The Physician Associate Podcast

After many years of work, the General Medical Council has now begun statutory regulation of physician associates, as well as anaesthesia associates, in addition to doctors. Regulation will help assure patients, colleagues and employers that PAs and AAs have the knowledge and skills to work safely and that they can be held to account if serious concerns are raised. Professor Dame Carrie MacEwen was appointed as Chair of the GMC Council in May 2022. And she joins us on the podcast today, to discuss bringing PAs and AAs into regulation with the GMC. Carrie is a consultant ophthalmologist for NHS Tayside and Honorary Professor at the University of Dundee. She served as Chair of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges until 2020 and is Past-President of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists. Carrie has served on several committees in support of education, training and assessment and NHS committees regarding service re-design for general medical services. She chairs the multiprofessional subcommittee of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and also chairs the Trustee Board of the Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership, is a trustee of the Moorfields Eye Charity and she was a member of the council of the University of Exeter. Carrie was specialty ophthalmology advisor to the Scottish Chief Medical Officer for over a decade and led the Scottish Eyecare Workstream, ceasing this role in June 2022. She was the clinical co-lead for the ophthalmology ‘Getting It Right First Time' programme and the Eye Care Recovery and Transformation Programme for NHS England/Improvement.

In this episode, we welcome back Bob and Mark from Meducate Academy Bob and Mark have a wealth of experience in physician associate student education and simulation in medical education. Bob and Mark share their top tips for PA students on how to pass their exams. Find out more about https://www.meducate.academy/https://www.meducate.academy/

In this episode, we dive deep into the controversial topic of physician associates (PAs) in the medical community. Join us as we sit down with Professor Aneez Esmail, a renowned GP and academic, to explore the pros and cons of incorporating PAs into healthcare delivery. With his extensive experience and insights into the NHS, Professor Esmail offers a balanced perspective on the potential benefits and challenges associated with this emerging role. From patient safety concerns to workforce shortages, we'll examine the key arguments surrounding the debate on physician associates. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK

Today is Armistice Day, where we remember and pay tribute to those lost in conflicts, those who fight for our freedoms, our emergency workers and all those affected by terrorism. In this short special podcast episode, I speak about some schemes that are set up to support veterans, and signpost how physician associates can refer patients to the right places for veterans to get support.

Discover how the NHS is hoping to improve primary care with an innovative course, "Working with People and Communities to Improve General Practice in Primary Care." Join us as we delve into this online course designed to empower healthcare professionals to foster stronger connections with their communities. Learn about effective strategies for engaging patients, understanding their needs, and implementing inclusive approaches that improve the overall quality of primary care services. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK

Join us for an insightful conversation with Lyndsey Milcarek, a leading figure in global health advocacy for Physician Associates. Discover how Physician Associates for Global Health is making a significant impact on healthcare delivery worldwide. Learn about their initiatives, challenges, and the future of the PA profession in international settings. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK

Join us as we delve into a conversation of Physician Associates in primary care. In this episode, we're privileged to have Dr. Rebecca Rosen to discuss the strategies and challenges involved in integrating PAs into the primary care workforce.This episode was recorded prior to the announcement last week of the BMA's position to phase out PAs from the primary care workforce. You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK

Join us as we delve into the importance of mental and emotional well-being for physician associates. Our guest, Dr. Rachel Morris, host of the popular 'You Are Not a Frog' podcast, brings her unique perspective on stress management, burnout prevention, and finding balance in the demanding healthcare environment. Discover practical tips and strategies to enhance your own well-being and thrive in your role. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK

Join us for part 2 of a fascinating conversation with Partha Kar and Ajay Verma, two leading figures in the ongoing Physician Associate debate. Hear their insights on the future of the PA role, the challenges and opportunities facing PAs today, and their experiences of working as councillors for the Royal College of Physicians. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK

Join us for this episode for an insightful conversation with Professor Partha Kar and Dr Ajay Verma. We delve into the controversy surrounding physician associates and discuss their roles in the Royal College of Physicians. This is part 1 - with more to come next week. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK

In this episode, we hear from Christopher Snowdon who is the head of lifestyle economics at the Institute of Economic Affairs. Chris wrote a recent article, entitled The bizarre campaign against Physician Associates, in which he argues that the interests of doctors are being elevated above the interests of patients. Chris talks about he sees this as the driving force for the recent anti-PA campaign. Chris is the author of Killjoys, Selfishness, Greed and Capitalism, The Art of Suppression: Pleasure, Panic and Prohibition Since 1800, The Spirit Level Delusion, and, Velvet Glove, Iron Fist. You can find him tweeting at @cjsnowdon You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK

In this episode, we talk to Dr Richard Marks, anaesthetist in London and co-founder of Anaesthetists United (AU) . They are now in a legal battle with the General Medical Council (GMC)  over the way that regulation for PAs and AAs has been introduced. Specifically, AU feels that delegating the setting of scope of practice to individual hospitals, rather than having a nationally-set standard, is a mistake and puts both patients and Associates themselves at risk. AU are crowdfunding their legal case. You can contribute at https://www.crowdjustice.com/case/stop-misleading-patients/ and find out more about AU at www.anaesthetistsunited.com  And you can contact them at team@anaesthetistsunited.com You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK

In this episode, we chat with Alex and Aimme from the LGBT+ foundation. Our chat is about how physician associates can gain the knowledge and confidence to provide exceptional care to LGBTQ+ patients. Join us as we delve into the unique healthcare needs of this community, exploring topics such as understanding LGBTQ+ health disparities, building trust and rapport with LGBTQ+ patients and providing culturally competent and inclusive care. We also touch on navigating complex medical and surgical treatments and staying up-to-date with the latest guidelines and research.

In this episode, we hear from Ross Raymond-Jones, covering a range of topics, including his decision making process to becoming a PA, his experience as a PA ambassador, his involvement in PA education and his PhD journey. If you would like to find out more, please get in touch via LinkedIn www.LinkedIn.com/in/rraymond-jones

Professor Dame Clare Gerada - Dr Gerada is a registered Medical Practitioner with an understanding of and experience in the provision of general practice, mental health and addiction services. Professor Gerada joins me for this week's episode to chat about physician associates in primary care, and her thoughts on the PA profession. She has held several national roles in the NHS, working with Practitioner Health and is a previous president of the Royal College of GPs - although her comments in the podcast are her own and not representative of any other body.

In this fascinating episode we hear from Skye Rapson, Founder of the Unconventional Organisation and host of The ADHD Skills Lab Podcast.Skye is an academic with over seven years of experience working in adult education and is now a Doctoral Candidate in Population Health.Skye was diagnosed with ADHD at the start of her doctorate. Since then, she has dedicated time to researching and disseminating ADHD studies, focusing on supporting others with strengths-based, neurodiverse-friendly tools and systems. Skye aims to help Adults with ADHD go from a space of overwhelm to a state of focus, and then further helping them to becoming proactive and teaches them how to maintain that state. Skye and her organisation have helped hundreds of people manage a consistent proactive state with their process. Throughout this episode you will hear more about her journey through her ADHD diagnosis and she shares valuable tools and strategies to help others too. Skye aims to help adults with ADHD go from overwhelmed to focused, proactive and consistent as they reach their goals.  You won't want to miss this one!IG: Skye @unconventionalorganisation YouTube: Unconventional Organisation ADHDFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/UnconventionalOrganisationLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/unconventional-organisation/

Ever wondered what its like to be a physician associate student? Hear from Mahnoor Raja, who is a PA student, and the national student representative for the FPARCP You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK

In this episode, we welcome Hendrik Bollen, one of the first Physician Assistants (B. Sc.) in Germany. Hendrik shares his impressive journey: from studying as one of the first PA students in Germany, through his work in surgery and five years in the emergency department, to his current position at the University Hospital Essen. There, he works as a Project Manager in the Medical Strategy of the Board and is significantly involved in implementing the still new professional role of the Physician Assistant. Hendrik also discusses his initiatives to promote this emerging profession. Together with his co-founder, he launched several platforms in 2020, including the PA Blog, PA Jobs, and PA Academy, to support and develop the PA community. In this episode, you'll learn all about Hendrik's career, his goals, and his vision for the future of Physician Assistants in Germany. Get inspired by a true pioneer in healthcare! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

Rachel Nowikow was awarded the Physician Associate of the Year prize at the annual Faculty of Physician Associates conference in December 2023. Rachel is a PA in primary care, specializing in LGBTQ+ healthcare specifically non binary and transgender healthcare. Hear all about her amazing work, which goes above and beyond, and why she was nominated for the award in this week's podcast episode. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

The wonderful Medics Money podcast is co-hosted by Dr Ed Cantelo, who is not only a doctor but also a Chartered Accountant and Tax adviser. Ed joins us on the Physician Associate podcast, to share some of his fundamental knowledge about financial matters specifically for PAs and healthcare workers. Do check out their website for the podcast and resources here - https://www.medicsmoney.co.uk/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

This episode outlines all you need to know to understand your NHS Pension as a physician associate.  It will assist in clarifying the scheme or schemes you have membership in, the potential impact of the Age Discrimination Case, the importance of checking records and the peripheral benefits provided to you and your families as a result of membership. Our expert this week is Paul Gordon, a Medical Specialist Wealth Planner with Atomos find out more here https://www.atomos.co.uk/about-us/meet-the-teams/financial-planners/paul-gordon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode we hear from Dr Richard Pile. Richard is a GP partner and certified Lifestyle Medicine physician. Richard tells us about applying the principles of Lifestyle Medicine both personally and professionally, including during a GP consultation.  Richard also shares his experience of working with a PA in his practice, and why lifestyle medicine is an excellent area for PA's to be involved with. You can contact Richard here https://linktr.ee/DrRichardPile and check out his brilliant book here https://feelgoodforlife.uk/book/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode we talk to Matt Rai, a senior PA who has recently been focusing his efforts on making sure that PAs (and AAs) are getting additional support and guidance for their well-being during what has been a challenging time for MAPs. Whilst simultaneously working clinically in primary care and as an Assistant Professor at the University of Birmingham, Matt has devoted much of his spare time to brainstorming and planning how he can have a positive influence on the MAP community. Matt is running a series of wellbeing retreats for MAPs, the first of which is taking place at the Little Earth Centre in Wolverhampton on Saturday 25th May. This day is the first in a series of planned retreats designed to gather the MAP community and focus on community connection and well-being. For more information reach out to Matt on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/proactivehealthandwellnessuk?igsh=d3p2bmYybTlmbHh1&utm_source=qr Alternatively, if you are ready to book, tickets can be purchased from: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/physician-associate-anaesthesia-associate-wellbeing-retreat-tickets-875898956357 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, we talk to Jess Wickett, Lead PA at Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, about organising a conference for PAs. We discuss the role of a Lead PA, as well as what goes into planning a successful conference, which aims to celebrate PAs and provide some positivity in what has been a turbulent year for the profession. In addition, we discuss some exciting workshops; a 'Medical Escape Room' and an Ultrasound Workshop.  The PA Spring Conference will be held at Cheltenham Racecourse on the 23rd May 2024. It is a National Conference for all PAs & PA students, with a range of clinical & career-based topics. More information and tickets can be found here. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

Thanks for listening to the Physician Associate Podcast. It's been 3 years now since I launched the podcast, and I'm really proud to have gone over 100 episodes and 50,000 downloads! Thanks for all of your kind messages about the show. If you have time, please leave a review on your podcasts app about the show to help spread the word, so that more people can find out about the Physician Associate profession. Please tell your friends, family and colleagues about the podcast so that together we can highlight all the amazing things PAs are doing! I'm going to take a few weeks off releasing new episodes to enjoy Christmas - but if you have any ideas that would make great episodes for next season, please do get in touch! You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast on social media Twitter - ⁠@PApodcastUK⁠ Facebook - ⁠PApodcastUK⁠ Instagram - ⁠@PApodcastUK⁠  Look after yourselves working clinically this winter - it's going to be tough - and please watch out for your colleagues too. Looking forward to joining you for new episodes of the PA podcast next year. Thanks, James  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, I was invited as a guest to speak on another podcast - a series called the illuminating Primary Care Podcast - run by MenloPark, who are a primary care recruitment company. We discuss all aspects of the PA role, from qualifying through to working as part of a PCN and what the future looks like in general practice for PAs. Your can find out more about Menlo Park Recruitment on their website and check out their Illuminating Primary Care podcast series too. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode we talk with Nick Pollard, co-author of ‘Eating Disorders: An Oxford Specialist Handbook'. Combining evidence-based knowledge with personal experience (having supported his own daughter in her recovery from an eating disorder) Nick provides knowledge and skills that will help all Physician Associates to recognise, manage, and support specialist treatment for these devastating illnesses. The podcast includes a clip from the eLearning that accompanies the textbook. Checkout the eLearning at https://familymentalwealth.thinkific.com/courses/health-professionals-elearning-ED The first part is completely free, and you can get a 25% discount by entering this special e-coupon at the checkout… phapod237851 (discount available for 25 people on a first-come-first-served basis). You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

For #PAweek2023, I was hosted on the General Practice Podcast by Ben Gowland. Ben was the inspiration for me setting up the PA podcast, and he's been very supportive in helping behind the scenes. It was lovely to speak to Ben about the current issues facing the PA profession, and how things might develop in the future. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK And you can check out Ben's brilliant General Practice Podcast here --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, I hear from Dr Nabeel Arshad who is a GP at The Brooke Surgery. We discuss how the surgery is innovating primary care services, and the part that physician associates have played in their success. Hear more about how Physician Associates help The Brooke Surgery provide Unlimited Access 24/7, 365 to their patients. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, I chat with Dr James Gray - who is a GP and experienced Clinical Educator, with particular interests in leading the training of Physician Associates at the University of Sheffield We discuss topics such as training medical and PA students, how PAs are growing in the north of England and collecting research into physician associates. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode we hear from Natasha Warner about her community work on violence reduction and the work Natasha has been doing outside of her clinical role with an organisation called YourStance. To find out more you can visit Yourstance.org or contact Natasha via her email. Since the recording of the podcast, the signup method to Yourstance has slightly changed, if you would like to signup please do so via Volunteero link below or via the Yourstance webpage You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, we hear from Ben Wilkinson, a physician associate in acute medicine with a personal interest in research. We discuss the importance of healthcare education accessibility, as well as novel findings specific to physician associate students - and how these might be applied in the context of workforce crises. Ben also outlines his experience of adapting a post-graduate dissertation for academic publication, for which the pre-print can be viewed here: https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-2402719/v1  You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, we hear from Sabina Patel, a final year PA student and National student representative to the FPA on why she changed careers from companion diagnostics to a physician associate degree. We also talk about some of the help available to students during the current cost of living crisis as well as common questions to the FPA. If you'd like to find out more, Sabina can be contacted via LinkedIn or at sp31hcs@bolton.ac.uk Find out more about Student Finance England and UCAS about tuition fees. Some universities may off additional help with fuel or living costs - more information can be found on the finance page of the respective university. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, James Catton talks to PA Ria Agarwal about her research into supporting physician associates in difficulty. There are a number of different factors that can cause a PA to face difficulty in their career; money worries, relationships, complicated home lives and caring commitments to name just a few. There are a few tell-tale signs of how to spot this in a PA, and Ria shares her advice on how to help. James and Ria also talk about the differences between doctors in difficulty and PAs, and talk about some of these key publications. 1- Belonging is discussed by Nat Jones in regards ARRS: http://primarycaresheffield.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/ARRS-Report-PCS-Final-Version-September-2022-PDF.pdf… as well as the Kings Fund: https://kingsfund.org.uk/publications/courage-compassion-supporting-nurses-midwives… 2- Previous literature on a cohort of PA students identified they had more caring responsibilities and may be at higher risk of mental health needs compared to MBBS students: https://evidence.nihr.ac.uk/alert/physician-associates-need-support-establish-place-within-healthcare-workforce… 3- FPA census 2021 https://fparcp.co.uk/file/image/media/6343f3dc8cef2_MEMB_FPA_Census_Report_21_FINAL.pdf… 4- Guidance is available on our faculty's website regards PAs in difficulty https://pafacultysyb.co.uk/primary-care-pa-guidance… as well as our mentorship offer: https://pafacultysyb.co.uk/paa-resources 5- Prof Paice's piece on doctors in difficulty- https://magonlinelibrary.com/doi/abs/10.12968/hosp.2004.65.4.12739 You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - ⁠@PApodcastUK⁠Facebook - ⁠@PApodcastUK⁠Instagram - ⁠@PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

Orthopedics focuses on treating the musculoskeletal system (muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons). Join James Catton, as we uncover the remarkable journey of Jonathan, a trailblazing PA in orthopedics. This episode takes listeners on a captivating exploration of Jonathan Ogidi's life and career. From his early aspirations to his current role as a physician associate in orthopedics, gain insights into his collaborative approach, working closely with orthopedic surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible care for patients dealing with musculoskeletal conditions. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a student aspiring to join the medical field, or simply someone intrigued by the world of orthopedics, this episode promises to inspire and enlighten you. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this special edition, to celebrate the 100th episode of the physician associate, I asked my friends, colleagues and listeners of the podcast to send me some lovely voice messages --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode of the podcast, James Catton talks to physician associate Alex Maiello, who is the PA development manager at Hywel Dda University Health Board. Alex has created a bespoke Physician Associate Training Programme for PAs in primary care. We discuss the role of physician associates in primary care, the benefits of the two-year training program, and Alex's experience of working as a PA in Wales. Alex Maiello is a physician associate with 3 year experience and is passionate about the role of physician associates in improving access to care and providing high-quality patient care This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of primary care and the role of physician associates in GP surgeries. Alex is on Twitter @AlexMaielloPAR You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - ⁠⁠@PApodcastUK⁠⁠ Facebook - ⁠⁠@PApodcastUK⁠⁠ Instagram - ⁠⁠@PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, we discuss the role of physician assistants (PAs) in Canada with Kevin Dickson. Kevin is a Canadian PA in Emergency Medicine in Fredericton, New Brunswick. He is also the Canadian Association of Physician Assistants PA chapter president for New Brunswick. We talk about Kevin's experience of working in Canada. We discuss the benefits of PAs in the healthcare system, such as their ability to improve access to care and reduce wait times. We also discuss some of the challenges facing PAs in Canada, such as the lack of regulation across provinces. We conclude the episode by discussing the future of PAs in Canada. To find out more about PAs in Canada, check out their website. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - ⁠@PApodcastUK⁠ Facebook - ⁠@PApodcastUK⁠ Instagram - ⁠@PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

Physician associates are able to work in many different specialities across the breadth of medicine and surgery. Hear from Naju Ibrahim who is a Physician Associate in Vascular and General Surgery; Naju tells us all about her career so far, the types of patients she looks after and how she hopes her role as a PA might evolve in the future. You can find out more about the Vascular Society on their website or get in touch with Naju on LinkedIn. You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode of the podcast, we dive into the fascinating world of renal medicine with Izzie, a Physician Associate who brings her unique perspective to nephrology. With years of experience and a passion for patient care, Izzie sheds light on the role of a Physician Associate in managing complex renal conditions. From diagnosing and treating kidney diseases to collaborating with the multidisciplinary team, Izzie talks about the challenges and rewards of working in renal medicine. Hear about the intricacies of this specialized field of medicine, and gain a deeper understanding of how Physician Associates like Izzie are making a significant impact in the lives of patients with kidney disease. We also talk about Izzie's hopes for the future of her career in nephrology. You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

Are you a PA who wants to make more money? Tracy Bingaman is a physician assistant, who teaches PAs to make more money. Tracy is very honest with sharing her experience as a PA and getting burnt out at work. Tracy now spends her time helping others PAs achieve "work optional" financial independence. Tracy also hosts a fantastic podcast called 'The PA Is In' which you should definitely check out. Tracy's website is here if you'd like to find out more. You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

Shayan Ashjaei is a Neurology Physician Associate, based at King's College Hospital. I asked Shayan all about his background in neuroscience, his personal connection to wanting to work in neurology, and what he loves about the speciality. Shayan passionately explains his choice of specialising in neurology and provides a glimpse into his daily activities on the ward, which involve delivering exceptional patient care, participating in exciting procedures, and serving as an educator. Shayan is able to work on a number of clinical procedures including lumbar punctures, skin and muscle biopsies. Shayan has also developed, implemented and delivered regular lumbar puncture teaching and is trained to perform greater occipital nerve (GON) blocks for acute neurology patients with occipital neuralgia, cluster and cervicogenic headaches. Shayan has also worked on a “neurology virtual clinic” - a unique virtual post-discharge clinic for neurology inpatients' investigations, to improve follow up and the safety of patient care. For those seeking further information, Shayan can be contacted through his Instagram account, Neurolgy.PA, where he actively engages with followers and shares valuable insights about his journey in the field of neurology. You can get in touch with Shayan on his LinkedIn page You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

Kiran Landa is a Physician Associate, working in Clinical Paediatrics and health-tech innovation. A large part of Kiran's role involves research, software engineering and using technology. However, Kiran has had an interesting - and at times difficult - path to landing her dream job. Kiran gives us a frank and honest description of her struggles in her career so far, and we discuss dealing with burnout as a physician associate. You can get in touch with Kiran on LinkedIn You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

A trade union is a group of employees who join together to maintain and improve their conditions of employment. The typical activities of trade unions include providing assistance and services to their members, collectively bargaining for better pay and conditions for all workers, working to improve the quality of public services, political campaigning and industrial action. Nearly seven million people in the UK belong to a trade union. There is a trade union for doctors - the British Medical Association (BMA) - but there isn't yet a trade union for physician associates. I spoke with Susan Singleton, who has begun to make progress towards setting up a PA union about her plans. You can connect to Susan's PA Buddy Support Network on Facebook and the PA Association UK on Twitter. You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, I was lucky enough to meet the award winning operation team for medical education at Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. I'm joined by Marylyn Dickinson, associate director of medical education and non-clinical lead for PAs, Dr Cara Hendry, consultant cardiologist and clinical lead for PAs and Chelsey Clarke, lead PA/PA in acute medicine. The team won the PA contribution award at last year's FPARCP conference. The team is dedicated to overseeing all PA students on placements, promoting the PA role to all workforce education committees, delivering regional CPD days and a whole lot more to help support the PA profession in their area. You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (the Academy) is the membership body for the UK and Ireland's 24 medical royal colleges and faculties. It sets the standards for the way doctors are educated, trained and monitored throughout their careers. The Academy also plays a leading role in clinical quality, public health and works closely with organisations such as the NHS, the General Medical Council and patient groups on projects designed to improve the quality of care. I was lucky enough to speak to Dame Helen Stokes-Lampard, who is currently the Chair of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges  and previous Chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners. I spoke with Helen all about physician associates, and how the Royal Colleges might support the development of the profession in the future. We also touch on a range of other subjects, including the use of social media for professionals. You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

Last week, there were lots of headlines about the Medical Doctor Degree Apprenticeship. I wanted to find out more about this apprenticeship, and how it might help grow the future medical workforce and attract and recruit from a wider pool of people in the local community.  The Apprenticeship gives individuals, who for a multitude of reasons may have been unable to attend university full time, a new route to train as a doctor. Or it may be a method of career development for physician associates who want to train to become doctors. To find out more, I spoke with Dr Sanjiv Ahluwalia - Head of School of Medicine and a General Practitioner. Sanjiv told me more about the Apprentice will be employed by a healthcare provider organisation.  Apprentices study flexibly alongside work, so they can put newly acquired knowledge and skills into practice immediately, for the positive benefit of service users and patients. Medical Doctor Degree Apprentices will do the same training, at the same high standard as those taking traditional educational routes.  Click here to find out more about the apprenticeship. You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

I was lucky to chat with Mohammed Hussain who is the programme Lead for Physician Associate studies at University of Bradford and a very experienced Physician Associate in Primary Care. We talk all about what it is like to work in physician associate education and how academia can be a good pathway for PAs to develop their own career. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, I wanted to find out more about how Physician Associates work in different part of the United Kingdom. For this episode, all about PAs in Northern Ireland, I'm joined by Professor Louise Dubras - the Foundation Dean of the School of Medicine at Ulster University and PA Dan Meehan who is the Course Director for Physician Associate Studies Ulster. We're also joined by Dr Gareth Lewis who is a Consultant in Acute Medicine at Antrim Area Hospital. To find out more about the Ulster Uni course on their website. You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, I was lucky enough to be joined by Dr Paul Silverston. Paul was the Director of Primary Care Education at The Postgraduate Medical Institute, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford and Senior Lecturer in Clinical Assessment and Minor Illness Teaching at Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge. Paul is currently Visiting Professor of Primary Care at University of Suffolk and a Visiting Professor at Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, where he is currently developing an online educational programme in minor illness for student paramedics. Paul has an interesting history with the PA profession, and shares his thoughts about the past, present and future of physician associates. You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, we hear from Donya Mighty regarding her journey as a physician associate studying to become a doctor. Donya is currently a third year graduate entry medical student at the University of Warwick. We discuss her experiences as a mother studying medicine, how to fund a medicine degree as a graduate and her perspectives on differences in course content between MSc/PGDip Physician Associate Studies and MBChB Medicine. We also touch on the current BMA Junior Doctor #PayRestoration campaign and her thoughts on this as a future doctor.  If you'd like to find out more about entry requirements for graduate entry medicine, Donya recommends having a look at the following website: https://www.medschools.ac.uk/studying-medicine/making-an-application/entry-requirements?type=graduate-entry-medicine  0To get in touch with Donya, please see her instagram page @futuredoctormighty  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message