Graduate Physician Assistant Courses

PAHS 5008. Interprofessional Seminar I: Roles and Responsibilities. 0 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

Physician Assistants must successfully function in a health care environment that effectively utilizes the resources and knowledge offered by each member of the healthcare team in the delivery of patient centered care. Successful inter-professional practice results in improvement in quality, reduction in cost, optimization of efficiency; ultimately achieving the best possible patient outcomes. These seminars will provide the Physician Assistant learner opportunities to apply the principles of inter-professional practice to clinical scenarios while interacting with learners from other healthcare disciplines. The seminars will be conducted over two days and will focus on the four inter-professional collaborative practice competency domains: Roles and Responsibilities, Interprofessional Communication, Teams and Teamwork, and Ethics and Values. Prerequisite: Successful admission to the Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Medicine program.

PAHS 5009. Interprofessional Seminar II: Interprofessional Communication. 0 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

Physician Assistants must successfully function in a health care environment that effectively utilizes the resources and knowledge offered by each member of the healthcare team in the delivery of patient centered care. Successful inter-professional practice results in improvement in quality, reduction in cost, optimization of efficiency; ultimately achieving the best possible patient outcomes. This seminar series will provide the Physician Assistant learner opportunities to apply the principles of inter-professional practice to clinical scenarios while interacting with learners from other healthcare disciplines. The seminars will be conducted over two days and will focus on the four inter-professional collaborative practice competency domains: Roles and Responsibilities, Interprofessional Communication, Teams and Teamwork, and Ethics and Values. Prerequisite: PAHS 6500, PAHS 5201, PAHS 5202, PAHS 5105, PAHS 5406, PAHS 5107, PAHS 5008.

PAHS 5010. Interprofessional Seminar III: Ethics and Values. 0 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

Physician Assistants must successfully function in a health care environment that effectively utilizes the resources and knowledge offered by each member of the healthcare team in the delivery of patient centered care. Successful inter-professional collaborative practice results in improvement in quality, reduction in cost, optimization of efficiency; ultimately achieving the best possible patient outcomes. These seminars will provide the Physician Assistant learner opportunities to apply the principles of inter-professional collaborative practice to clinical scenarios while interacting with learners from other healthcare disciplines. Prerequisite: PAHS 5612, PAHS 5215, PAHS 5203, PAHS 5217, PAHS 5419, PAHS 5221, PAHS 5124, PAHS 5009.

PAHS 5011. Interprofessional Seminar IV: Teams and Teamwork. 0 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

Physician Assistants must successfully function in a health care environment that effectively utilizes the resources and knowledge offered by each member of the healthcare team in the delivery of patient centered care. Successful inter-professional practice results in improvement in quality, reduction in cost, optimization of efficiency; ultimately achieving the best possible patient outcomes. This seminar series will provide the Physician Assistant learner opportunities to apply the principles of inter-professional practice to clinical scenarios while interacting with learners from other healthcare disciplines. The seminars will be conducted over two days and will focus on the four inter-professional collaborative practice competency domains: Roles and Responsibilities, Interprofessional Communication, Teams and Teamwork, and Ethics and Values. Prerequisite: PAHS 5613, PAHS 5216, PAHS 5204, PAHS 5218, PAHS 5420, PAHS 5222, PAHS 5125, PAHS 5010.

PAHS 5105. Epidemiology and Biostatistics: An Introduction to Clinical Research. 1 Credit Hour (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course will explore fundamental concepts of biostatistics and epidemiology necessary to interpret clinical research articles and design clinical studies most encountered in health research. Prerequisite: Successful admission to the Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Medicine program.

PAHS 5107. The Physician Assistant: Delivering Healthcare in Rural America and Beyond. 1 Credit Hour (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course offers learners a comprehensive overview of the fundamental structure and operations of the of U.S. health care system. The course presents the complex nature in the organization, financing, and delivery of health care services in the US in a systematic fashion. Healthcare systems of other countries and global health challenges and reform are also explored. Also, the course explores the factors affecting the development of the profession and the role of the physician assistant in today’s healthcare delivery system. Will provide a historical perspective of the PA profession as well as current trends and issues affecting PA practice within the state and on a national level. This course will discuss credentialing, policies, regulations governing the scope of practice, and professional organizations. The physician-PA team relationship, Inter-professional practice and the role of inter-disciplinary teams will also be discussed. Prerequisite: Successful admission to the Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Medicine program.

PAHS 5124. Public Health: Principles, Policy, and Rural Health Advocacy. 1 Credit Hour (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course offers the learner a population perspective on the determinants of health and disease. It will also explore best practices and the tools available to promote health and prevent disease. The learner will examine public healthcare systems as well as society-wide systems (e.g., laws and taxation) and their role on health inequities in rural United States and abroad. Additionally, the learner will be introduced to public health policy: its purpose, how it is originated, and how it is implemented. Underlying theories and frameworks as well as practical analytical tools needed for effective advocacy and communication will be discussed. The course will also demonstrate how policymaking is a complex, multidisciplinary, and integrated top-down and bottoms-up process that embraces a myriad of public and private stakeholders. Prerequisite: PAHS 5500, PAHS 5201, PAHS 5202, PAHS 5105, PAHS 5406, PAHS 5107, PAHS 5008.

PAHS 5125. Cultural Issues in Healthcare. 1 Credit Hour (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course enhances the understanding of culture and its relationship to health, health disparities, disease incidence and prevalence for specific communities and/or ethnic groups. It will also explore historical factors that might shape the health behaviors, beliefs, folk practices, ethnopharmacology, and communication practices of specific communities. Learners will be challenged to discover the effect of bias and stereotyping on the delivery of healthcare. Upon completion of this course the learner will develop an understanding and value the importance of providing culturally competent healthcare. Prerequisite: PAHS 5612, PAHS 5215, PAHS 5203, PAHS 5217, PAHS 5419, PAHS 5221, PAHS 5124, PAHS 5009.

PAHS 5129. Applied Medical Genetics. 1 Credit Hour (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course is an introduction to medical genetics where learners will review chromosomes, DNA, RNA, protein synthesis, and inheritance patterns and continues with a clinical focus based on understanding different disease processes. Diagnostic techniques and an overview of embryonic development and teratogens will also be discussed. A variety of genetic diseases are explored, including what is known about the genetics involved, the signs and symptoms of the disease, prevention and treatment options. Concepts and application of pharmacogenomics are discussed. The roles of genetic counseling and screening, as well as the ethical and legal issues related to genetic screening and genetic testing are also discussed. Prerequisite: PAHS 5613, PAHS 5216, PAHS 5204, PAHS 5218, PAHS 5420, PAHS 5222, PAHS 5125, PAHS 5010.

PAHS 5130. Ethics, Law, and Social Justice in Medicine. 1 Credit Hour (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This is a highly interactive course where principles of ethics and the law are discussed followed by case simulations that illustrate where social determinants of health (e.g., access to justice), ethics and the law intersect. Learners will explore their roles and responsibilities as healthcare providers and discover how interdisciplinary collaboration is key for effective advocacy and changes in health policy that address health disparities and social injustice. Prerequisite: PAHS 5613, PAHS 5216, PAHS 5204, PAHS 5218, PAHS 5420, PAHS 5222, PAHS 5125, PAHS 5010.

PAHS 5149. Summative Seminar. 1 Credit Hour (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This seminar is delivered at the end of the clinical phase of the program. It is designed to allow learners to finalize, prepare and present their graduate research project to faculty, clinical preceptors, learners, and staff. It will also include an intensive board review in preparation for the PANCE, CV preparation, job interviewing skills, and contract negotiation sessions. Prerequisite: Successful completion of the Clinical Phase of the program.

PAHS 5201. Medical Physiology. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 4 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This is an integrated primary core course, foundational to principles of pathophysiology. It involves an intensive study of the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, and recognition of various diseases and anomalies in the population. The contextual approach to these disciplines will include the interrelationship of prior and current learning incorporating the basic sciences, anatomy and physiology, ancillary diagnostics, and medical terminology. Prerequisite: Successful admission to the Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Medicine.

PAHS 5202. Pharmacology I. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 4 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course is designed to prepare the learner for the clinical study of therapeutics by providing knowledge of the way drugs modify biological function. Instruction on basic principles of pharmacology, including pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, receptors, dose-response, drug interactions, indications, and contraindications will be provided. It includes a systematic study of the effects of drugs (antimicrobials) on different organ systems and disease processes, the mechanisms by which drugs produce their therapeutic and toxic effects, and the factors influencing their absorption, distribution, and biological actions. Prerequisite: Successful admission to the Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Medicine program.

PAHS 5203. Pharmacology II. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 4 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course is designed to prepare the student for the clinical study of therapeutics by providing knowledge of the manner in which drugs modify biological function. It includes a systematic study of the effects of drugs on different organ systems and disease processes, the mechanisms by which drugs produce their therapeutic and toxic effects, and the factors influencing their absorption, distribution, and biological actions. The course consists of a combination of lectures and team-based learning (TBL) sessions. The topics are synchronized with and correlative to topics in Clinical Medicine I, Pathophysiology of Disease I, Physical Diagnosis I and Clinical Laboratory Medicine I. Prerequisite: PAHS 5500, PAHS 5201, PAHS 5202,, PAHS 5105, PAHS 5206, PAHS 5107, PAHS 5008.

PAHS 5204. Pharmacology III. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 4 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course is designed to prepare the learner for the clinical study of therapeutics by providing knowledge of the way drugs modify biological function. It includes a systematic study of the effects of drugs on different organ systems and disease processes, the mechanisms by which drugs produce their therapeutic and toxic effects, and the factors influencing their absorption, distribution, and biological actions. The course consists of a combination of lectures and problem-based learning (PBL) sessions. The topics are synchronized with and correlative to topics in Clinical Medicine II, Pathophysiology of Disease II, and Clinical Laboratory and Diagnostics II. Prerequisite: PAHS 5612, PAHS 5215, PAHS 5203, PAHS 5217, PAHS 5419, PAHS 5221, PAHS 5124, PAHS 5009.

PAHS 5215. Pathophysiology of Disease I. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 4 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

Pathophysiology of Disease I is the first of a two-semester overview of medical physiology as well as an introduction to the underlying pathological basis for specific disease processes common to primary care. The clinical pathophysiology portion of the course serves as a transition from the basic medical sciences to clinical medicine. The learner will be exposed to the study of disease, both congenital and acquired with an emphasis on providing understanding pathologic physiology in conjunction with information regarding medical history and laboratory data to solve case based clinical problems during small group discussions. Learners are taught how pathophysiology translates into patient signs, symptoms, and laboratory test results. Learners are also encouraged to begin the thought processes leading to development of differential diagnoses. The course content is presented synchronized with appropriate, correlative lectures in Physical Assessment and Diagnosis I, Clinical Medicine I, Clinical Laboratory Medicine I and Pharmacology II. Prerequisite: PAHS 5500, PAHS 5201, PAHS 5202, PAHS 5105, PAHS 5406, PAHS 5107, PAHS 5008.

PAHS 5216. Pathophysiology of Disease II. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 4 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

Pathophysiology of Disease II is an introduction to the underlying pathological basis for specific disease processes common to primary care. The clinical pathophysiology portion of the course serves as a transition from the basic medical sciences to clinical medicine. The learner will be exposed to the study of disease, both congenital and acquired with an emphasis on providing understanding pathologic physiology in conjunction with information regarding medical history and laboratory data to solve case based clinical problems during small group discussions. Learners are taught how pathophysiology translates into patient signs, symptoms, and laboratory test results. Learners are also encouraged to begin the thought processes leading to development of differential diagnoses. The course content is presented synchronized with appropriate, correlative topics in Physical Assessment and Diagnosis II, Clinical Medicine II, and Pharmacology III. Prerequisite: PAHS 5612, PAHS 5215, PAHS 5203, PAHS 5217, PAHS 5419, PAHS 5221, PAHS 5124, PAHS 5009.

PAHS 5217. Clinical Laboratory and Diagnostics I. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 4 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course is the first of a two-part series where the learner receives instruction in medical laboratory, electrocardiography, and radiographic studies used in the diagnosis and management of common disorders of the major body systems. It also provides the rationale for the selection, utilization and interpretation of clinical laboratory, imaging and other diagnostic tests used to evaluate each system's principal functions. The topics are synchronized with and correlative to topics in Clinical Medicine I, Pathophysiology of Disease I and Pharmacology II. Prerequisite: PAHS 5500, PAHS 5201, PAHS 5202, PAHS 5105, PAHS 5406, PAHS 5107, PAHS 5008.

PAHS 5218. Clinical Laboratory and Diagnostics II. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 4 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course is the second of a two-part series where the learner receives instruction in medical laboratory and radiographic studies used in the diagnosis and management of common disorders of the major body systems. It also provides the rationale for the selection, utilization and interpretation of clinical laboratory, imaging and other diagnostic tests used to evaluate each system's principal functions. The topics are synchronized with and correlative to topics in Clinical Medicine II, Pathophysiology of Disease II and Pharmacology III. Prerequisite: PAHS 5612, PAHS 5215, PAHS 5203, PAHS 5217, PAHS 5419, PAHS 5221, PAHS 5124, PAHS 5009.

PAHS 5221. Evidence Based Medicine I. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 4 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This is the first course of a three-part series where the basic principles of utilizing research evidence in clinical practice are expounded on. Course I will focus on developing efficient strategies for searching and using available databases to access evidence-based journals and medical literature. Learners will also acquire the skill of formulating an answerable research question. Course II will provide learners with the requisite knowledge and skill to appropriately interpret and critically appraise research studies of intervention, harm, diagnosis, and prognosis in an efficient manner. After appraising the study learners will be able to determine if the information is valid and how it will affect the care of the patient. Course III will offer instruction on medical writing as learners start to develop the foundation of their graduate research project. Prerequisite: PAHS 5500, PAHS 5201, PAHS 5202, PAHS 5105, PAHS 5406, PAHS 5107, PAHS 5008.

PAHS 5222. Evidence Based Medicine II. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 4 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This is the second course of a three-part series where the basic principles of utilizing research evidence in clinical practice are expounded on. Course I will focus on developing efficient strategies for searching and using available databases to access evidence-based journals and medical literature. Learners will also acquire the skill of formulating an answerable research question. Course II will provide learners with the requisite knowledge and skill to appropriately interpret and critically appraise research studies of intervention, harm, diagnosis, and prognosis in an efficient manner. After appraising the study learners will be able to determine if the information is valid and how it will affect the care of the patient. Course III will offer instruction on medical writing as learners start to develop the foundation of their graduate research project. Prerequisite: PAHS 5612, PAHS 5215, PAHS 5203, PAHS 5217, PAHS 5419, PAHS 5221, PAHS 5124, PAHS 5009.

PAHS 5223. Evidence Based Medicine III. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 4 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This is the third course of a three-part series where the basic principles of utilizing research evidence in clinical practice are expounded on. Course I will focus on developing efficient strategies for searching and using available databases to access evidence-based journals and medical literature. Learners will also acquire the skill of formulating an answerable research question. Course II will provide learners with the requisite knowledge and skill to appropriately interpret and critically appraise research studies of intervention, harm, diagnosis, and prognosis in an efficient manner. After appraising the study learners will be able to determine if the information is valid and how it will affect the care of the patient. Course III will offer instruction on medical writing as learners start to develop the foundation of their graduate research project. Prerequisite: PAHS 5613, PAHS 5216, PAHS 5204, PAHS 5218, PAHS 5420, PAHS 5222, PAHS 5125, PAHS 5010.

PAHS 5226. Advanced Clinical Pharmacotherapeutics. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 4 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course provides the opportunity to acquire advanced knowledge and skills in the therapeutic use of pharmacologic agents. The pharmacologic treatment of complex health problems will be explored. It is designed to facilitate the process of teambuilding by making basic knowledge in pharmacology “come alive” in structured case studies. Thus, the didactic lecture material taught in Pharmacology I and Pharmacology II will be expanded, reinforced, and made practical through the team based/problem-based learning method. Additionally, learners will administer medications using patient simulators and will observe the clinical response. Prerequisite: PAHS 5613, PAHS 5216, PAHS 5204, PAHS 5218, PAHS 5420, PAHS 5222, PAHS 5125, PAHS 5010.

PAHS 5228. Behavioral Medicine. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 4 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

Behavioral Medicine is a course that aims to develop and integrate behavioral, psychosocial, and biomedical science knowledge and techniques relevant to the understanding of health and illness, and the application of this knowledge and these techniques to prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation across the lifespan. It includes the following topics as they pertain to human behavior: children and adolescent health, aging, chronic pain, death, dying and loss, domestic violence, eating disorders, environmental health, human sexuality, HIV/AIDS, obesity, public health, quality of life, rehabilitation, sexually transmitted diseases, stress, substance abuse (alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs) and women's health. Prerequisite: PAHS 5613, PAHS 5216, PAHS 5204, PAHS 5218, PAHS 5420, PAHS 5222, PAHS 5125, PAHS 5010.

PAHS 5241. Integration of Clinical Concepts in Rural Health Practice. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course focuses on the application and integration of clinical concepts in complex clinical cases from a rural health standpoint. It will build on the knowledge acquired during the didactic phase of the program, providing in-depth content about the epidemiology, evaluation and diagnosis, genetics, pharmacology, age issues, gender issues, culture issues (e.g., religion and spirituality), comorbidity, risk issues—medical/legal risk management of complex, chronic and acute clinical disorders across the lifespan. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5242. Advanced Clinical Skills in Rural Health Practice. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 2 Hours).

In rural communities, family medicine clinicians are the primary source of care and access to specialists is limited. Patients in these areas may have difficulty obtaining much needed services. This course will provide additional hands-on training of advanced clinical skills needed to provide such services. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5243. Rural Health Policy and Advocacy. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course will explore health policies that have a direct impact on the delivery of health care in rural communities. The students will learn how to be successful rural health care advocates. Additionally, students will receive invaluable tips for communicating with elected representatives and become skilled in how to advance legislative goals in Congress. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5244. Leadership in Health Administration. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course focuses on the practical knowledge and skills that physician assistants need to be effective health care leaders in a multidisciplinary environment. The course will focus on providing the learner with an understanding of how perceptions and thinking influence behavior in the workplace, and the skills necessary to manage conflict and lead change in teams, organizations, community partnerships, and health initiatives in their role as a physician assistant. Strategies for creative problem-solving communication and improved management practices will be explored. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5245. Integration of Behavioral and Mental Health Services in Rural Primary Care Practice. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course will provide the learners practical resources and recommendations for success and traps to avoid when providing mental health services in a primary care environment. The students will be given an array of reproducible assessment questions, patient handouts, and sample scripts: all which are aimed to improve the assessment and intervention skills in a focused manner that work well within the fast pace of primary care. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5246. Integration of Clinical Concepts in Adult Behavioral and Mental Health. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course will equip the student with the requisite in-depth knowledge regarding the epidemiology, evaluation and diagnosis, clinical neuroscience including psychiatric genetics, psychopharmacology, psychotherapies, age issues, gender issues, culture issues (e.g., religion and spirituality), comorbidity, risk issues—medical/legal risk management of chronic and acute mental health disorders in the adult and the elderly. Focus is on the application and integration of clinical concepts in Behavioral and Mental health cases; building on the knowledge acquired during the didactic phase of the program. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5247. Integration of Clinical Concepts in Child and Adolescent Behavioral and Mental Health. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course will equip the student with the requisite in-depth knowledge regarding the epidemiology, evaluation and diagnosis, clinical neuroscience including psychiatric genetics, psychopharmacology, psychotherapies, age issues, gender issues, culture issues (e.g., religion and spirituality), comorbidity, risk issues—medical/legal risk management of chronic and acute mental health disorders in children and adolescents. Focus is on the application and integration of clinical concepts in Behavioral and Mental health cases; building on the knowledge acquired during the didactic phase of the program. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5248. Rural Mental Health Policy and Advocacy. 2 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course will address the needs of America's most underserved areas for mental health services. It will offer the most up-to-date, research-based information on policies and practice in rural and frontier populations. Learners will examine the complexities of improving mental health in rural practice and offer clear recommendations which can be adapted into current practice and training programs. The course brings an incisive lens to factors that contribute to mental illness and prevent access to treatment areas. These include limited resources, reliance on urban models and assumptions, and pervasive misunderstanding of rural realities by policy makers. The course also addresses diversity issues in regard to rural mental health services. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5331. Graduate Research Project. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

The graduate research project is a requirement for graduation. Learners may choose one of two options for the graduate research project. The first option is a three-part individual graduate research project which entails: a written case report, a literature review related to the case report, and an oral presentation of the case and key findings of the literature review. The second option is a collaborative graduate research project where a small group of learners (three learners maximum) identify a health disparity in a specific community; conduct a literature review on the subject matter, design, and implement a community health initiative. The report (written and oral presentation) includes a literature review, a description of the project and its outcomes. Prerequisite: PAHS 5614, PAHS 5226, PAHS 5427, PAHS 5228, PAHS 5129, PAHS 5223, PAHS 5130, PAHS 5011.

PAHS 5406. Medical Interviewing, Counseling and Documentation. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This course will equip the learner with the fundamentals of patient-centered communication skills, patient education and basic counseling techniques as well as the components of the medical interview. The learner will develop competency in behavioral change counseling strategies such as motivational interviewing. These concepts will be reinforced through the introduction to medical documentation. Prerequisite: Successful admission to the Master of Medical Science Physician Assistant Medicine program.

PAHS 5419. Physical Assessment and Diagnosis I. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 8 Hours).

This is a course where the learner develops a systems-based approach to performing a full physical examination and critical thinking skills enabling them to formulate differential diagnoses and treatment plans. The course content is synchronized and integrated with correlative content in Pathophysiology of Disease I, Pharmacology II, Clinical Laboratory and Diagnostics I and Clinical Medicine I to maximize learner learning. Learners will receive instruction through lectures and actively participate in labs where they interact with, interview, and examine standardized patients. Learners are primarily assessed by Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCE); where they will interview and examine a standardized patient then document and present their findings to course instructors. Prerequisite: PAHS 5500, PAHS 5201, PAHS 5202, PAHS 5105, PAHS 5406, PAHS 5107, PAHS 5008.

PAHS 5420. Physical Assessment and Diagnosis II. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 8 Hours).

This is a course where the learner develops a systems-based approach to performing a full physical examination and critical thinking skills enabling them to formulate differential diagnoses and treatment plans. The course content is synchronized and integrated with correlative content in Pathophysiology of Disease II, Pharmacology III, Clinical Laboratory and Diagnostics II and Clinical Medicine II to maximize learner learning. Learners will receive instruction through lectures and actively participate in labs where they interact with, interview, and examine standardized patients. Learners are primarily assessed by Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCE); where they will interview and examine a standardized patient then document and present their findings to course instructors. Prerequisite: PAHS 5612, PAHS 5215, PAHS 5203, PAHS 5217, PAHS 5419, PAHS 5221, PAHS 5124, PAHS 5009.

PAHS 5427. Clinical Skill and Procedures. 4 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 8 Hours).

This course is designed to introduce learners to essential procedures and skills necessary for primary care practice such as phlebotomy; injection techniques; splinting; suturing and more. Learners will participate in Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support Certification training during this course. Learners will demonstrate competence through written and practical evaluations. Prerequisite: PAHS 5613, PAHS 5216, PAHS 5204, PAHS 5218, PAHS 5420, PAHS 5222, PAHS 5125, PAHS 5010.

PAHS 5500. Clinical Anatomy and Radiology with Lab. 5 Credit Hours (Lecture: 4 Hours, Lab: 8 Hours).

This is a clinically oriented course developed to integrate knowledge and understanding gained at the anatomical and functional level that is essential in developing a useful perspective on human function in health and disease. Laboratory sessions will reinforce the learner’s knowledge of anatomy and provide the learner with the opportunity to visualize the texture, color, location, course, and three-dimensional relationships of anatomical structures. Embryology and developmental biology will be incorporated into course. This course will also introduce learners to the fundamentals of anatomical structure as it correlates to radiologic imaging. Learners will learn how to identify and locate key organs through a series of radiographic images. Integration of clinical concepts activities at the end of each body system re-enforces application of anatomical concepts to clinical practice. Prerequisite: Successful admission to the Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Medicine program.

PAHS 5532. Behavioral and Mental Health Clerkship. 5 Credit Hours (Lecture: 37.5 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This 5 week clinical course introduces the student to the Behavioral and Mental Health outpatient and inpatient settings where the learner is exposed to common psychiatric/behavioral conditions treated by BMH practitioners (Physicians, board-certified and licensed, Physician Assistants (PA), and/or other health care providers)in conjunction with other members of the health care team. Emphasis is placed on further developing and refining the learner's skills in taking a medical history, performing a physical exam, ordering and interpreting laboratory/diagnostic tests, synthesizing information in establishing a diagnosis, formulating and implementing a cost-effective treatment plan, and promoting patient education. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5533. Emergency Medicine Clerkship. 5 Credit Hours (Lecture: 37.5 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This 5-week clinical course introduces the learner to the Emergency Medicine setting where the learner, with supervision, receives experience in triage, stabilization, in-depth exposure to traumatic illnesses, injuries and surgical issues that necessitate emergent care for patients across the life span. Emphasis is placed on the proper evaluation and management of life-threatening illness and injury by refining the learner's skills in taking a medical history and performing a physical exam, ordering and interpreting laboratory/diagnostic tests, synthesizing information in establishing a diagnosis, learning proper disposition of patients and performing lifesaving techniques. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5534. Family Medicine Clerkship. 5 Credit Hours (Lecture: 37.5 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This 5-week clinical course introduces the student to the FM setting where the student is exposed to common diseases and disorders treated by FM practitioners (Physicians, board-certified and licensed, Physician Assistants (PA), and/or other health care providers) in conjunction with other members of the health care team. Emphasis is placed on further developing and refining the students’ skills in taking a medical history and performing a physical exam, ordering and interpreting laboratory/diagnostic tests, synthesizing information in establishing a diagnosis, formulating and implementing a cost-effective treatment plan and promoting patient education. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5535. Internal Medicine Clerkship. 5 Credit Hours (Lecture: 37.5 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This is a five week clinical course where learners will be assigned to the inpatient medical/hospitalist service. The purpose of the Internal Medicine Clerkship is to provide the learner with practical clinical experience in working with the hospitalized patients with acute or chronic diseases that are routinely seen by internists. Under the supervision of a licensed provider, students will participate in a wide variety of inpatient care activities. Medical history review, physical examination, diagnostic testing, and management are emphasized, as is the importance of functioning on a multidisciplinary team. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5536. Pediatrics Clerkship. 5 Credit Hours (Lecture: 37.5 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This 5-week clinical course introduces the learner to the Pediatric setting in private practice offices or community health centers participating in the care of the pediatric patient from birth through adolescence. Through supervised exposure, learners are given the opportunity to further develop skills in taking medical histories, performing pediatric physical examinations and newborn assessments; assessing the parameters and variations of normal growth and development; evaluating, diagnosing and managing common acute/chronic childhood illnesses. Additionally, the students will advocate parental counseling regarding immunizations, preventive health care visits, growth and development, nutrition, and common psychosocial problems. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5537. Surgery Clerkship. 5 Credit Hours (Lecture: 37.5 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This is a five week clinical course where students are introduced to the Surgery discipline. With supervision, the learner is provided with practical experience in the evaluation and management of major and minor surgical problems. Emphasis is given on the longitudinal management and care of the surgical patient. Learners will have the opportunity to follow patients in the preoperative confirmation of clinical impressions through history taking, appropriate physical examination, ordering and interpreting laboratory/diagnostic tests. Subsequently, learners will further develop their surgical skills and experience basic operating room procedure during the intra-operative care of the patient. Finally, the learner will participate in the post-operative management of the patient. The leaner will develop an increased understanding of how to effectively communicate and function as an integral member of the surgical team. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5538. Women's Health Clerkship. 5 Credit Hours (Lecture: 37.5 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This 5-week clinical course introduces the student to the Women’s Health setting, where the learner, with supervision, will participate in routine well-woman screening and examinations, family planning and birth control, recognition and treatment of sexually transmitted disease, the evaluation of common gynecologic problems, cancer detection and prevention, and pre-intra-and postnatal care. Exposure and participation in the surgical management of gynecological and obstetrical concerns may also be provided. Emphasis is placed on further developing and refining the learners’ skills in taking a history; performing a physical exam; ordering and interpreting laboratory/diagnostic tests; synthesizing information in establishing a diagnosis; and formulating and implementing a cost-effective treatment plan and promoting patient education. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5539. Selective Clerkship I. 5 Credit Hours (Lecture: 37.5 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This 5-week clinical course may introduce the learner to a subspecialty setting where the student is exposed to common diseases and disorders within the subspecialty. Alternatively, The selective may be completed in a core discipline where the learner did not meet the competency benchmarks. Emphasis is placed on further developing and refining the students’ skills in taking a history and performing a physical exam, ordering and interpreting laboratory/diagnostic tests, synthesizing information in establishing a diagnosis, formulating and implementing a cost-effective treatment plan and promoting patient education. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5540. Selective Clerkship II. 5 Credit Hours (Lecture: 37.5 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This 5-week clinical course may introduce the learner to a subspecialty setting where the student is exposed to common diseases and disorders within the subspecialty. Alternatively, The selective may be completed in a core discipline where the learner did not meet the competency benchmarks. Emphasis is placed on further developing and refining the students’ skills in taking a history and performing a physical exam, ordering and interpreting laboratory/diagnostic tests, synthesizing information in establishing a diagnosis, formulating and implementing a cost-effective treatment plan and promoting patient education. Prerequisite: Must have successfully completed the Didactic Phase of the program.

PAHS 5612. Clinical Medicine I. 6 Credit Hours (Lecture: 20 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course integrates the epidemiology, risk factors (including genetics, as applicable), pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, history and physical findings, laboratory and diagnostic tests, differential diagnosis, therapeutic management, possible complications, prognosis, prevention measures, patient education and follow-up of disorders encountered in primary care across the lifespan. The course utilizes a systems approach and is delivered through a combination of traditional lectures and team-based learning (TBL) sessions. Organ systems covered in Clinical Medicine I include Dermatology, Ophthalmology, Otolaryngology, Cardiology, Pulmonary Medicine, and Hematology. Prerequisite: PAHS 5500, PAHS 5201, PAHS 5202, PAHS 5105, PAHS 5406, PAHS 5107, PAHS 5008.

PAHS 5613. Clinical Medicine II. 6 Credit Hours (Lecture: 20 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course integrates the epidemiology, risk factors (including genetics, as applicable), pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, history and physical findings, laboratory and diagnostic tests, differential diagnosis, therapeutic management, possible complications, prognosis, prevention measures, patient education and follow-up of disorders encountered in primary care across the lifespan. The course utilizes a systems approach and is delivered through a combination of traditional lectures and team-based learning (TBL) sessions. Organ systems covered in Clinical Medicine II include Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, Urology, Nephrology, Rheumatology, Orthopedics, Neurology, and Behavioral and Mental Health. Prerequisite: PAHS 5612, PAHS 5215, PAHS 5203, PAHS 5217, PAHS 5419, PAHS 5221, PAHS 5124, PAHS 5009.

PAHS 5614. Clinical Medicine III. 6 Credit Hours (Lecture: 20 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course integrates the epidemiology, risk factors (including genetics, as applicable), pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, history and physical findings, laboratory and diagnostic tests, differential diagnosis, therapeutic management, possible complications, prevention measures, prognosis, patient education and follow-up of emergent and non-emergent disorders encountered across the lifespan in primary care. Learners will apply knowledge obtained in Clinical Medicine I and II to specific populations and clinical situations. It is delivered through a combination of traditional lectures and team-based learning (TBL) sessions. Topics covered in Clinical Medicine III: Women’s Health, Surgery, Geriatrics, Pediatrics, Infectious Disease Part II, and Emergency Medicine. Throughout each module learners will engage in critical thinking and integration of clinical concepts exercises through team-based learning. Prerequisite: PAHS 5613, PAHS 5216, PAHS 5204, PAHS 5218, PAHS 5420, PAHS 5222, PAHS 5125, PAHS 5010.