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Armed Forces Physician
Assistant Program
Manual
Saint Francis University CERMUSA
117 Evergreen Drive
Loretto, PA 15940
Phone: 814-472-3389
Fax: 814-472-2830
Web address: www.francis.edu/afpap
Email: [email protected]
AFPAP Program Manual Page 2
Armed Forces Physician Assistant Program
Saint Francis University
CERMUSA
117 Evergreen Drive
Loretto, PA 15940
Phone: 814-472-3389
Fax: 814-472-2830
Web address: www.francis.edu/afpap
Email: [email protected]
Program Manual
Contact Information:
Program Director: Melissa Kagarise, DHSc, PA-C
814-472-2703
Medical Director: Kip Benko, MD
Administrative Assistant/Admissions Coordinator:
Jean Kline
814-472-2708
Network Support Specialist:
Shawn Stevens
1-866-476-0382
Dean School of Health Science:
Patricia Fitzgerald, PhD, CSCS
814-472-3121
AFPAP Program Manual Page 3
Table of Contents
Mission and Vision……………………………………………………….………….4
Program Overview……………………………………………………….………….4
PA Profession…………………………………………………………….…………5
Values…………………………………………………………….…………5
Code of Ethics………………………………………………………….……6
Graduate Student Competencies…………………………………………….………7
Statement of Nondiscrimination……………………………………………….……8
Program Technical Standards…………………………………………….………….9
Distance Learning……………………………………………………………………9
Application and Admission…………………………………………………………13
Program Paradigm………………………………………………………………….15
Didactic……………………………………………………………………..16
Clinical……………………………………………………………………...19
Student Assessment…………………………………………………………………23
Program Matriculation……………………………………………………………...24
Academic Policies………………………………………………………….……….26
Student Responsibilities…………………………………………………………….29
Graduation Requirements………………………………………………….………..33
Resources……………………………………………………………………………33
AFPAP Program Manual Page 4
Mission/Vision & Philosophy
Our Mission:
Through an innovative technological infrastructure, we will prepare individuals from the armed
forces to become health practitioners who will provide competent and compassionate healthcare
to serve as leaders in affecting health disparities worldwide.
Our Vision:
The Armed Forces Physician Assistant program faculty, students and graduates will:
Be rooted in Franciscan Values
Be advocates for the needy and marginalized
Be life-long learners dedicated to continuous quality improvement
Provide service to culturally diverse populations
Be leaders in the profession
Philosophy of Pedagogy:
Faculty in the Armed Forces Physician Assistant Program are encouraged to creatively utilize the
latest in educational media and online course management tools to provide the highest quality
instruction to students in a virtual classroom setting. Pedagogical strategies will seek to engage
the student in an active teaching-learning environment that encourages processing of course
content into effective, working knowledge of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to patient
care.
Physician Assistant Education and the AFPAP
The first Physician Assistant (PA) training program was founded in 1965 at Duke University by
Dr. Eugene Stead. The first PA students were mostly military medics (or corpsmen) who were
able to expand on the knowledge and experience they received in the military to move into a role
in primary care.
Returning to the professions origin, Saint Francis University has developed this distance based
PA program to provide military health personnel an opportunity to extend their training in
pursuit of a Physician Assistant degree.
The Armed Forces Physician Assistant program (AFPAP) is a distance learning program
designed for military health personnel in preparation for post military careers. The goal of this
program is to provide an accessible academic program to bridge the gap in the transition from
military to civilian practice.
The AFPAP is a 60 credit, part-time distance learning program spanning 24 months of
didactic instruction and 12 months of clinical experience training. The distance based
design of this program allows students to remain within their military/civilian
communities sustaining their current positions. Content will be delivered through a robust
AFPAP Program Manual Page 5
technological infrastructure utilizing a variety of synchronous and asynchronous applications.
Virtual classroom software and content management systems will provide the foundation for
content delivery and objective assessment.
Clinical experiences will be completed during the students third year of program enrollment.
Students will be required to document a minimum number of clinical experience hours in
primary care, psychiatry, surgery, women’s health and pediatrics. The program will arrange the
clinical experiences to be completed predominately within military medical facilities.
Upon successful completion of the AFPAP, graduates will be awarded a Master of Physician
Assistant Science degree. Graduates will then be eligible to sit for the Physician Assistant
National Certification Examination to obtain their PA-C designation.
Statement of Values of the Physician Assistant Profession
Physician assistants hold as their primary responsibility the health, safety, welfare, and
dignity of all human beings.
Physician assistants uphold the tenets of patient autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence,
and justice.
Physician assistants recognize and promote the value of diversity.
Physician assistants treat equally all persons who seek their care.
Physician assistants hold in confidence the information shared in the course of practicing
medicine.
Physician assistants assess their personal capabilities and limitations, striving always to
improve their medical practice.
Physician assistants actively seek to expand their knowledge and skills, keeping abreast
of advances in medicine.
Physician assistants work with other members of the health care team to provide
compassionate and effective care of patients.
Physician assistants use their knowledge and experience to contribute to an improved
community.
Physician assistants respect their professional relationship with physicians.
Physician assistants share and expand knowledge within the profession.
Taken from American Academy of Physician Assistants Guidelines for Ethical Conduct for the
Physician Assistant Profession
(Adopted 2000, amended 2004, 2006, 2007, and 2008) website http://www.aapa.org/manual/22-
EthicalConduct.pdf
AFPAP Program Manual Page 6
Code of Ethics
Code of Ethics of the Physician Assistant Profession
The American Academy of Physician Assistants recognizes its responsibility to aid the
profession in maintaining high standards in the provision of quality and accessible health care
services. The following principles delineate the standards governing the conduct of physician
assistants in their professional interactions with patients, colleagues, other health professionals
and the general public. Realizing that no code can encompass all ethical responsibilities of the
physician assistant, this enumeration of obligations in the Code of Ethics is not comprehensive
and does not constitute a denial of the existence of other obligations, equally imperative, though
not specifically mentioned.
Physician Assistants shall be committed to providing competent medical care, assuming as their
primary responsibility the health, safety, welfare and dignity of all humans.
Physician Assistants shall extend to each patient the full measure of their ability as dedicated,
empathetic health care providers and shall assume responsibility for the skillful and proficient
transactions of their professional duties.
Physician Assistants shall deliver needed health care services to health consumers without regard
to sex, age, race, creed, socio-economic and political status.
Physician Assistants shall adhere to all state and federal laws governing informed consent
concerning the patient's health care.
Physician Assistants shall seek consultation with their supervising physician, other health
providers, or qualified professionals having special skills, knowledge or experience whenever the
welfare of the patient will be safe-guarded or advanced by such consultation. Supervision should
include ongoing communication between the physician and the physician assistant regarding the
care of all patients.
Physician Assistants shall take personal responsibility for being familiar with and adhering to all
federal/state laws applicable to the practice of their profession.
Physician Assistants shall provide only those services for which they are qualified via education
and/or experiences and by pertinent legal regulatory process.
Physician Assistants shall not misrepresent in any manner, either directly or indirectly, their
skills, training, professional credentials, identity or services.
Physician Assistants shall uphold the doctrine of confidentiality regarding privilege patient
information, unless required to release such information by law or such information becomes
necessary to protect the welfare of the patient or the community.
AFPAP Program Manual Page 7
Physician Assistants shall strive to maintain and increase the quality of individual health care
service through individual study and continuing education.
Physician Assistants shall have the duty to respect the law, to uphold the dignity of the physician
assistant profession and to accept its ethical principles. The physician assistant shall not
participate in or conceal any activity that will bring discredit or dishonor to the physician
assistant profession and shall expose, without fear or favor, any illegal or unethical conduct in
the medical profession.
Physician Assistants, ever cognizant of the needs of the community, shall use the knowledge and
experience acquired as professionals to contribute to an improved community.
Physician Assistants shall place service before material gain and must carefully guard against
conflicts of professional interest.
Physician Assistants shall strive to maintain a spirit of cooperation with their professional
organizations and the general public
Taken from American Academy of Physician Assistants Guidelines for Ethical Conduct for the
Physician Assistant Profession
(Adopted 2000, amended 2004, 2006, 2007, and 2008) website http://www.aapa.org/manual/22-
EthicalConduct.pdf
Student Competencies
The Physician Assistant profession defines the specific knowledge, skills, and attitudes that are
required by practitioners of the profession. Educational curriculum must provide a
comprehensive program for physician assistants to acquire and demonstrate these competencies.
The competencies below reflect the expectations as they pertain to graduates of the Armed
Forces Master of Physician Assistant Science program.
1. MEDICAL KNOWLEDGE
General Definition: Medical knowledge includes an understanding of pathophysiology,
patient presentation, differential diagnosis, patient management, surgical principles, health
promotion and disease prevention. Physician assistants must demonstrate core knowledge
about established and evolving biomedical and clinical sciences and the application of this
knowledge to patient care in their area of practice. In addition, physician assistants are
expected to demonstrate an investigatory and analytic thinking approach to clinical
situations.
2. INTERPERSONAL & COMMUNICATION SKILLS
General Definition: Interpersonal and communication skills encompass verbal, nonverbal
and written exchange of information. Physician assistants must demonstrate interpersonal
AFPAP Program Manual Page 8
and communication skills that result in effective information exchange with patients, their
patients families, physicians, professional associates, and the health care system.
3. PATIENT CARE
General Definition: Patient care includes age-appropriate assessment, evaluation and
management. Physician assistants must demonstrate care that is effective, patient-centered,
timely, efficient and equitable for the treatment of health problems and the promotion of
wellness.
4. PROFESSIONALISM
General Definition: Professionalism is the expression of positive values and ideals as care is
delivered. Foremost, it involves prioritizing the interests of those being served above one’s
own. Physician assistants must know their professional and personal limitations.
Professionalism also requires that PAs practice without impairment from substance abuse,
cognitive deficiency or mental illness. Physician assistants must demonstrate a high level of
responsibility, ethical practice, sensitivity to a diverse patient population and adherence to
legal and regulatory requirements.
5. PRACTICE-BASED LEARNING AND IMPROVEMENT
General Definition: Practice-based learning and improvement includes the processes through
which clinicians engage in critical analysis of their own practice experience, medical
literature and other information resources for the purpose of self-improvement. Physician
assistants must be able to assess, evaluate and improve their patient care practices.
6. SYSTEMS-BASED PRACTICE
General Definition: Systems-based practice encompasses the societal, organizational and
economic environments in which health care is delivered. Physician assistants must
demonstrate an awareness of and responsiveness to the larger system of health care to
provide patient care that is of optimal value. PAs should work to improve the larger health
care system of which their practices are a part.
A detailed description of each competency is available on the web.
Nondiscrimination Statement and No Harassment Policy
Saint Francis University, inspired by its Franciscan and Catholic identity, values equality of
opportunity, human dignity, racial, cultural and ethnic diversity, both as an educational
institution and as an employer. Accordingly, the University prohibits and does not engage in
discrimination or harassment on the basis of gender, age, race, color, ethnicity, religion, sexual
AFPAP Program Manual Page 9
orientation, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any protected classification. The
University is committed to this policy based upon its values and in compliance with federal and
state laws. This policy applies to all programs and activities of the University, including, but not
limited to, admission and employment practices, educational policies, scholarship and loan
programs and athletic or other University sponsored programs.
Inquiries or complaints may be addressed to Ms. Heather Meck, Chief Human Resources
Officer/Affirmative Action/Title IX Coordinator, Saint Francis University,102 Raymond Hall,
Loretto, PA 15940 (814) 472-3264.
Technical Standards for Program Admission, Progression and Graduation
Technical standards are the skills, abilities, and attributes necessary for students to complete their
physician assistant educational training and ultimately enter clinical practice. The Armed Forces
Physician Assistant program will not discriminate against qualified individuals but will expect all
applicants and students to meet certain minimum academic and technical standards. In
compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act, reasonable
accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with a disability.
The Armed Forces Physician Assistant program seeks to graduate students who will have the
knowledge and skills to function in a broad variety of clinical situations and render a wide
spectrum of patient care. The following technical standards have been developed to ensure that
the candidate possess the necessary skills, abilities and attributes in areas of observation,
communication, motor skill, intellectual abilities, and behavior. These are pre-requisites for
entrance to, progression through, and graduation from the Armed Forces Physician Assistant
program.
The complete technical standards are available on the web.
Distance Learning and Technology
In order to complete coursework during the program, students should meet the following
minimum technology requirements:
Systems Requirements
Must have at high-speed bandwidth; examples – DSL, Cable modem, T1, Satellite, and
Fractional T1.
Windows Macintosh (MAC)
Windows OS 2000, XP, Vista Mac OS 10.3 or higher
Minimum 128 MB RAM or higher (256 kbps
recommended for the live streaming)
Minimum 128 MB RAM or higher (256 kbps
recommended for the live streaming)
Microsoft IE 6.0 SP1 or higher
FireFox 2.0 or later
Apple Safari 2.0.4 or higher (Java enabled)
FireFox 2.0 or later
Silverlight 1.0 (viewers will be promoted to
install this when viewing a presentation)
Windows compatible sound card Sound card
Display resolution 800x600 pixels or greater Display resolution 800x600 pixels or greater
AFPAP Program Manual Page 10
Java Script and cookies must be enabled Java Script and cookies must be enabled
Additional software required for Blackboard:
o Microsoft Word 97 -2007
o Microsoft Excel 97 - 2007
o Microsoft PowerPoint 97 -2007
o Apple Quick Time 6 (plug in)
o Shockwave, Flash & Authorware
o Adobe Acrobat Reader
o Real Networks RealPlayer
o Microsoft Media Player 9.0 or later
Respondus Lock down browser may be utilized for secure testing purposes.
Each course may require additional technologies and will be listed within the course syllabi. In
particular, courses may utilize Wimba for interactive components. Students must have a headset
with a boom microphone for this application. Web cameras may be utilized with Wimba and the
following web cameras are supported:
Brand Model
Apple iSight
Ecamm iMage webcam
Creative Live! Cam Video IM Pro
Live! Cam Voice
WebCam Live! Motion
WebCam Live! Ultra
Logitech Orbit MP
Pro 3000
Pro 4000
Pro 5000
QuickCam Express
QuickCam Fusion
QuickCam Messenger
QuickCam Notebook Deluxe
Microsoft LifeCam NX-6000
LifeCam VX-1000
LifeCam VX-6000
Unsupported Cameras
Brand Model
Creative iMage webcam
Prior to enrolling in or completing any courses, students should complete the technology test
page: http://paonline.cermusa.francis.edu/idctest. This test page will help the student to test their
current computer and system in order to verify ability to access program materials and complete
AFPAP Program Manual Page 11
coursework as required. Student should contact the network support specialist to resolve any
issues that arise.
Distance Learning Environments:
10 Questions for an Online Student
Online learning is learner-driven, internet-based instruction delivered through an online platform.
Students can access their online materials 24 hours a day, seven days a week via any Internet-
accessible computer. Before beginning your education at a distance, take some time to consider
the following questions:
1. Do you have the necessary equipment?
The Armed Forces PA Program courses are delivered online through the Saint Francis
University’s Blackboard learning management system. You will need frequent access to a high-
speed Internet-accessible computer to complete your coursework. Many online students elect to
print their assignments, instructions, study materials, etc. While a printer is not a requirement for
taking an online course, it is certainly beneficial for online students. Digital cameras and a
webcam may be used within a course to document your work and to conduct online meetings
with faculty members. Be sure to check the course requirements as listed within the syllabus to
ensure that you have all of the necessary equipment.
2. Do you have basic computer skills?
To succeed in an online course, it is vitally important that you are comfortable working on a
computer. Basic keyboarding skills are imperative for online students as the main forms of
communication are conducted electronically. You do not need to be a computer expert to excel in
an online course; rather, listed are some of the tasks that you will need to accomplish:
send and receive email
send, download and open attachments
word processing skills
organize files and folders on your computer
download and rename files
conduct internet research using a search engine
attend online meetings and lectures
3. Will your schedule allow you to spend adequate time on this class?
Many adult learners fulfill multiple roles including learner, parent, spouse, caregiver, employee,
volunteer, etc. Each of these responsibilities requires time. If you budget your time wisely, you
AFPAP Program Manual Page 12
can be successful in an online environment with the least amount of stress. No one can know
your schedule like you. That sounds like a simple obvious statement, but many people don’t
really know their schedules or how much time they have available. Track your time
commitments and make a hard copy of a schedule you can follow. Keep your schedule handy
and make adjustments. With distance education courses, the distinction between “class” time and
“study” time blurs together. Students should expect to spend approximately six to nine hours
each week on a distance education course.
4. Do you practice good time management skills?
Stay on top of the coursework! It is too easy to put off the work for an on-line class;
procrastination can be your biggest enemy. Everyone has some anxiety and stress when taking
classes, handing in graded assignments, and taking tests. The best way to relieve anxiety is to
avoid procrastination. With online courses, it's better to get your work done ahead of time so if
problems occur, personal or technical, they can be resolved prior to the deadline.
5. How would you rate your overall study skills?
Strong study skills are vital to your success in distance education courses. Knowing and
practicing study skills that work best for YOU will aid in your success. Outlining class materials,
creating your own review cards, and typing out your notes are all helpful study methods.
6. How would you rate your reading comprehension?
Take a moment to evaluate your reading comprehension skills. The majority of online material is
presented in written format. It's important to realize you cannot just skim over the content and be
able to have a clear understanding of when assignments are due and what is expected of you.
Strong reading comprehension skills are needed to succeed in an online course.
7. Are you comfortable communicating in a written forum?
Most communication in an online class consists of written messages between you and the
instructor along with discussions among class participants. If you have difficulty with an
assignment or have questions, you must be willing to compose a message to inform the
instructor.
8. Are you willing to ask questions?
AFPAP Program Manual Page 13
There will be times when you have a question about your online course. Online instructors
cannot read your body language and may not know if you are having problems. If you have a
question, don’t be afraid to ask! In addition, be sure to describe the problem clearly so that your
instructor or classmates can offer solutions.
9. Do you have an appropriate learning environment?
Some students require a virtually silent place to study while others can concentrate regardless of
what is going on around them. Designate a learning area that is comfortable for you to complete
your coursework and where distractions can be minimized. Have everything you need nearby
and handy.
10. Are you up to the challenge?
In an online course, the instructor is a facilitator, not a lecturer. You must take the responsibility
for your own learning. Information will be presented in your textbook and through lesson
content, PowerPoint presentations, video, and Websites. It is up to you create your own learning
path and monitor your own progress.
Application and Admissions:
In order to be eligible for admission, all applicants must:
Be military personnel within a health-related field, stationed within the continental United States.
• Be a United States citizen
• Have a Baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution. Those with a baccalaureate
degree from a non-U.S. institution must have their transcripts evaluated by an approved
service.
• Speak English. Applicants whose primary language is not English must submit scores
from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
• Have completed the following prerequisite courses with a grade of “C” or better
o Anatomy and Physiology (8 credits) (must have lab). This requirement can be
fulfilled as either two combined Anatomy and Physiology courses or individually
as one course in Anatomy and one course in Physiology.
o Chemistry (8 credits) (must have lab) – coursework must include general
chemistry and organic or biochemistry.
o Microbiology (4 credits) (must have lab)
o Statistics (3 credits)
o Psychology (3 credits) – Introductory or upper level psychology course
o Medical Terminology Course (1-3 credits)
AFPAP Program Manual Page 14
CLEP examination or advanced placement credit may not be used to meet any of the pre-
requisite requirements.
• Should have an overall GPA of 2.8 and a cumulative GPA for all prerequisite coursework
of a 3.0.
CLEP examination or advanced placement credit will not be figured into the GPA calculations.
• Have, at minimum, four years of direct (“hands-on”) patient care experience in either a
military or civilian healthcare setting.
• Submit three letters of recommendation
o Two letters of recommendation should be clinical references. These letters should
be individuals who have been in a supervisory capacity (Military and/or Civilian
Physicians, Physician Assistants, or Nurse Practitioners) who are familiar with the
applicants’ health care experience.
o One letter of recommendation should be a character reference attesting to the
applicants suitability into the profession. This letter of recommendation can be
from a non-related military or personal contact.
• Must complete distance learning readiness assessment (online).
• Must meet program technical standards.
Applications will be accepted beginning January 1 of each year. Applicants will not be
considered until all application material has been received and verified, including:
completed online application form,
3 letters of recommendation, either through online submission or original document
mailing,
original transcripts must be received through mail from all training institutions, and
as necessary, TOFEL and degree verification if Bachelors was obtained through non US
school.
The application can be found at http://paonline.cermusa.francis.edu
The application form will become available on January 1st of each year. Applicants will have
until April 1st to complete the online application form and submit all of their supporting
materials. Applications that are incomplete at that time will not be considered. Complete
application packages will be evaluated by the program on a revolving cycle as they are received.
Applicants that score at or above the determined interview invite score will be invited to
participate in a panel interview conducted through VTC or conference call technologies. These
interviews will occur on a revolving basis from late January to mid-June. Scoring totals from the
application and interview will aid in the final determination of the applicant’s eligibility by July
1st. Acceptance, wait list or denial letters will be sent to the student no later than July 1st for the
mid-August program start date.
Contact the Admissions Coordinator or the Program Director for additional details on the
application process.
AFPAP Program Manual Page 15
Distance Learning Readiness Assessment (READI)
The Distance Learning Readiness Assessment (READI) is an online tool that will be utilized as a
student self assessment tool as part of the admissions requirements. The system compares
personal attributes, learning styles, reading rate and recall, technical competency, as well as
typing speed and accuracy against research standards and provides a diagnostic report to the
student as well as the system administrator. The system also provides remedial information for
students to brush up on skills needed to succeed in online learning. It is required as a part of the
application to help the student prepare as well as provide the faculty with background
information on student strengths and weaknesses in distance learning. Additional information on
the program can be found at http://www.readi.info/
Program Sequencing
The AFPAP is a part-time distance learning program spanning 24 months of didactic instruction
and 12 months of clinical experience training. The distance based design of this program allows
students to remain within their military/civilian communities while the part-time design offers
the ability for students to sustain current positions.
Students will begin the program as a cohort in August of each year and simultaneously follow
the prescribed 3 year program paradigm. The didactic training will follow the University
semester schedule of Fall (August-December), Spring (January-May) and Summer (May-
August) semesters. Students will be registered for 6 credits each semester during the didactic
phase of training allowing the student to remain eligible for financial assistance.
Didactic courses are sequentially arranged to build upon acquired knowledge through the
progression of the curriculum. Content will be delivered through a robust technological
infrastructure utilizing a variety of synchronous and asynchronous applications. Virtual
classroom software and content management systems will provide the foundation for content
delivery and objective assessment.
Course sequencing has been planned to enable the student to develop the competencies necessary
for practice. Sequential course offerings build upon previous knowledge and competencies and
have been implemented to aid the student’s progress through the curriculum. Students are
required to complete each course within the paradigm as defined through the paradigm. The
program does not accept credit for courses completed elsewhere.
The table below outlines the program paradigm.
Year 1
Didactic
Fall Semester PHYO 500 Healthcare System (2)
PHYO 502 Ethical Issues in Healthcare (3)
PHYO 504 Introduction to Pharmacology (1)
Spring Semester PHYO 506 Evidence Based Medicine and Research
Methodology (3)
PHYO 508 Anatomy and Physiology (3)
Summer Semester PHYO 510 History and Physical Examination I (3)
AFPAP Program Manual Page 16
PHYO 514 Clinical Medicine I (3)
Year 2
Didactic
Fall Semester PHYO 518 Diversity in Healthcare (3)
PHYO 520 Clinical and Surgical Procedures (2)
PHYO 597 Special Topics (1)
Spring Semester PHYO 511 History and Physical Examination II (2)
PHYO 515 Clinical Medicine II (3)
PHYO 522 Emergency Medicine (1)
Summer Semester PHYO 524 Pediatrics and Geriatrics (3)
PHYO 526 Behavioral Medicine (2)
PHYO 530 Clinical Practice Skills (1)
Year 3
Clinical
Fall Semester PHYO 600 Primary Care I (8)
Spring Semester
PHYO 602 Primary Care II (4)
PHYO 610 Medical Specialties I (4)
PHYO 697 Summative Evaluation (0) P/F
Summer Semester
PHYO 612 Medical Specialties II (4)
PHYO 620 Masters Capstone Experience (4)
PHYO 698 Summative Remediation(0) P/F
Students will officially graduate during the Universities August graduation date. Students have
the opportunity to walk during commencement exercises held on campus in May. If a student
wishes to attend the campus graduation ceremonies, they should contact AFPAP indicating such.
The student will be directed to complete the appropriate forms through the registrars’ office.
Didactic Training
Didactic instructional content is based on meeting PA program accreditation standards while
focusing on preparation for the Physician Assistant National Certification Examination
(PANCE). A description for each didactic course is available in the University catalogue or on
the web.
Blackboard CE will be the content management system (CMS) for all course work. Students
will receive a login ID and password for access to their courses. Courses will be located at
http://courses.francis.edu . Training on how to navigate the Blackboard system will be available
within the CMS through a variety of venues including instructional videos, written documents
and online networks including Facebook and Twitter.
Students should follow the technology support guidelines for problems arising within the BBCE8
course management system. Technology support guidelines are published at the AFPAP
website.
AFPAP Program Manual Page 17
Select Course Logistics
Orientation Sessions:
The first week of each academic year will consist of orientation activities. These activities will
include course orientation, student expectations, advising, focused learning activities covering
topics to include professionalism. These orientation sessions will be posted on Blackboard in the
Program center.
PHYO 530 Clinical Practice Skills (1)
Students will be registered for the 1 credit Clinical Practice Skills course during the last semester
of the didactic training (Year 2 summer). This course will allow the student to demonstrate
proficiency in performing practical procedures in medical practice. The student will effectively
perform select procedural and physical examination skills in an interactive environment,
demonstrating the mastery of these skills.
This course will require the student’s attendance at a selected conference location. Students will
be required to attend this scheduled 3-4 days of intensive instruction and practical testing. During
the conference, students will meet with program faculty to perform clinical practice skills testing,
including history and physical examination skills, clinical procedure skills, and interpersonal and
communication skills. The program will provide the necessary supplies to conduct the clinical
skills procedures and complete the course requirements. Students will be required to bring their
physical examination equipment, outlined within the course syllabus.
The venue may be the IDC/IDMT Armed Forces Operational Medicine Symposium, typically
scheduled in May/June. Arrangements for attendance at this symposium are the responsibility of
the student and should begin early enough to gain clearances to attend. Students should contact
the Program Director for extenuating circumstances prohibiting the student from attending.
PHYO 597 Special Topics (1)
Students will be registered for a Special Topics course during their didactic training. Under the
guidance of faculty, this course will provide the student with an in-depth exploration of selected
subjects in healthcare. Students will have the opportunity to integrate and apply their clinical
knowledge and didactic coursework to develop their skills as leaders in the health profession
affecting diverse populations.
This course will cover selected topics as opportunity arises. It is anticipated that this course will
incorporate lectures to provide the didactic training toward certification as a brain injury
specialist. Student’s meeting the practice setting qualifications may choose to pursue the full
training program.
Certified Brain Injury Specialist Training Program:
The certification program will follow training guidelines set forth by the Academy of Certified
Brain Injury Specialists (ACBIS) http://www.acbis.pro/ . Instructional content will be presented
AFPAP Program Manual Page 18
through the SFU Special Topics course by a certified brain injury specialist trainer. Students
meeting the eligibility requirements (see below) can choose to pursue the certification and
complete necessary clinical requirements at the Hiram G. Andrews Brain Rehabilitation Center
in Johnstown, PA during the their clinical year of PA training. In conjunction with the PA
program’s clinical coordinator, the student will arrange to complete the required hands on
training in order to become eligible to complete the certification examination.
Eligibility Requirements for Certified Brain Injury Specialist:
1. Applicants must have worked or have had direct contact with one or more individuals
with a brain injury, 10 hours per week (25% of a 40 hour work week) for a minimum of
12 months. Part-time employment must accomplish the same amount of required contact
time within a two-year period.
2. Experience can be employment and/or academic internship.
3. The qualifying experience must have included formal supervision or have been
conducted while the applicant operated under a professional license. Volunteer work
does not qualify.
4. The qualifying experience must have been obtained within the three years prior to the
application.
5. Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Detailed information on the course will be published on the AFPAP website as they are finalized.
E*Value Patient Tracking and Evaluation System
AFPAP will utilize the E*Value web and PDA-based clinical tracking system for documentation
of clinical experience requirements and evaluation. Students will be required to utilize the PxDx
Case Logger system to track patient encounters, procedures and diagnoses. In addition, clinical
based evaluation requirements will be completed through this tracking system.
Students will obtain an individual license to E*Value covered through student technology fees.
Students will be required to utilize this program in a variety of ways throughout the curriculum.
Specific requirements will be listed within each course syllabi as necessary.
Physician Assistant Clinical Knowledge Rating and Assessment Tool (PACKRAT)
The PACKRAT examination is an online test that consists of 225 questions following the current
NCCPA Physician Assistant board examination blueprint. Students will be required to complete
the PACKRAT examination several times throughout the program. This will be utilized as a tool
to assist the program and the student in gauging their preparedness for clinical coursework and
ultimately national board examination. Part of the program’s technology fee will be utilized to
purchase the examination.
AFPAP Program Manual Page 19
Students will complete the PACKRAT examination near the end of each year of the program.
Based on semester sequencing, the student will complete the examination in the summer (May-
August) of years 1-3. Completion of the examination at the end of year 1 will assess student
knowledge base after the first year of didactic coursework and provide documentation for areas
of continued educational need. This will be used to help the student focus efforts in learning
through the second year of didactic training. In addition, the aggregate results will be utilized by
program faculty to direct additional course content need.
Any student not scoring at or above the national average on the PACKRAT will complete
remedial assignments specific to the areas of weakness documented in the results. Students who
score below the national average on the PACKRAT examination during their 2nd
year will be
required to complete a remedial exercise, reflective of the areas of weakness. This remediation
may include; research and writing, completion of case scenarios either individually or with
academic advisor, additional hours of clinical work in specified areas with prescribed
documentation requirements, and/or other assignments. The student’s academic advisor will be
responsible for verifying student completion.
Clinical
The third year of the program is designated for clinical experiences. The clinical year is designed
to assess the student in primary care settings first and then will expand into medical specialties
later in the year.
Saint Francis University Armed Forces
Physician Assistant Program
Clinical Year Curriculum
Fall (August-December) Spring (January-May) Summer (May-August)
PHYO 600 Primary Care I
(8)
PHYO 601 Primary Care II (4)
PHYO 610 Medical Specialties I
(4)
PHYO 697 Summative
Evaluation (0)
PHYO 611 Medical Specialties
II (4)
PHYO 620 Masters Capstone (4)
PHYO 698 Summative
Remediation
During the clinical rotations, students will be under the supervision of a preceptor. The preceptor
will be evaluating the student on their knowledge and skills while they are working with them.
Students will utilize a patient tracking program, E*Value, to track their patient contact hours.
Students are required to log a specified number of hours in each of the main areas. Primary care
hours will encompass the majority of hours during the clinical year. A breakdown of the required
hours is shown on the table below.
AFPAP Program Manual Page 20
Clinical Area Required Hours
Primary Care 750 hours
Psychiatry (inpatient and outpatient settings) 80 hours
Surgical Settings 80 hours
Women’s Health (Obstetrics and Gynecology) 100 hours
Pediatrics 100 hours
Minimum total clinical experience hours 1,110 hours
At the end of each clinical experience, students will complete an online multiple choice
examination covering content that should have been learned within that setting. This will assess
the student’s knowledge base in preparation for the national boards. Additionally, students will
be required to submit various patient contact documents including; history and physical
examination, SOAP notes, admission orders, etc.
Clinical practice experiences for this program will be provided through civilian based medical
facilities. Military based medical facilities including Veterans homes/hospitals may be utilized
pending affiliation agreement processing. It is anticipated that long-term care exposure will be
arranged with veterans care facilities. These experiences will be arranged by the program’s
clinical coordinator. During the year 2 orientation week, the clinical coordinator will review
clinical experience requirements and meet individually with each student to determine where the
student will be located during the clinical year. The student will have the opportunity to identify
potential preceptors with whom the student would like to complete any experiences during this
time. This provides the opportunity for the program to develop affiliations with facilities near the
student, decreasing the need for the student to relocate in order to complete experiences. The
clinical coordinator will verify training affiliation agreements or initiate affiliations with
facilities local to the student. Any experiences that cannot be completed local to the student will
be scheduled at the sites established sites, around the US.
Every attempt will be made to arrange clinical experiences in the facilities where the student is
located. If all clinical experience requirements cannot be met at that facility, the program will
arrange to have the remaining clinical experiences completed at any of the programs established
sites across the United States. It will be the student’s responsibility to make appropriate
arrangements to complete the experiences, as scheduled, regardless of location. It is the
student’s responsibility to secure travel and housing arrangements for their clinical experiences.
The program does not provide transportation to or housing at clinical sites.
PHYO 600 Primary Care I (8) & PHYO 601 Primary Care II (4) The Primary Care preceptorship series will provide the clinical year PA student the opportunity
to participate in health care within the primary care setting. Through hands on work under the
direction of a clinical preceptor the student will document experience in:
Family Medicine
AFPAP Program Manual Page 21
Emergency Medicine
Internal Medicine
Inpatient, Outpatient Care
Long Term Care
Students registered for Primary Care Preceptorship I will be required to log a minimum of 500
direct patient contact hours. While registered for the PCP II, students will be required to log a
minimum of 250 contact hours.
PHYO 610 Medical Specialties I (4) and PHYO 611 Medical Specialties II (4)
The Medical Specialties series will provide the clinical year PA student the opportunity to
participate in health care within the several specialty areas of clinical practice. Through hands on
work under the direction of a clinical preceptor the student will document experience in:
Psychiatry- Inpatient and outpatient care
Surgery – pre-op, post-op, and operating room
Women’s Health – Obstetrics and gynecology
Pediatrics
The medical specialties series will provide the student the opportunity to participate in health
care within several specialty areas of clinical practice. Students will be required to log a
minimum of 180 hours in each Medical Specialties course with minimum hour requirements for
each area.
Medical Specialties clinical areas of experience:
80 hours in Psychiatry
o Inpatient and outpatient
80 hours in Surgery
o Pre-op, post-op, operating room
100 hours in Women’s health
o Obstetrics
o Gynecology
100 hours in Pediatrics
At the completion of the clinical experiences, students will have logged a minimum of 1, 110
patient contact hours accurately reflecting the part-time program design.
In order to confirm students experiences in each of the required settings, students will document
patient contact hours electronically using the E*Value system, a web-based clinical tracking
system. http://www.advancedinformatics.com. Information on how to use this program will be
provided in the program orientation sessions and is published on the CMS.
Once the student has completed the required number of clinical hours within their assigned
experience, assessment of knowledge and skill will be completed through computer based
testing, written clinical documentation, and preceptors evaluations. Students’ clinical
AFPAP Program Manual Page 22
performance and knowledge will be evaluated by the clinical preceptor supervising them. A short
evaluation form will be completed at the middle of the experience and an in-depth evaluation at
the end of the experience. These evaluations will be submitted electronically to the Clinical
Coordinator, either through E*Value or email. Students will complete an online multiple choice
examination covering topics pertinent to the clinical experience just completed.
Clinical training site requirements and policies will be identified on the sites’ profile. The
clinical coordinator will present detailed clinical experience policy and procedures during
clinical planning sessions (orientation, advising etc.).
Clinical Student Identification:
Students will be required to wear their Saint Francis University Armed Forces Physician
Assistant student identification while completing their clinical experience hours.
Summative Evaluation:
Students will be registered for the 0 credit pass/fail summative evaluation course during the 2nd
semester of the clinical year. This course will be utilized to assure that the student has met the
program graduate competencies and is prepared to enter clinical practice. The summative
evaluation will consist of a program cumulative multiple choice examination and OSCE
simulations. Students will be required to obtain an average of 80% or better in order to receive a
passing grade. Students not receiving a passing score will be required to register for the 0 credit
summative remediation during their final clinical semester. Students registered for the
summative remediation will be required to meet with their academic advisor to develop a plan
for remediation and re-assessment.
OSCE Case Simulations- students will be required to complete 3 case simulations
through distance based testing techniques. These case simulations will include history
and physical examination, diagnostic testing and interpretation, differential diagnosis,
treatment, patient education and follow-up for select patient populations. These case
simulations may be provided through distance based simulation model experiences.
Program Cumulative Multiple Choice examination
Masters Capstone
Students will be required to complete a Masters Capstone. This course is a 4 credit course that
will allow the student to demonstrate the ability to apply the knowledge and skills gained
throughout the program with the completion of this substantive project. A patient health based
project will include research on a topic of need for a specified population, design of an
educational tool, a plan for implementations, and identification of anticipated outcomes.
Development of patient education programs, educational projects, hospital based quality
assurance projects, etc, are all examples of projects that may be completed for the capstone
AFPAP Program Manual Page 23
project. The student will be expected to prepare a scholarly paper detailing the project activities
and anticipated outcomes in addition to the actual product.
Students will be required to complete this capstone experience with a grade of “C” or better in
order to be eligible to graduate.
Student assessment techniques
Students will be assessed throughout the PA program utilizing a variety of assessment tools to
document attainment of program competencies. Assessment of student performance can include:
multiple choice examinations, fill in the answer examinations, case scenarios, clinical skills,
preceptor/supervisor evaluations, written assignments, literature reviews, project completion,
interactive case studies and other forms of assessment. Each course within the PA program
paradigm will outline specific assessment techniques utilized for that course.
Grading Policy
The grading system follows the University’s “+” and “-“letter grade system. Specific point
calculations for each grade are as follows:
A = equal to or greater than 92.50%
A- = 88.50 - <92.50%
B+ = 86.50 - < 88.50%
B = 82.50 - <86.50%
B- = 79.50 - <82.50%
C+ = 77.50 - <79.50%
C = 72.50 - < 77.50%
D = 62.50 - < 72.50%
F = < 62.50%
Grades are calculated to the second decimal and are not rounded.
Additional grade options include:
I (Incomplete): This grade may be used when the student has failed to complete all course
requirements by the end of the semester. It is intended to be used in cases when small amounts
of course work remain to be completed. Students are required to complete the remaining course
work no later than 14 days after the beginning of the subsequent semester. Any “I” grade that is
not replaced by a letter grade with the defined time period will be automatically changed to the
grade of “F”. See University Catalogue.
CN (Continuing): This grade is used when unusual circumstances make it difficult or impossible
for a student to complete course work by the end of the semester. This grade my only be used
when the student initiates the process. This option should be discussed with the course instructor
as soon as it becomes apparent to the student that he/she will be unable to complete the
coursework as required. The student and instructor will determine the plan and date for course
AFPAP Program Manual Page 24
completion. The program director will be notified and will confirm the plan. Appropriate forms
will be completed and submitted to the registrar’s office. Assignments not completed by the
deadline date outlined in the CN contract will cause the course grade to be reverted to “F”. See
University Catalogue
P/F (Pass/Fail): The Comprehensive (Summative) Examination will utilize the Pass/Fail grading
option. The grade for the course will be calculated to either a P for passing or F for failing.
Calculation of GPA is defined within the University catalogue and utilizes the course grade,
associated quality point value for that grade and the course credits.
Program Matriculation
Student’s matriculation through the program will be constantly monitored by program faculty
and staff through a variety of mechanisms including, but not limited to:
Academic performance and progress reviews of students at weekly faculty meetings
Student advising sessions
Evaluations from preceptors and faculty
Progression through the program requires the student to successfully complete each course with
a grade of “C” or better. Students must document the minimum number of clinical experience
hours obtaining a final grade of “C” or better in their clinical coursework. A student’s
progression through the curriculum may be delayed or stopped as a result of poor academic
performance.
If a student receives a “D” in any course, they will be required to repeat that course. This will
result in an alteration of program progression. A plan for remediation will be developed through
the PAPeR committee. A student receiving a second “D” during program matriculation will be
dismissed from the program.
Areas of concern will be addressed and followed up with through program processes including
Identification- faculty identification through course assessment scores, participation,
adequate progress, preceptor concerns or student identified concerns.
Notification- program and student identified concerns will be addressed at weekly faculty
meetings.
Discussion- Analysis of circumstances will occur to include student input as necessary
and an action plan will be developed.
Remediation- Appropriate remediation techniques will be implemented in conjunction
with the student
Re-evaluation- Re-evaluation and follow-up will be reported at a subsequent faculty
meeting.
Reporting- A report will be filed within program and/or student files.
Student Progress Review committee:
The Physician Assistant Performance Review Committee (PAPeR) is composed of program
faculty, student representatives and outside educational or clinical representatives. This formal
AFPAP Program Manual Page 25
committee may be convened when students fail to meet program standards. At the request of
program faculty or the program chair, this committee may meet to review a student’s academic
or professional performance. Individual students may also request a review by the committee
through a written request to the program chair detailing the reasons for review. Actions that may
be determined through the PAPeR committee may include, requiring the student to repeat
courses or change of the program progression, suspension from the program, probation, or
program dismissal. Decisions of the PAPeR committee will be final. For appeal beyond the
PAPeR committee students should follow the University processes for appeal past the
department level.
Alteration of Program Progression/deceleration:
A student’s progression through the program may be altered as a result of academic or personal
reasons. These situations will be reviewed on an individual basis and an appropriate progression
plan will be developed in consultation with the student. Academic failures will require the
student to repeat course work and delay original graduation date. Personal circumstances
requiring the student to take a leave of absence will delay original graduation date.
Documentation will be maintained in the student file.
Probation:
Students may be placed on academic probation as a result of failure to meet program progression
standards. The determination of probation may be a result of PAPeR committee
recommendations. A student placed on probation will receive notification from the program
director on the individualized probationary status. A probationary status will require the student
to meet defined academic and professional objectives throughout the probationary period. These
objectives will be determined based on the individual circumstances. Examples of objectives
include, requirement to complete specific remediation activities that may include tutoring,
maintenance of specific grades, completion of additional assignments or activities, etc. A
student placed on probation will be monitored by their academic advisor who will report to the
program director until the terms of the probation have been met. All documentation associated
with academic progress, including probationary status, will be kept within the students file.
Program withdrawal:
Voluntary withdrawal from the Physician Assistant Program may be initiated by a student after
submission of a letter to the Program Director requesting withdrawal. In the letter, the student
should outline the circumstances and reasons for withdrawal. Students will be requested to
conduct an exit interview with the Program Director prior to leaving the Program. All students
are further advised to follow the University catalog procedure for withdrawal from the
University.
Program dismissal:
Dismissal from the program can be a result of poor professional and/or academic behaviors and
performance. In the event of program dismissal, students will meet with the program director
and a formal dismissal letter will be provided.
AFPAP Program Manual Page 26
Any student wishing to appeal the programs decision are required to follow University appeals
processes outlined in the University catalogue and/or student hand book.
Leave of Absence:
The program recognizes that personal circumstances may require the student to request a leave of
absence for a defined period of time. Students must submit a request for a leave of absence to
the program director to include the circumstances and duration for the leave. Medical, personal
and military circumstances may require the student to request a leave. The program director will
review the request with the student and provide documentation of the requirements for the leave
and subsequent return. In addition to PA program processes for requesting a leave of absence,
the student will be required to complete any processes within the University for withdrawal from
courses or extended leave.
Students called to active military service will be required to provide documentation of military
orders to the Registrar. Detailed information on the processes for applying for a leave as a result
of military service is defined within the University student handbook.
Re-admission: Students returning from a military leave requesting re-admission to the University
will be automatically re-admitted with all admissions fees waived. The student’s academic
standing at the time of re-admission shall remain as it was prior to the call to active military duty.
Students returning from medical or personal leave will return with the same academic standing
as when they left. Students may be required to demonstrate retention of knowledge upon return
from an extended leave. This may include successful completion of assessments covering prior
instructional content. These will be outlined within the process of the granting of the leave.
It is the student’s responsibility to contact the program director near the end (approximately 6-8
weeks) of the leave to make arrangements for returning to coursework.
Tuition Refunds:
Tuition refunds follow University policy and are outlined within the University catalogue.
Refunds are based upon percent of payment reflective of time of the withdrawal within the
semester.
Acceptance into the program and completion of the program does not guarantee successful
completion of the national certifying examination for physician assistants or employment.
General Academic Standards/Policies
Academic Accommodation
The Armed Forces Physician Assistant Program supports opportunities derived from the ADA
legislation and encourages students to pursue their educational goals. Students requiring
accommodation are encouraged to identify their needs as soon as possible to enable reasonable
evaluation and accommodation.
AFPAP Program Manual Page 27
Individuals are not obligated to disclose disability unless accommodation is desired. If a student
chooses not to disclose this information, didactic faculty and clinical rotation sites are not
obligated to make any accommodations. If a student chooses to delay disclosure,
accommodations cannot be made retroactively.
The process for verifying disability and determining accommodation can take several weeks. It
is recommended that students with known accommodation needs wishing to disclose this
information can and should initiate the process immediately after they have received their
acceptance letter. The student should contact the University’s Academic Center for Enrichment
to begin the process.
Information regarding a disability is confidential and only those individuals responsible for the
evaluation of the requests and those responsible for providing the recommended
accommodations will have access to this information.
Student Advising
Each student will be assigned an academic faculty advisor through program matriculation. The
advisor will meet with the student periodically throughout the academic year (beginning, middle
and end) of each semester. The advising sessions will provide the opportunity to review student
progress, initiate remedial assistance as necessary, and discuss issues of technology, organization
and experience among other topics.
Remediation
The need for student remediation may be identified by the student, the academic advisor, course
instructors, faculty, or clinical preceptors. The recommendation for remediation will be
presented to the program director and will be discussed within the weekly faculty meetings. The
student’s academic advisor will meet with the student to discuss the issues surrounding the
performance concerns and develop a recommendation for remediation that may include referral
to the University’s Academic Center for Enrichment or tutoring assistance through the individual
instructor, peer or adjunct. Documentation will be placed within the students file containing the
recommendations, actions and results.
Student Referrals
As part of the student advising program, faculty can provide the student with appropriate referral
information for academic and non academic issues. A student requiring academic assistance will
be referred to the University’s Academic Center for Enrichment. Non academic issues may be
referred to the University Counseling center or appropriate outside referral system.
Student Files
Files will be kept on each student enrolled within the program. These files will contain
admissions materials, didactic and clinical evaluations, correspondence (advising, remediation,
health clearance, student requests, etc).
Students may request access to material contained within their files including didactic and
clinical evaluations, advising and remediation documents, health clearance reports, etc. Students
AFPAP Program Manual Page 28
will not be able to view individual admissions evaluation forms. A written request must be sent
to the program director indicating the specific documents wishing to be viewed. Documents will
be provided through protected, secured electronic formats.
Student Evaluation:
Student assessment will incorporate a variety of evaluation tools in order to ensure students meet
the program graduate competencies. The following is an example of some of these assessment
measures that can be utilized throughout the program:
Course examinations/assessments
Course assignments
Written documentation
Practical Examinations
Presentations
Clinical Experience evaluation
Timely submission of materials
Professional behaviors
Assessment techniques and policy will be defined within each course and is determined by the
course instructor and program.
Students are expected to complete all assessments as scheduled within the program courses. If a
student is unable to complete an examination at the scheduled time, it is the student’s
responsibility to notify the individual instructor as soon as the conflict is identified. The
instructor will determine possible make up strategies if available.
Basic Assessment Policies
Computer based examinations may be scheduled to be completed at a defined time. It will be the
student’s responsibility to make appropriate arrangements to complete the assessment
requirements as scheduled.
Examinations may be completed through utilization of a lock down browser. Students will be
provided with instruction on appropriate use. Time limitations may be implemented during
various examinations. Additional technology applications may be utilized to confirm that the
student is the originator of work. Any student who does not follow examination protocols or
who is caught cheating will be required to appear before the PAPeR committee for determination
of penalty. This may include failure of that assessment, failure of the course, dismissal from the
program and/or dismissal from the University.
Students will have the opportunity to review exam content following the groups’ completion of
that assessment. This review may be conducted as an overall exam review or may allow the
students to individually review their own examination. It will be the instructor’s determination
on the type of examination review that will be offered.
Individual course faculty will determine policy on the challenge of examination questions.
Students should follow the guidelines set forth by the instructor.
AFPAP Program Manual Page 29
Student employment while enrolled in the program:
The AFPAP has been developed to address the needs of the adult learner. Course sequencing
within the program has been developed to be completed as a part-time paradigm allowing the
student to maintain current employment activities. Students must carefully evaluate the demands
of employment with meeting program requirements. Although designed as a part time PA
program, coursework may be intensive and may require a full time commitment from the
student. Although didactic coursework may be reasonably completed while maintaining current
employment, clinical experiences will be demanding and require students to complete clinical
hours at defined times, typically between 7AM-5PM, depending on the site schedule. Students’
will be required to complete the clinical experiences as scheduled by the program.
Should it become apparent that the student is unable to complete program requirements as a
result of personal work/duties, student will meet with the PAPeR committee for
recommendation. Actions may include:
Leave of Absence from the program
Recommendations for adjustment in outside obligations in order to focus on academics
Program deceleration
Program withdrawal
The program does not allow students to be employed within the program itself. Additionally,
while completing clinical experiences, students are not to be employed by or substituted for
clinical or administrative personnel. All clinical sites are aware of student work requirements
and should be reported if policy is not maintained.
Student Appeals, Grievance and Harassment:
Students have the right to file appeals or grievances following University policy. Appeals or
grievances must be filed in writing and follow the appropriate chain for notification. In general,
the process should follow instructor → Program Director →Dean of Health Sciences → Provost.
Students are referred to the University and student catalogues for details on filing an appeal or
grievance.
Program faculty and staff are responsible for addressing and processing of the appeal/grievance.
All processes will be documented within appropriate program files.
All harassment complaints should follow the published university policy located within the
student handbook, available on the web.
Student Responsibilities
It is expected that every student will exhibit initiative and responsibility in planning and
completing the professional training for physician assistant practice. The student must comply at
all times with the regulations and administrative procedures governing study within the Armed
Forces Physician Assistant Program.
Professional conduct
AFPAP Program Manual Page 30
Professionalism is foremost in training within the health sciences at Saint Francis University.
Students will be held to the highest standards in professionalism throughout their academic
career. The faculty will continually evaluate the student in areas of professionalism in
congruence with the physician assistant code of ethics and will hold students to these standards
with the same expectations as academic and clinical performance standards. Students receiving
poor evaluative scores relative to professional attitudes and behaviors will be required to appear
before the PAPeR committee. Students can be academically failed for unprofessional behaviors
alone.
The abilities to graciously accept and effectively profit from constructive criticism, assume
personal responsibility for one’s own actions, meet stated and implied requirements and
expectations, willingly take and follow through upon direction to completion, and exhibit
flexibility and the spirit of cooperation during unexpected or adverse conditions are essential to
becoming a true professional.
Every student must obey local, state and federal laws and statutes and comply with the policies
of Saint Francis University, the School of Health Sciences and the Armed Forces Physician
Assistant Program. Unprofessional conduct is unacceptable and warrants appropriate corrective
or disciplinary action by the University, the School of Health Sciences and the Armed Forces
Physician Assistant Program that may include dismissal from the Program and/or the University.
Academic honesty
Academic honesty is an essential part of the Saint Francis University experience. Dishonesty in
any aspect of the life of the University is viewed as being incompatible with its moral tradition.
Academic dishonesty will not be tolerated. Cheating, in any form, will be considered a serious
offense. Students are advised to review the University's Academic Honesty Policy. Participating in any
form of academic dishonesty will be grounds for disciplinary action and may result in receiving a
failing grade for the course. Students should understand that choosing to cheat may jeopardize
their enrollment in the course and subsequently the Program.
It is expected that all material submitted is the student’s original work and is not a reproduction
of another student or Internet material. Students are expected to give appropriate credit to
original authors and utilize appropriate reference citations based on the APA style guidelines.
Plagiarism will result in, at the minimum, a “0” for that assignment, but may result in dismissal
from the program.
Attendance and Participation
Active student participation in all course/program activities is required. Scheduled course and
program requirements will occur throughout the student’s matriculation. These activities are
mandatory. Program faculty will utilize various student tracking tools to ensure each student is
actively completing course and program requirements. Specific difficulties in meeting all
AFPAP Program Manual Page 31
program activities must be addressed with the course instructor, professional advisor, clinical
preceptor, and/or the Program Director as appropriate.
Course Requirements: Courses are offered through a distance learning platform. Each
course will be unique in the approach to meeting course objectives. Synchronous and
asynchronous methods of instruction may be utilized within the courses and will contain
defined attendance requirements. Students must contact the course instructor for issues
affecting the ability of the student to complete all learning activities as scheduled.
Excessive absence or accommodation from scheduled course requirements will be
brought to the Program Director and may be brought to the Physician Assistant
Performance Review (PAPeR) Committee for review and action. Action may include,
but is not limited to, failure of a course necessitating a repeat of that course, deceleration
of the student within the program or program dismissal.
Program Requirements: Students are expected to meet program requirements for
progression and graduation, as scheduled. Those students who do not meet these
requirements will be brought to the PAPeR committee for review and action.
Recommendations of the committee will be based on the student’s program progress to
date and the individual circumstances surrounding the situation. Action may include,
repeat of coursework, student deceleration, and/or program dismissal.
Clinical Site Requirements: Students will be expected to meet the requirements of each
clinical site in addition to any program requirements for the preceptorship. Program
requirements will be defined within the syllabus and site requirements should be defined
by the preceptor at the start of each preceptorship. It is the student’s responsibility to
notify the site preceptor and the program’s Clinical Coordinator with issues in meeting
the requirements of the site/program as scheduled.
Virtual Classroom Etiquette/Netiquette and Appropriate Communications:
The same guidelines that apply to traditional classes should be observed in the virtual classroom
environment. Please use proper netiquette when interacting with class members and the
professor.
Proper Identification
At all times, students must display a clean, well-kept appearance that includes, clean, pressed
clothing and good personal hygiene. Clinical attire, as defined by individual clinical sites,
including Saint Francis University student identification is required while the student is in the PA
student role.
Evaluations and Surveys
Students will be required to complete, course, instructor and program evaluations throughout the
program. These evaluations are necessary for the continuous assessment and improvement of the
program. These will typically be available for completion through on-line formats. The
AFPAP Program Manual Page 32
Program will provide the necessary supplies if an evaluation is to be completed through other
means. Failure to complete evaluations as required my result in withholding of grades.
All students will complete an Exit Interview prior to graduating from the Program.
The interview will be conducted during the final months of the program. This interview will be
conducted through distance based methods and/or media. Students will be asked to provide
responses to questions regarding their complete educational experience. Points of discussion will
include the didactic and clinical curriculum and preparation for meeting the programs graduate
competencies.
A graduate survey will be conducted 6 months after graduation. This graduate survey will be
available through a distance based survey platform. This graduate survey will focus on obtaining
data on the student’s impression of program effectiveness in preparing the student for clinical
practice. Additional data gathered during this survey will include graduate job placement
information.
Student Health
Students are required to submit a medical history, physical examination and specific laboratory
testing documents at program entry. These must be updated at the start of clinical experiences.
Documentation is to be submitted to the SFU student health center for review and clearance.
The program will not receive the students’ individual health information, but will receive a
clearance form for each student indicating the student has submitted all required documentation
and is cleared.
Students will be required to submit documentation of a physical examination completed within
the past year at enrollment. Students will be required to update this examination prior to
beginning the clinical experiences. In addition, students will be required to submit
documentation for the following:
IMMUNIZATIONS:
_____ POLIO (If no documentation must do titer)
_____ MMR (1&2)
_____ TETANUS Booster with pertussis (Tdap)
_____ HEPATITIS B SERIES
_____ INTRADERMAL PPD (2 Step)
TITERS:
_____ RUBEOLA (MEASLES) TITER
_____ RUBELLA SCREEN/TITER {if negative must receive boosters}
_____ MUMPS TITER
_____ VARICELLA TITER
(If negative, Varivax Series) 1__________ 2__________
_____ HEPATITIS B TITER (Surface antibody)
(If titer negative, ENTIRE series must be completed per CDC guidelines or waiver
signed)
Series Dates: 1__________ 2__________ 3__________
AFPAP Program Manual Page 33
_____ Signed waiver form (Copy attached)
_____ Hepatitis C Antibody
_____URINE DRUG SCREEN
Health forms can be obtained through the web.
All health documentation must be submitted to:
Student Health Center
Saint Francis University
DiSepio Institute for Rural Health and Wellness
117 Evergreen Drive
Loretto PA 15940
Students are required to maintain their own health insurance throughout the program.
Graduation Requirements
In order for students to graduate from the Saint Francis University Armed Forces Physician
Assistant program with a Master of Physician Assistant science degree the following degree
requirements must be met:
Complete all coursework within the program paradigm
Have a minimum 2.0 QPA on a 4.0 scale
Pass each physician assistant course with a "C" or better, including the Masters Capstone
Pass the Summative evaluation or remediation with an 80% or better
The University registrar will confirm the students meeting graduation requirements and issue the
diploma.
The University confers degrees in August, December and May of each year. The official
graduation ceremonies are held in May. Students within the Armed Forces Physician Assistant
Program will receive their degree in August and will be extended the opportunity to walk during
the next official May graduation ceremony. Information will be provided by the department for
students choosing to attend the ceremony.
Student Resources
Academic Center for Enrichment Denise Kovach, Director
(814)472-3176
Blackboard CE support Theresa Wilson. Instructional Technology Specialist
(814) 472-2799
Business office Maddy Grecek, Office Assistant
AFPAP Program Manual Page 34
(814) 472-3006
Campus Ministry Denise Farabaugh, Office Assistant
(814) 472-3172
Career Services Beth McGregor, Office Assistant
(814) 472-3019
Counseling Center Mr. David Wilson, Director
(814) 472-3211
Financial aid office Mary Shingle, Office Assistant
(814) 472-3010
Library Main Circulation desk
(814) 472-3160
Military Affairs office Laura (Yingling) Papcunik, Financial aide
representative
(814) 472-3077
Office of the Provost Melita O’Donnell, Office Assistant
(814) 472-3004
Presidents Office Vicki Soyka, Office Assistant
(814) 472-3001
Registrar Linda L. Kline, Office Assistant
(814) 472-3009
School of Health Sciences Patricia Fitzgerald, Interim Dean
(814) 472-3121
Technology Support CERMUSA helpdesk # 1-800-476-0382 option 1
Additional Resources: Twitter:
https://twitter.com/sfubb
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=78246348247
Screencast:
http://www.screencast.com/users/bbsupport
Help/Test page
http://paonline.cermusa.francis.edu/idctest/
