Program Competencies

Elon University PA Program in Charlotte Competencies

 

Medical Knowledge & Clinical Reasoning

  1. Apply critical thinking to diagnose and manage acute, chronic, and emergent health conditions across the lifespan.
  2. Access, interpret, and integrate credible medical literature and evidence-based guidelines into patient care decisions.
  3. Apply principles of epidemiology and population health to identify health concerns, risk factors, prevention strategies, and health promotion efforts in communities.

Clinical & Technical Skills

  1. Obtain an accurate medical history, perform a physical examination, develop a differential diagnosis, order and interpret laboratory testing and imaging, diagnose, treat and manage medical conditions.
  2. Develop, implement, and evaluate patient management plans that are safe, cost-effective, and evidence based.
  3. Demonstrate proficiency in medical and technical procedures essential to PA practice while adhering to safety and quality standards.

Interpersonal Communication 

  1. Provide compassionate, equitable, and culturally responsive care that respects the patient, their values, preferences, and health literacy needs.
  2. Counsel, educate, and empower patients and caretakers to engage in shared decision-making and self-care.
  3. Assess patients holistically considering environmental influences, cultural norms, socio-economic factors, and beliefs when managing their care.
  4. Communicate effectively with patients, caretakers and others.

Interprofessional Collaboration and Leadership

  1. Demonstrate the ability to coordinate care and communicate within interprofessional teams.
  2. Articulate the role and responsibilities to patients, caretakers and healthcare teams.
  3. Advocate for patient needs.

Professionalism & Ethics (Professional behaviors)

  1. Adhere to professional standards and legal requirements.

Practice-Based Learning

  1. Demonstrate self-awareness by identifying strengths, addressing areas in need of improvement, and seeking ongoing professional development.

Health Care Finance and Systems

  1. Obtain the skills to improve patient care and access.
  2. Recognize financial implications of the provision of health care.
  3. Understand different types of health systems, and funding systems.

Program Policies