant city with a rich history and a strong sense of community. It is home to several cultural landmarks, including the Springfield Art Museum and the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium. For more information about Springfield, visit the official city website.

PA Programs in Springfield, Missouri

Springfield offers excellent educational opportunities for aspiring PAs. Here are the local PA programs available:

• Missouri State University: Located in the heart of Springfield, Missouri State University offers a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. This 24-month program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) and includes both didactic and clinical phases. For more details, visit the Missouri State University PA Program page.

If you’re considering options outside Springfield, here are some nearby programs:

• University of Missouri – Kansas City: Approximately 165 miles from Springfield, this program offers a comprehensive PA education with a focus on primary care. More information can be found on their PA program page.

• Saint Louis University: Located about 215 miles from Springfield, Saint Louis University provides a robust PA program with a commitment to serving diverse populations. Visit their PA program page for more information.

PA Employment Opportunities in Springfield

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

• CoxHealth: As one of the largest healthcare systems in the region, CoxHealth provides a wide range of services and has multiple locations throughout Springfield. Explore their career opportunities for more information.

• Mercy Hospital Springfield: Located in the southern part of the city, Mercy Hospital is a comprehensive medical center offering numerous specialties. Check out their employment page for current job openings.

Prerequisites for PA Programs

To enroll in a PA program, candidates typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• Education: A bachelor’s degree with a strong GPA, particularly in science courses.
• Healthcare Experience: Over 5,000 hours of paid, direct patient healthcare experience is often preferred.
• Standardized Testing: Submission of PA-CAT, GRE, or MCAT scores.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three professional or academic references.
• Application: Apply through the Central Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA).

PA Certification and Licensure Requirements in Missouri

In Missouri, PAs must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). Certification is required for state licensure, which is managed by the Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts.

Licensure Reciprocity

Missouri does not have specific licensure reciprocity agreements with other states. PAs moving to Missouri must meet the state’s certification and licensure requirements.

Get Started Today

Pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant in Springfield, Missouri, is a fulfilling journey that begins with the right education and training. Contact a local PA program today to take the first step toward a rewarding career in healthcare.