Program Competencies

The twelve RFUMS PA Program competencies were developed on the foundation of the PA Program's mission and values, and incorporate all aspects of the medical knowledge, interpersonal skills, clinical and technical skills, professional behaviors, and clinical reasoning and problem-solving abilities necessary for entry-level clinical practice.

Competencies of a Graduate PA

At the completion of Physician Assistant training at Rosalind Franklin University, the graduate will be able to demonstrate the following competencies for clinical practice:

1. The development of a fund of medical knowledge that includes the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and treatment of a wide variety of common illnesses, injuries, and disease states.
2. The ability to perform a thorough history and physical exam that leads to the acquisition of data to formulate accurate differential diagnoses.
3. The understanding of how to order and interpret laboratory and imaging studies that will supplement the history and physical exam and improve diagnostic accuracy.
4. The ability to effectively document and communicate medical information in oral, written and electronic formats to enhance communication between healthcare providers.
5. The clinical decision-making skills needed to thoroughly evaluate patient information and preferences, and to create and perform therapeutic interventions that meet the individual needs of patients.
6. The establishment of communication skills and the ability to form interpersonal relationships with patients and their families that are based on honesty, trust, compassion, and patient-centered care.
7. The professionalism expected of a trusted healthcare provider, and the practice of ethical and legal standards that demonstrate respect for the patient and society.
8. The knowledge and skills necessary to care for people of all age groups, cultures and genders, and socio-economic backgrounds, and those who have emergent, acute or chronic physical and mental health conditions in a variety of settings.
9. The ability to promote measures aimed at disease prevention and health promotion that will sustain the health of individuals and communities.
10. The ability to provide patient education and counseling that is compassionate and culturally sensitive, and enhances understanding and adherence to therapeutic regimens in ways that will reduce morbidity.
11. The value of ongoing learning and improvement, and the desire to continue to utilize and apply principles of evidence-based practice by appraising and assimilating scientific evidence.
12. The capability to work effectively in an interprofessional collaborative practice as a member of a healthcare team that appreciates the strengths of each contributor and uses those strengths in a synergistic way to deliver the best outcomes for the patient.