Steps to Getting Hired as a Physician Assistant

Steps to Getting Hired as a Physician Assistant

Becoming a Physician Assistant (PA) takes much longer than just deciding to submit a few applications one day. Of course, the journey to working as a certified PA starts with studying pre-requisites and completing a bachelor's degree; applying to, interviewing for, and accepting a seat at a PA program; passing a strenuous didactic curriculum and working at 8+ clinical rotation sites; passing (a lot of) standardized exams; and, finally, earning your PA-C.

But the steps after passing the PANCE are not always totally clear. When you should apply? Well, it depends a lot on what needs to happen to be hired! Read more to consider all of the steps of the hiring process for a PA.

1. Submit an Application with a CV and Cover Letter

The first step in the hiring process is to prepare and submit your application. This typically includes:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlight your education, clinical experience, certifications, and any relevant skills.

• Cover Letter: Write a tailored cover letter expressing your interest in the position and detailing why you would be a great fit for the role.

Make sure your CV is accurate, up-to-date, and leads with the most important information for the employer. Prepare to customize your cover letter for each job application to stand out and clearly relay why 1) you're a good fit for the job and 2) the job is a good fit for you.

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2. Prepare for and Complete Interviews

Once your application is submitted, you may be invited for an interview. Preparation is key:

• Research the Employer: Understand the mission, values, and services of the organization. Prepare to ask about the presence of PAs in their system and why they're interested in hiring you.

• Practice Common Interview Questions: Prepare answers for typical PA interview questions, focusing on your clinical skills, unique experience, teamwork, and problem-solving.

• Dress Professionally: Make a good first impression by dressing appropriately for the interview.

During the interview, be ready to discuss your experiences and how they align with the needs of the employer. And always be ready to ask questions.

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3. Review Your Offer(s) and Prepare for Contract Negotiation

If you receive a job offer, take the time to review it carefully:

• Salary and Benefits: Analyze the salary, benefits, and any bonuses offered. Understand how PAs are compensated and what metrics determine any bonuses or additional payments.

• Work Schedule: Understand the expected work hours and any on-call requirements. Who is responsible for your work when you're out of office or using paid time off (PTO)?

• Contract Terms: Pay attention to the length of the contract, termination clauses, and any non-compete agreements. Be sure to agree with all of the fine print before you sign.

Don’t hesitate to negotiate terms that are important to you, such as salary or additional benefits. And be prepared to compromise. Ask how long you have to respond, and use that time to deeply consider what is a "must-have" and what is a "would-be-nice."

4. Decide on a Timeline for a Start Date

Once you’ve accepted the offer, discuss a start date with your new employer. Consider:

• Your current obligations, such as completing any ongoing education or fulfilling notice periods at your current job.

• Time needed to relocate, if applicable.

• Time to complete any remaining certifications required for employment.

• Time to establish an active license in the state.

A clear timeline will help both you and your employer plan for your transition.

5. Confirm All Licenses and Certifications

Before starting your new position, ensure that you have all necessary licenses and certifications in place:

• State Licensure: Confirm that your Physician Assistant license is valid and up-to-date. Review state licensing boards here.

• National Certification: Ensure your certification from the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) is current. Make sure all of your recent continuing medical education (CME) is well-documented.

• Review Health System and State Practice Law: Know your legal practice requirements, and the expectations of the employer, prior to getting started.

Check with your employer if they require any additional certifications specific to the role, such as an active DEA license or specific CME.

6. Allow for the Employer to Complete Credentialing and Privileging

Credentialing is a crucial step that your employer will undertake:

• Verification of Credentials: Your employer will verify your education, training, and experience.

• Privileges: They will determine the scope of practice and privileges you will hold within the organization.

This process can take time, so be patient and responsive to any requests for information. Know that credentialing and privileging committees often meet monthly, so any delays to information processing may result in a significant delay of your start date.

7. Complete a Health Check

Most employers will require a health check before you start:

• Physical Examination and Fit Check: You will need to undergo a physical exam to ensure you meet health standards to practice. Your employer may also require an N95 fit check in order to ensure safety when seeing patients with precautions for communicable diseases.

• Immunizations: Confirm that you are up-to-date on required immunizations, such as the flu shot and others relevant to healthcare workers in your health system.

Make sure to complete this step promptly to avoid delays in your start date. Some employers have an occupational health office to meet these needs. Be sure to ask where you can be seen fastest and will fulfillment of all requirements.

8. Attend Orientation

Once all the preliminary steps are complete, you will likely attend an orientation:

• Introduction to the Organization: Learn about the culture, policies, and procedures of your new workplace.

• Meet Your Team: Get acquainted with your colleagues and supervisors, which will help ease your transition.

Orientation is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and gain insights into your new role. Learn the leadership at your institution, especially those responsible for assigning and/ or approving your pay, bonuses, promotion, leadership roles, and patient care duties.

9. Start Your Job with Onboarding!

Finally, you’re ready to start your new job! During the onboarding process:

• Training: Participate in any additional training programs specific to your role. There will likely be dozens of learning modules dedicated to ensuring compliances with health system requirements, safety protocols, and human resources.

• Integration: Begin working with your team and integrating into your new position. Ask questions with thoughtful consideration and prepare to do your own research. Becoming part of the team isn't just practicing together, it's also getting to know one another!

Embrace this new chapter in your career, and remember that continuous learning and adaptation are key to success as a PA. It may seem like a lot of paperwork, a lot of waiting, and a lot of training, but prepare yourself for success by following along and completing what's needed promptly. It'll all be worth it!