Program Mission and Goals

UTHSC Statement of Aspirations

We are dedicated to expanding access to educational opportunities, striving to remove barriers, and making academic pursuits more affordable. Consistent with the University's commitment to high academic standards, student achievement, and the preparation of responsible citizens, we believe that engaging with individuals from all backgrounds and perspectives fosters a vibrant learning environment that enhances critical thinking and intellectual growth. Our collective strengths make us stronger, and we are committed to promoting an atmosphere where all members of the University community feel welcome, can thrive, and achieve success.

Mission Statement

The mission of the UTHSC Physician Assistant Program is to prepare highly skilled physician assistants who: 

1. Are dedicated to improving access to health care,
2. Provide high quality primary and/or specialty care as part of interprofessional teams, 
3. Are knowledgeable about all factors that can affect a patient’s health and well-being,
4. Are committed to lifelong learning and service to their community

Program Goals

1. Recruit, matriculate, and retain highly qualified students who complete the Master of Medical Science degree within the College of Medicine at UTHSC.
   
   1. 1. Admission variables
         1. Average Matriculated Student
            
            1. Benchmark - ≥ 3.0 GPA
            2. Cumulative Overall GPA – 3.62
            3. Cumulative Science GPA – 3.53
            4. Last 60 hours GPA – 3.71
            5. Patient Contact Hours - 3852
         2. Attrition rate
            1. Benchmark - < 10% attrition
            2. 5yr average – 4%
            3. ARC-PA Student Attrition Table
         3. Graduation rate
            1. Benchmark - > 90% graduation rate
            2. 5yr average – 96%
   2. Educate and prepare future certified physician assistants with requisite medical knowledge, clinical skills, and technical skills for entry-level practice.
      
      1. PAEA End of Curriculum data
         1. Benchmark - > 1400 composite score and > 1400 in all content and task categories
         2. 5yr average - 1498
      2. PANCE data
         1. Benchmark - > 90% 1^st time pass rate
         2. NCCPA 5yr Summary Report
   3. Foster awareness and sensitivity for the holistic needs of all patients, including social, legal, and ethical issues that affect patient care. 
      
      1. Participation in S&W clinic
      2. Outreach activities
         1. Benchmark - at least 2 throughout the didactic year
   4. Develop and support faculty members to model professionalism, service, and leadership.
      1. Benchmark - ≥ 4.0 on Student, Faculty, and Preceptor surveys

Faculty Totals

Service Roles	Presentations	Publications	Awards and Accolades
University: 57		Articles: 14	University: 10
Regional: 16	Regional: 33	Book Chapters: 27	State: 4
National: 19	National: 18	Online Media: 19	National: 12