Shadowing a PA in Canada
Shadowing experiences are extremely valuable and something I wish I had taken advantage of when I was exploring different health care careers. As a shy, undergraduate student – I had the self-limiting belief that shadowing experiences were available only to those who were “well connected”, or those that had friends or family members who worked in health care fields that they could easily facilitate that connection.
Now I know much better, and find that shadowing experiences may be available to you if you take initiative and are persistent. Also – shadowing experiences are not required to get into your Canadian PA program of choice. There are many examples of successful Pre-PA applicants who did not have shadowing experiences in Canada.
I. Overview of PA Shadowing
a) What is Job Shadowing?
Shadowing a physician assistant refers to a specific type of job shadowing experience where an individual observes and learns about the role and responsibilities of a physician assistant (PA). During a PA shadowing experience, the individual, often referred to as a "shadow," accompanies a physician assistant throughout their workday or a portion of it, closely observing their interactions with patients, their clinical duties, and their collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
The purpose of shadowing a physician assistant is to gain firsthand knowledge of the PA profession, understand the scope of their practice, and witness the essential role they play in patient care. Through shadowing, individuals can observe the day-to-day responsibilities of a PA, such as conducting patient assessments, diagnosing illnesses, prescribing medications, and providing patient education.
b) Is shadowing a PA required for Canadian PA Admissions?
No it is not required to apply to PA programs in Canada. This is merely another option to research the PA profession. There are many successful PA candidates who get into Canadian PA programs without shadowing a PA.
Shadowing a PA DOES NOT count for health care experience hours for UofT’s PA Program.
Note, many American PA programs require shadowing hours to submit along with their PA Program application. Canadian PA programs do not require this.
c) Value of Job Shadowing Pre-PAs
Pre-PAs can derive numerous benefits from job shadowing a physician assistant (PA). Here are some key advantages of shadowing a PA
Insight into the PA Profession: Job shadowing allows pre-PAs to gain firsthand insights into the daily responsibilities, tasks, and challenges faced by physician assistants. They can observe the variety of patient interactions, clinical procedures, and decision-making processes that PAs engage in, providing a realistic preview of the PA profession.
Validation of Career Choice: Shadowing a PA offers pre-PAs an opportunity to validate their career choice. By observing PAs in action, witnessing the impact they have on patient care, and understanding their role within the healthcare team, pre-PAs can confirm their interest in pursuing a career as a PA.
Understanding Scope of Practice: Shadowing experiences provide clarity regarding the scope of practice for PAs. Pre-PAs can observe firsthand the specific tasks and responsibilities that PAs undertake, including patient assessments, diagnosis, treatment, and patient education.
Networking and Mentorship Opportunities: Job shadowing allows pre-PAs to establish connections with experienced PAs. These connections can serve as valuable mentors who can offer guidance, advice, and insights into the PA profession. Networking with PAs can provide future opportunities for mentorship, and recommendation letters.
Exposure to Healthcare Settings: Shadowing experiences offer pre-PAs exposure to various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, or specialized practices. By observing PAs in different environments, pre-PAs can better understand the diverse areas where PAs practice and explore which settings align with their interests and career aspirations.
Enhanced PA School Applications: Job shadowing experiences can strengthen PA school applications. Admissions committees value firsthand exposure to the PA profession and recognize the commitment and dedication required to engage in shadowing experiences. Including shadowing experiences in application, materials can demonstrate a genuine interest and understanding of the PA role.
Development of Professional Skills: Shadowing experiences foster the development of essential professional skills for pre-PAs. Through observation, pre-PAs can enhance their communication skills, professionalism, and understanding of healthcare ethics. These skills are valuable in future healthcare endeavors and can positively impact PA school interviews and interactions with patients and colleagues.
Shadowing a physician assistant can be arranged through personal connections, healthcare facilities, PA practices, or educational institutions offering shadowing programs. It is essential to approach the shadowing experience with professionalism, respect for patient privacy and confidentiality, and an understanding of the guidelines and policies set by the healthcare facility or PA practice.
II. Finding a Canadian PA to shadow
a) Identify Potential PA Shadowing Opportunities
Start by researching healthcare facilities, hospitals, clinics, and PA practices in your desired location. Look for establishments that employ physician assistants or have PA-led teams. Websites, professional directories, and local healthcare organizations can be valuable resources for finding such opportunities.
b) Contact Healthcare Facilities or PA Practices
Once you have identified potential shadowing sites, reach out to them to inquire about shadowing availability.
Craft a concise and professional email or make a phone call expressing your interest in shadowing a PA. Introduce yourself, explain your career goals, and politely request an opportunity to observe a PA in action.
Once you’ve had an email exchange with a PA, ask the PA if they’d be willing to take you on for half a day or full day of shadowing. I find that if the students take time to engage with me, prior to requesting a shadowing experiences, I may make an extra effort to try to find a time that will work (even if its many weeks/months in advance). Other times, it’s not possible.
If the PA declines after the request, be courteous and thank them for their time. At the very least you were able to speak to a PA about their experience!.
c) Prerequisites and Paperwork
Be aware that some healthcare facilities may require certain prerequisites or paperwork before allowing pre-PA students to shadow.
This might include signing confidentiality agreements, providing immunization records, or completing specific training modules. Ensure you are familiar with any such requirements and be prepared to fulfill them in a timely manner.
d) What if I can’t find a PA to shadow?
If you have looked into shadowing a PA and despite your best efforts you cannot find someone, here are a few suggestions:
Consider performing a PA informational interview instead. Like I mentioned previously, it is not a requirement to shadow a PA in Canada for admissions. Many successful PA candidates have not shadowed a PA (myself included). You can also learn about what it’s like to practice as a PA by speaking with a PA, whether over phone, skype call, or a quick coffee meetup. During these conversations you can ask about the PA’s day to day, what they enjoy, what they dislike, and more.
Volunteer in a clinic that has a PA. Whether that’s a medical clinic, physician’s office or hospital. Just by being in the vicinity you get to exposed to many health care providers and perhaps even some experience interacting with patients.
Have relatives or friends in the States? Maybe they know a PA. One of my classmates was able to shadow PA in the US (Nephrology unit) through connections.
View Canadian PA Profiles to learn more about a “day in the life of practicing PAs”, and view PA Student Profiles to see Pre-PA journeys of successful PA candidates.
III. Preparing for the PA Shadowing Experience
Before your PA shadowing experience, there are several important steps you can take to ensure you are prepared and make the most of your opportunity. Here are some things you can do before your PA shadowing experience:
Research the PA Profession: Familiarize yourself with the role and responsibilities of a physician assistant. Research the scope of practice, educational requirements, and professional organizations associated with the PA profession. This background knowledge will help you better understand the PA's role during your shadowing experience.
Familiarize Yourself with Healthcare Policies: Gain an understanding of the policies and guidelines associated with healthcare settings. This includes knowledge of patient privacy and confidentiality (such as HIPAA regulations) and professional conduct in clinical environments. Being familiar with these policies demonstrates your commitment to respecting patients' rights and maintaining ethical standards during your shadowing experience.
Prepare Questions: Create a list of questions you would like to ask the physician assistant during your shadowing experience. These questions can cover topics such as the PA's career path, their daily responsibilities, challenges they face, and their advice for aspiring PAs. Thoughtful and well-prepared questions demonstrate your genuine interest and engagement in the shadowing experience.
Dress Professionally: Dress appropriately for your shadowing experience. While specific dress codes may vary depending on the healthcare facility, it's generally best to dress in professional attire. Choose clean, modest clothing that reflects your respect for the environment and maintains a professional appearance.
IV. Attending the Shadowing Experience
a) Shadowing Etiquette and Guidelines
To make the most of this experience and ensure a respectful and enriching environment, it's important to adhere to proper shadowing etiquette and guidelines. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
Professionalism and Punctuality: Maintain a high level of professionalism throughout your shadowing experience. Dress appropriately in clean and modest attire, following any specific dress code requirements of the facility. Arrive on time for your shadowing sessions, allowing for any necessary paperwork or orientation. Punctuality shows respect for the PA's time and helps establish a positive impression
Respect Patient Privacy and Confidentiality: Respect patient privacy and confidentiality at all times. Adhere to PHIPAA regulations and any facility-specific policies regarding patient information. Avoid discussing or sharing patient details outside of the healthcare setting. Demonstrate discretion and integrity, understanding that patient confidentiality is a cornerstone of healthcare professionalism.
Active Observation and Listening: During your shadowing sessions, engage in active observation and listening. Pay attention to the PA's interactions with patients, the healthcare team, and other professionals. Observe their clinical decision-making process, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities. Take notes if permitted, but ensure that note-taking does not interfere with patient care or communication.
Asking Appropriate Questions at the Appropriate Time: Asking questions is an important part of the learning process during shadowing. However, it's crucial to ask appropriate questions that are relevant to the situation and respect the workflow. Avoid interrupting patient interactions or procedures unless encouraged by the PA. Use discretion and judgment to gauge appropriate moments to seek clarification or delve deeper into a topic.
Flexibility and Adaptability: Be adaptable and flexible during your shadowing experience. Understand that patient care and priorities may change, and the PA's schedule may be unpredictable. Embrace the opportunity to witness a variety of cases and healthcare situations. Show willingness to assist with non-clinical tasks, such as organizing materials or maintaining cleanliness, if appropriate and requested.
Express Gratitude and Follow-Up: After completing your shadowing experience, it's essential to express gratitude to the physician assistant for their time and guidance. Send a personalized thank-you note or email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity to shadow them. Acknowledge specific aspects of the experience that were particularly impactful or valuable to you. This simple gesture demonstrates your professionalism and genuine appreciation.
b) Making the Most of the PA Shadowing Experience
To make the most of your shadowing experience, it's important to be actively engaged and take intentional steps to maximize your learning.
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your time shadowing a physician assistant:
Active Observation and Note-Taking: During your shadowing sessions, be an active observer. Pay close attention to the PA's interactions with patients, their clinical reasoning process, and their collaboration with other healthcare professionals. Take detailed notes, when appropriate, to capture key learning points, medical terminology, or procedures. These observations and notes will serve as valuable references when reflecting on your experiences and preparing for future endeavors.
Observe Patient Interactions and the PA's Role: Take the opportunity to observe the PA's interactions with patients closely. Note how they establish rapport, communicate effectively, and address patients' concerns. Pay attention to the PA's ability to gather comprehensive patient histories, perform physical examinations, and explain treatment plans. Observing these interactions will provide insights into the human side of healthcare and the important role that PAs play in patient care.
Engage with the Healthcare Team: While shadowing, try to engage with the broader healthcare team beyond the physician assistant. This may include nurses, technicians, other allied healthcare professionals, and even physicians. Observe how different team members collaborate, communicate, and contribute to patient care. This exposure will help you understand the interdisciplinary nature of healthcare and the importance of effective teamwork.
Reflect and Ask Thoughtful Questions: Take time to reflect on your shadowing experiences and use that reflection to ask thoughtful questions. After each session, consider what you learned, what surprised you, and what aspects you would like to explore further. This reflection will help you formulate insightful questions to deepen your understanding and engage in meaningful discussions with the physician assistant.
Seek Feedback and Guidance: Don't hesitate to seek feedback and guidance from the physician assistant you're shadowing. Ask for their insights on the PA profession, their career journey, and their recommendations for pursuing a successful career as a PA. Their wisdom and experience can provide valuable guidance as you navigate your own path towards becoming a healthcare professional. Consider doing this towards the end of the clinic or shadowing experience.
By actively observing, engaging with the healthcare team, reflecting on your experiences, and seeking guidance, you will maximize the value of your shadowing experience. These proactive steps will help you develop a deeper understanding of the PA profession and prepare you for your own future in healthcare.
VI. Reflect on what you learned during the Shadowing Experience
Reflecting on your shadowing experience and effectively incorporating it into your PA school admissions can be a powerful way to showcase your understanding of the PA profession and your commitment to pursuing a career as a physician assistant.
Journaling: Take time to reflect on your shadowing experience by journaling your thoughts and observations. Write about the specific patient encounters, procedures, and interactions you witnessed. Reflect on the impact of these experiences on your understanding of the PA profession, patient care, and healthcare as a whole. Note any challenges, surprises, or personal growth you experienced during the shadowing experience.
Identify Key Learning Points: Identify the key learning points from your shadowing experience. What did you learn about the responsibilities, skills, and qualities of a physician assistant? How did the experience solidify your interest in becoming a PA? Identify specific instances or encounters that left a lasting impression on you and helped shape your understanding of the PA role.
Connect with Your Personal Journey: Reflect on how your shadowing experience aligns with your personal journey and career aspirations. Connect the skills and qualities you observed in the physician assistant to your own strengths and goals. Consider how the experience influenced your decision to pursue a career as a PA and the impact you envision having on patients and the healthcare system.
Relate to PA Program Attributes: Research the PA programs you are interested in applying to and identify their specific attributes, values, and missions. Evaluate how your shadowing experience aligns with these attributes. Did you witness aspects of patient-centered care, interdisciplinary collaboration, or community engagement that resonate with the program's values? Connect your reflections to the program's goals and emphasize how your shadowing experience supports your fit with their program.
Integrate Reflection into Personal Statement (when appropriate): Incorporate your reflections from the shadowing experience into your personal statement. Use vivid and specific examples to describe your observations, insights, and growth during the shadowing experience. Explain how these experiences have solidified your commitment to becoming a physician assistant and demonstrate your understanding of the profession's values, responsibilities, and impact on patient care.
Share in Interviews (when relevant and appropriate): When you are invited for PA school interviews, use your reflections to articulate your passion for the PA profession. Share specific stories and experiences from your shadowing that highlight your understanding of the profession, your motivation to contribute to patient care, and your commitment to the PA role. Emphasize the lessons you learned, the relationships you built, and how these experiences have shaped your goals as a future PA.
Final notes
Shadowing a physician assistant in Canada offers you, as a prospective PA student, a unique opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge and insights into the PA profession.
Through observation and engagement, shadowing experiences provide you with a realistic preview of the responsibilities, challenges, and rewards associated with being a physician assistant. These experiences not only validate your career choice but also provide invaluable networking opportunities, exposure to healthcare settings, and the chance to develop essential professional skills.
By reflecting on and effectively incorporating your shadowing experiences into your PA school admissions, you can showcase your understanding of the profession, your personal growth, and your commitment to making a meaningful impact in patient care.
