Job opportunities for physician assistants are very favorable. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment of physician assistants will grow by 39 percent during the decade ending 2018. The road to becoming a PA can be long, but if you're about to interview for a position, you've almost made it. Academically, you are well prepared to enter this field. You have completed an accredited education program and passed the national exam. You may also have some health-related work experience. You impressed the human resources department with your resume and, as a result, you have been short-listed for a position in the hospital, medical center or public clinic. You must now prepare for an effective interview.
Do Your Homework
Research the health care center thoroughly. Find out all you can about the supervising physician and the organizational structure of the clinic or hospital. Your duties will vary according to location. In a rural or inner-city clinic, you could be the principal care provider and the physician may be present for one or two days a week. In a larger urban center, you will be part of a health care team and assist with the diagnostic, therapeutic and preventative services delegated by physicians and surgeons. Your duties will also be determined by state laws. If you are applying out-of-state, investigate the laws and regulations of that particular state.
Highlight Your Work Experience
Reread the work experience section of your resume and create accomplishment stories that demonstrate your medical knowledge and experience. As you analyze each of your previous employers, answer the following questions using keywords from the job advertisement. How did you deal with a difficult patient, doctor or colleague who did not respect your position? What steps have you taken to overcome a personal weakness? How did your duties differ from those of the head nurse? Be professional and concise. Describe the original situation, your subsequent actions and the final results. Write out all these stories and practice delivering them in a mock interview with a friend or relative.
Highlight Your People Skills
You may or may not have extensive experience in the health care field. Hiring officers are often more concerned with your ability to adapt to a particular work environment. They are looking for applicants who have a good bedside manner and excellent decision-making skills, especially in crisis situations. Do you have the emotional stability and stamina for long hours and stressful situations? Do you have a genuine interest in the welfare of your patients? Can you handle working without direct supervision? Take a stand when faced with more difficult questions. For example, What would you do if the supervising physician has a few extra drinks at lunch and continues to treat patients? Practice delivering seamless answers to these questions.
Interest in Lifelong Learning
As a physician assistant, you will be required to complete 100 hours of continuing medical eduction every two years. Every six years, you must pass a re-certification examination or complete an alternative program. Show your enthusiasm for lifelong learning and dedication to your chosen profession. If you are a recent student, sit down and write your future goals. Be prepared to answer the question: Why not an MD?
