1. Program Philosophy, Mission, and Goals
Program Philosophy
The Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies program at the MGH Institute of Health Professions will immerse students in the study of medicine through an integrated curriculum that prepares graduates for collaborative practice across a variety of healthcare settings. The program is based on a philosophy that values professionalism, respect for all individuals, and the provision of excellent team-based, patient-centered care. We believe that physician assistants (PAs) serve an important role in meeting the healthcare needs of patients and society, working with medical professionals in a variety of healthcare settings as clinicians, educators, administrators, scholars, advocates and consultants. Professional education should be a dynamic process, preparing graduates to be competent, broadly-skilled, reflective practitioners in primary care and other healthcare settings. As medicine continues to evolve at an increasingly rapid pace, it is imperative that our students develop the ability to identify what they don’t know and need to know, to find reliable, evidence-based answers, and to apply these skills to competent and compassionate patient care. Through a curriculum designed to meet the needs of the adult learner in both the didactic and clinical phases of the program, we will foster intellectual challenge and inquiry in an atmosphere of academic and clinical scholarship within which students and faculty share responsibility for lifelong learning.
Program Mission
The mission of the Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program (MPAS) at the MGH Institute of Health Professions is to prepare compassionate and highly competent PAs to provide leadership in serving diverse communities to foster a commitment to excellence and advocacy, and contribute to evidence-based, interprofessional practice.
Program Goals
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Recruit highly qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds who have a passion for the PA profession.
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Establish outreach to health care workers and veterans seeking a pathway to the PA profession.
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Foster evidence-based, interprofessional practice among students and faculty in the classroom and clinical settings.
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Graduate PA employees of choice who are leaders in their practice and the profession.
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Support faculty and practicing PA professional development through graduate study, national programs and Institute-sponsored workshops.
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Promote the value of the PA role in healthcare settings in and around the Boston metropolitan area.