Practical phase PA

☝️ The most important information in brief

• The practical phases serve to deepen the theory of the training in practical application.
• Tasks during the practical phase include working with patients, documentation, and much more.
• The practical phase lasts at least seven weeks and is usually divided into different areas.
• Students are supervised by a physician throughout the entire practical phase.

Before you start dreaming about your next patient visit, you need to meet a few basic requirements for participating in the practical phase. Although some universities have specific requirements, the general conditions are similar. You may need to complete certain course modules, so check with your university for more information.

Your theoretical knowledge must be advanced enough that you have mastered the basic medical subjects. These include anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, and pharmacology.

During the practical phase, you will have the opportunity to gain insights into your future working environment. The areas of application are diverse, from intensive care units to operating rooms, students have access to the full range of clinics. The supervising physicians decide where you fit in best and how your practical phase will be structured. Of course, your existing knowledge will also be taken into account, as you are already actively helping to care for patients.

Not only hospitals, but also health centers, research institutions (not at all universities), and specialist clinics such as psychiatric clinics and polyclinics are possible locations for your placements.

The duration of the practical phase depends, among other things, on whether you are studying full-time and which university of applied sciences you are enrolled at. The minimum duration is seven weeks, divided into several areas. Here is an example of what your schedule might look like:

• In the first semester, you decide to study internal medicine.
• In the second semester, you work in functional diagnostics.
• In the third semester, you complete the practical phase in surgery.
• In the fourth semester, you work in radiology.
• In the fifth semester, you will learn about neurosurgery.
• In the sixth and final semester, you decide to study psychiatry.

As a PA, you are not allowed to do everything that a trained doctor can do, but your range of tasks is still varied. You mainly support your direct supervisor, a doctor with authority to give instructions. In practice, you will assist with patient care and carry out individual steps independently. This includes drawing up treatment plans, caring for your patients under medical supervision, and communicating with relatives.

As part of the diagnostic process, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the evaluation of examinations. You will often be allowed to make a diagnosis yourself, which will then be reviewed by a physician.

Throughout your practical training, you will work in an interdisciplinary manner with other disciplines. You will get to know nursing staff, therapists, doctors, and all aspects of the medical profession.

You are free to choose where you would like to complete your practical training. Just because you live in Baden-Württemberg, for example, does not mean that you have to complete the practical part of your studies in the same state. As a student, you even have the option of completing your practical training abroad. This gives you the advantage of gaining international experience while learning more about the culture of other countries.

You have failed to overcome the hurdles so far and are afraid that practical phases abroad will not be recognized. At travel4med, we have made it our mission to pave the way for students to achieve their dreams. We take care of all aspects of your practical phase abroad—from finding accommodation to providing direct support on site.

Once you have successfully completed your practical training, your studies are coming to an end. You have already learned the theory in advance and have now reinforced your knowledge through practical tasks. What happens next depends on the type of training you are doing and the university you are attending. In most cases, the practical phase is followed by a final exam.

Depending on the university, you may be required to submit a capstone project or write a thesis. In order to work as a physician assistant, you may also have to take a final certification exam. Only after you have received state certification are you officially allowed to work in your newly learned profession after completing your studies.

Tip: If you like a clinic during the practical phase, find out about possible positions after graduation. Completing the practical phases abroad has several advantages from the perspective of potential employers. You are culturally savvy and have shown that you have the courage necessary for your job.