Physician Assistant Programs in Durham, North Carolina

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Becoming a Physician Assistant in Durham, North Carolina

Embarking on a career as a Physician Assistant (PA) in Durham, North Carolina, offers a rewarding path in the healthcare field. PAs are vital members of medical teams, providing diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services. This guide explores the steps to becoming a PA in Durham, including education paths, certification, and employment opportunities.

About Durham

Durham, North Carolina, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and thriving healthcare industry. As part of the Research Triangle, Durham is home to numerous medical facilities and educational institutions. For more information about the city, visit the official Durham website.

PA Programs in Durham, North Carolina

Durham offers several options for aspiring PAs to pursue their education:

1. Duke University School of Medicine
   • Located in the heart of Durham, Duke University offers a highly regarded PA program accredited by the ARC-PA. The program emphasizes clinical practice and research, preparing students for diverse healthcare settings. Visit Duke’s PA program page.
2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
   • Just a short drive from Durham, UNC Chapel Hill offers a comprehensive PA program focusing on primary care and preventive medicine. The program is known for its commitment to serving underserved populations. Visit UNC’s PA program page.
3. Campbell University
   • Located approximately 40 miles from Durham, Campbell University provides a PA program that integrates clinical skills with compassionate care. The program is designed to prepare students for various medical environments. Visit Campbell’s PA program page.

PA Employment Opportunities in Durham

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

1. Duke University Health System
   • A leading healthcare provider, Duke University Health System offers numerous career opportunities for PAs across its hospitals and clinics. Explore Duke’s employment opportunities.
2. Durham VA Health Care System
   • Serving veterans in the region, the Durham VA Health Care System provides comprehensive healthcare services and employs PAs in various specialties. Visit the VA’s employment page.
3. UNC Health
   • With facilities throughout the Triangle area, UNC Health offers diverse roles for PAs in specialties ranging from family medicine to surgery. Explore UNC Health’s career page.

Prerequisites for PA Programs

To enroll in a PA program, candidates typically need:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, biology, and chemistry.
• Clinical experience in a healthcare setting.
• GRE scores, depending on the program’s requirements.

PA Certification and Licensure Requirements in North Carolina

To practice as a PA in North Carolina, candidates must:

• Graduate from an ARC-PA accredited program.
• Pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) administered by the NCCPA.
• Apply for licensure through the North Carolina Medical Board.
• Maintain certification through continuing medical education (CME) and periodic recertification exams.

Licensure Reciprocity

North Carolina does not have specific licensure reciprocity agreements with other states, but PAs moving to North Carolina can apply for licensure through the standard application process.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Physician Assistant in Durham, North Carolina, is a fulfilling career choice with numerous opportunities for growth and development. Begin your journey by exploring local PA programs and reaching out to schools for more information. Take the first step towards a rewarding career in healthcare today.