STRENGTHENING the role of pas in louisiana

what is a pa?

A PA is a licensed professional who provides medical care as part of a patient-centered health care team. PAs work in a wide variety of medical and surgical disciplines in various practice settings. PAs are involved in all aspects of care, including taking medical histories, performing physical exams, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, prescribing medications, performing procedures such as suturing and casting, assisting in the OR, and providing education to patients and their families.

find a pa program

ARC-PA accredited programs in the state of Louisiana.

LAPA PRE-PA STUDENT MEMBERSHIP

Thinking about becoming a PA and want to get connected with LAPA? The LAPA Pre-PA Student membership is perfect for those who are not enrolled in a PA program yet, but are interested in pursuing a career in the PA profession. Benefits of becoming a LAPA Pre-PA student member include:

• Access to members-only PA education content
  
• Networking with PAs and PA Students in Louisiana who have been through the process.
  

Pre-PA Student Member Application - $35 per year
Pre-PA Student members are not enrolled in a PA program but are interested in pursuing a career in the physician assistant profession. Pre-PA Student members may not vote on matters pertaining to LAPA, AAPA or the AAPA House of Delegates (HOD). Membership duration is on an annual basis. Memberships can be renewed.

gain experience

Here is a short-list of recommended options you can try to gain some experience/exposure to the PA profession:

• Try the volunteer office of large hospitals. Volunteering may provide you access to shadowing opportunities at the hospital. 
• Contact private offices to inquire about shadowing opportunities.  
• Take a job in healthcare - Positions as a scribe, phlebotomist, nurse's aide, EMT, medical assistant, etc. would help to see what a PA does and qualify as healthcare experience hours.