Physician Assistant Programs in Knoxville, Tennessee

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Becoming a Physician Assistant in Knoxville, Tennessee

Embarking on a career as a Physician Assistant (PA) in Knoxville, Tennessee, 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 educational paths, local PA programs, employment opportunities, and certification requirements for aspiring PAs in Knoxville.

About Knoxville

Knoxville, a vibrant city in eastern Tennessee, is known for its rich history and scenic beauty. As the home of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville offers a dynamic blend of culture, education, and outdoor activities. The city is nestled near the Great Smoky Mountains, providing numerous recreational opportunities. For more information about Knoxville, visit the official city website.

PA Programs in Knoxville, Tennessee

Knoxville offers several educational opportunities for aspiring PAs:

1. South College – Master of Health Science Physician Assistant Program
   Located in the heart of Knoxville, South College offers an ARC-PA accredited Master of Health Science Physician Assistant Program. This program prepares students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the PA profession. For more details, visit the South College PA program page.

2. Lincoln Memorial University – DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
   Situated approximately 55 miles from Knoxville in Harrogate, Tennessee, Lincoln Memorial University offers a comprehensive PA program focused on rural and underserved communities. Learn more about their program here.

3. Bethel University – Physician Assistant Program
   Located about 150 miles from Knoxville in McKenzie, Tennessee, Bethel University provides a robust PA program emphasizing primary care. More information can be found on their program page.

PA Employment Opportunities in Knoxville

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

• University of Tennessee Medical Center
  Located in the Fort Sanders neighborhood, this leading medical center provides a wide range of healthcare services and is a significant employer for healthcare professionals. Explore their career opportunities.

• East Tennessee Children’s Hospital
  Situated in downtown Knoxville, this hospital specializes in pediatric care and offers various positions for PAs. Visit their employment page for more information.

• Covenant Health
  As a comprehensive health system, Covenant Health operates multiple facilities in the Knoxville area, providing diverse career paths for PAs. Check out their careers page.

Prerequisites for PA Programs

To enroll in a PA program, candidates typically need:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• A minimum GPA, often around 3.0
• Completion of prerequisite coursework in subjects like biology, chemistry, and anatomy
• Healthcare experience, which can vary by program
• Successful completion of entrance exams such as the GRE

PA Certification and Licensure Requirements in Tennessee

To practice as a PA in Tennessee, candidates must:

• Graduate from an ARC-PA accredited program, such as the one offered by South College in Knoxville
• Pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE)
• Apply for licensure with the Tennessee Committee on Physicians Assistants, including submitting an application packet and undergoing a criminal background check

For detailed information on licensure, visit the Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners.

Licensure Reciprocity

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

Get Started Today

Pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant in Knoxville, Tennessee, is a fulfilling path that offers numerous opportunities to contribute to the healthcare field. By meeting the educational, certification, and licensure requirements, you can embark on this rewarding journey. Contact a local PA program today to begin your path toward becoming a licensed PA.

For more information on the job outlook for Physician Assistants, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.