South University Physician Assistant Program Earns Decade-Long Accreditation Recognition

South University PA Program Achieves 10-Year Accreditation

South University (SU) proudly announces that its Physician Assistant (PA) program in West Palm Beach has earned continued accreditation status for a decade from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). This significant achievement reflects the program's dedication to quality education and adherence to professional standards.

The Accreditation Process

The ARC-PA's decision comes after a thorough evaluation process, which involved a comprehensive review of the program application, site visit team report, and responses to noted observations. This rigorous assessment ensures that SU's PA program meets the stringent standards set forth by the accreditation body, emphasizing both compliance and academic excellence.

Commitment to Quality Healthcare

Since its inception in January 2020, the PA program has contributed significantly to enhancing healthcare access in South Florida. Led by Dr. Kristen Smethurst, the Physician Assistant Department Chair, and supported by Lysa Diggins, the Program Director, along with Dr. Ilaria Gadalla, Dean of the College of Health Professions, this program has successfully trained a multitude of healthcare professionals ready to meet the demands of the industry.

Dr. Gadalla has been instrumental in steering the program through three successful site visits as part of the accreditation process, collaborating closely with Dr. Smethurst to maintain the highest levels of educational quality.

Dr. Smethurst remarked, "Achieving accreditation-continued status signifies not only our compliance with educational standards but also our impact on the community we serve, particularly in advancing quality healthcare delivery through the training of compassionate and skilled physician assistants."

A Comprehensive Curriculum

The PA program enrolls cohorts of 50 students every January, immersing them in a rigorous 27-month curriculum designed to prepare them for the complexities of modern medicine. Students engage in a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experiences, partnering with renowned healthcare institutions such as Jupiter Medical Center, Baptist Health South Florida, and the Palm Beach Health Network Hospitals. This exposure allows students to gain real-world experience and apply their knowledge in various healthcare settings, including prestigious facilities like the Cleveland Clinic.

Recognizing Educational Excellence

The program is not only focused on clinical training but has also celebrated notable achievements. Among its students are recipients of the National Health Service Corps Scholarship and participants in prestigious fellowships, reflecting the quality of education provided. Students have actively participated in state legislative committees and competitions, such as the recent FAPA Challenge Bowl, where they secured second place.

Additionally, the program is committed to promoting diversity in healthcare leadership through initiatives with organizations like the NAHSE Florida Chapter, co-hosting events aimed at fostering clinical leadership among underrepresented groups.

Looking Ahead

The next review by the ARC-PA is scheduled for July 2035, contingent upon the program's continuous adherence to accreditation standards. This long-term recognition is a testament to the program's sustained operational excellence and commitment to high standards in healthcare education.

Overall, South University stands as an educational beacon, offering more than 10,000 students across its 11 campuses in the Southeastern United States the opportunity to pursue various healthcare-related degrees. With a comprehensive approach to nursing, pharmacy, and allied health professions, South University continues to address the pressing workforce needs in healthcare.

For more information about South University and its programs, please visit their official website.