News Summary
The USF Health Morsani College of Medicine recently held a Commitment to the Profession Ceremony, welcoming nearly 50 students into its new physician assistant program. During the event, students took the Physician Assistant Oath, emphasizing their ethical commitment to patient care. The ceremony highlighted the importance of empathy, integrity, and teamwork, while faculty members underscored the need for strong support systems as students embark on their demanding educational journeys towards earning a master’s degree. The program showcases the growing significance of physician assistants in healthcare.
Tampa, FL – The USF Health Morsani College of Medicine welcomed nearly 50 new students into its newly established physician assistant program during a Commitment to the Profession Ceremony held on October 3. This event marked an important milestone for the students as they begin their journey towards becoming medical professionals.
During the ceremony, the students took the Physician Assistant Oath, which underscores their commitment to upholding ethical care standards. This graduate program allows students to apply during their junior year of college, reflecting a serious dedication to their future careers in healthcare.
In her remarks, Kim Monroe, the clinical director of the physician assistant program, emphasized that the white coat worn by the students symbolizes trust, service, and dedication to patient care. This symbolism resonates throughout the ceremony, which is designed to instill essential qualities such as empathy, integrity, teamwork, and respect among physician assistants. Monroe also noted that the ceremony serves as a vital reminder for both students and faculty of their motivations for entering this rewarding profession.
Leading the oath, Larry Collins, associate director of the physician assistant program, highlighted the importance of understanding the commitment required to ensure patient health and safety. He also pointed out that establishing strong support systems will be crucial for students as they navigate the challenges of the rigorous curriculum.
The ceremony was described as more than just a formal event; it significantly reinforced the students’ commitment to providing quality patient care. Kristyn Migenes, a sophomore looking to join the program in future years, expressed her eagerness to contribute to patient well-being, inspired by her father, a microbiologist. Gemma Lucarelli, a junior currently preparing her application for the PA program, stated that her aspiration to help others aligns with her career choice, a motivation stemming from her sister’s positive experience in the health field. She is focusing on maintaining a strong GPA and pursuing volunteer opportunities to strengthen her application.
The physician assistant program is gaining momentum following its provisional accreditation, a result of extensive efforts from faculty over several years. This two-year educational journey will culminate in students earning a master’s degree in the field. The inaugural class is set to begin in May 2017, with expectations that the program will experience growing demand. As the role of physician assistants becomes increasingly significant in healthcare delivery, more students are likely to pursue this career path.
Furthermore, the School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences has recently relocated to the USF Health’s Shared Student Administration Building, further enhancing the programs offered within the college.
As the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine prepares to shape the future of healthcare through the training of these new physician assistants, the commitment ceremony serves as an essential step in the students’ professional development. The dedication of faculty and the strong support network in place are expected to be invaluable as students embark on their demanding educational journeys.
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Additional Resources
- USF Oracle: USF Physician Assistant Ceremony Welcomes 49
- GoUSFBulls: Former USF Football Standout Earns Master’s Degree
- USF Oracle: USF Physician Assistant Program Gains Accreditation
- St. Pete Catalyst: USF Health Opens the Doors to Morsani College of Medicine
- U.S. News: Larry Collins Overview
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