1. technology and computing
2. computer certification

STUDENT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES MANUAL
College of Health Professions
Department of Health Professions
2014- 2015
DIVISION OF PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN
PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES
(MSPAS)
Revised 9/4/2014
TABLE OF CONTENT
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................. 4
DIVISION OF PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES, Vision Mission, Values,
Program Goals ................................................................................................................... 5
Student Learning Outcomes .......................................................................................... 6
FACULTY & Staff Directory .................................................................................................. 7
OFFICE PROCEDURES ........................................................................................................ 8
CURRICULUM ................................................................................................................... 9
DIVISION OF PA STUDIES ACADEMIC POLICIES ......................................................... 10
EVALUATION AND GRADING: EVALUATION OF STUDENT LEARNING ...... 11
PAS PROGRAM EXAM POLICY .................................................................................. 12
Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) & Clinical Stations
Examination ..................................................................................................................... 14
ACADEMIC DISHONESTY AND THE HONOR CODE ........................................... 15
Academic and Professionalism Progress Committee (APPC): MUSC MPAS
Program ............................................................................................................................ 16
ATTENDANCE POLICY ................................................................................................. 19
DRESS CODE ................................................................................................................... 19
CENTER FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE (CAE) ............................................................. 21
COUNSELING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES (CAPS) ................................. 21
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................... 21
STUDENT EMPLOYMENT ............................................................................................ 22
TITLE, IDENTIFICATION/REPRESENTATION...................................................... 22
PATIENT’S RIGHTS AND CONFIDENTIALITY OF MEDICAL RECORDS AND
HEALTH HISTORY INFORMATION.......................................................................... 22
STUDENT-FACULTY RESEARCH TEAMS ............................................................... 23
CLINICAL SITE REQUESTS ......................................................................................... 23
PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE ............................................................... 24
TECHNICAL STANDARDS/DISABILITY .................................................................. 24
MINIMUM SKILLS FOR ELIGIBILITY TO PARTICIPATE IN EDUCATIONAL
PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES .................................................................................... 25
CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION REQUIREMENT ................................ 26
PROTOCOLS FOR STUDENT EXPOSURE TO INFECTIOUS AGENTS .............. 26
PROGRAM EVALUATION ............................................................................................ 27
CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION ..............................................................................28
LICENSURE...................................................................................................................... 28
REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL LABS ............................................................................................ 29
HONORS AND AWARDS ..............................................................................................30
OUTSTANDING STUDENT AWARD CRITERIA FOR SELECTION ....................30
STUDENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ............................................................................ 31
3
INTRODUCTION
Dear Student,
Welcome to the MUSC Division of Physician Assistant Studies (PAS) academic program.
The faculty and I are proud you chose to pursue your goal of becoming a physician
assistant here at MUSC. It is a privilege for me, on behalf of your dedicated faculty and
staff, to welcome you to an exciting 27 month training experience.
This Student Policies and Procedures Manual is your primary resource for policies and
procedures related to your educational experience in the Master of Science in Physician
Assistant Studies curriculum. Please refer to this document, in addition to the Clinical
Year Handbook, the College of Health Professions Student Policy Manual, and the
University Bulletin which are available online.
 CHP Student Policies and Procedures Manual:
o Policy and Procedures
 MUSC Bulletin:
o http://www.musc.edu/bulletin
Please make sure you understand all components of this manual, the CHP Student
Policy Manual, and the MUSC Bulletin before you begin your classes. You should
refer to these manuals when you have questions about the expectations within the
college or the program. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk with your
academic advisor. An academic advisor will be assigned to each student prior to
the start of classes. The program sets high standards in order to ensure patients
receive quality care from our graduates. You were chosen for this program because
the faculty and I know that you have the potential to excel in this program and
positively impact the lives of the patients you encounter.
The faculty congratulates you on your acceptance into this academically rigorous
program. We hope you will find your years at the Medical University of South Carolina
full of great experiences, fun, learning and personal growth. Remember to be flexible, to
seek opportunities to collaborate with your classmates and faculty, and to conduct
yourself with the highest level of professionalism at all times.
Sincerely,
Gilbert Boissonneault, PhD, PA-C
Professor and Program Director
Division of Physician Assistant Studies
4
DIVISION OF PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT
STUDIES
Our Vision
To enhance access to high quality health care throughout South Carolina and
beyond.
Our
Mission
To educate highly competent physician assistants who are compassionate, culturally
aware, and attuned to the primary health care needs of the people of SC and
beyond.
They will:
 Provide quality, state-of-the-art, patient-centered health care as
integral members of physician-led health care teams
 Contribute to the development of new knowledge to improve physician
assistant education and health care
 Advocate for the physician assistant profession; and help meet the
health needs of the larger community through education and service.
Our
Values







Ethical and professional behavior
Advancing medical knowledge
Diversity and inclusion
Virtuous leadership
Confident life-long learners
Quality, safe, and accessible patient-centered healthcare
Responding compassionately and respectfully to the needs of the
population served
Program Goals
The Physician Assistant Studies program assesses its success by the success of its
students and alumni. In order to ensure its success, the program strives to:
 Be fully compliant with all standards established by the Accreditation Review
Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA);
 To enroll applicants of high quality who reflect the richness of South
Carolina’s and the nation’s population;
 To educate physician assistants with the knowledge and skills to provide
quality health care;
 To graduate students who are highly satisfied with the quality of their
education, the state of their professional development, and their overall
capability to function as a physician assistant; and
 To engage our alumni in strengthening the profession by supporting the
education of the next generation of physician assistants.
5
Student Learning Outcomes
At the completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
 Elicit a detailed and accurate medical history, perform a complete physical
examination, and appropriately record all pertinent data
 Perform and interpret routine diagnostic studies
 Perform or refer appropriately for therapeutic procedures
 Provide appropriate patient education and counseling to address health
maintenance and disease prevention
 Provide complete and accurate patient assessment in order to formulate an
appropriate management plan in a variety of healthcare settings
 Facilitate the appropriate referral of patients to address their medical and
social welfare needs
In keeping with the vision, mission, goals and objectives of the Division, students
are expected to obtain basic core competencies recognized as fundamental to
successful practice as a physician assistant. Educational activities centered on these
core competencies are integrated throughout the program's didactic and clinical
education curriculum.
These competencies, encompassing medical knowledge, interpersonal and
communication skills, supervised patient care, professionalism, practice-based
learning and improvement, and systems-based practice, are described in the
following document: Competencies for the Physician Assistant Profession
published on the National Commission of Certification of the Physician Assistants
(NCCPA).
6
FACULTY
Gilbert Boissonneault, PhD, PA-C
Professor, Program Director
792-3648
[email protected]
Clint Blankenship, PharmD, PA-C
Assistant Professor,
Academic Coordinator
792-7490
[email protected]
Kelly Taylor, MHS, PA-C
Admissions Coordinator
792-4490
[email protected]
Christine T. Otruba, DO, FAAP
Assistant Professor, Medical Director
792-9570
[email protected]
Lesli Woodall, MSPAS, PA-C
Instructor
Clinical Coordinator for Evaluation &
Testing
792-6490
[email protected]
David W. Howell, MBA
Instructor
Clinical Coordinator for Operations
792-6721
[email protected]
Paul F. Jacques, DHSc, EdM, PA-C
Associate Professor
792-2649
[email protected]
Mary L. Hewett, MS, PA-C
Assistant Professor
792-8885
[email protected]
Carrie Smith
Academic Fellow
792-8630
[email protected]
STAFF
David Evatt
Student Services Coordinator
792-3775
[email protected]
Meaghan Poyer
HRSA Grant Program Coordinator
792-9471
[email protected]
Shenikqua Simmons
Administrative Assistant, PAS Division
792-1913
[email protected]
Chad Higgins
Manager, Clinical Education
792-9023
[email protected]
Kimberly Rang
Clinical Education Team
792-3789
[email protected]
Lauren Funke
Compliance Administrator, Clinical
Education 792-7473
[email protected]
7
OFFICE PROCEDURES
Office Hours: Regular business hours are 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM Monday-Friday.
Books, Equipment and Supplies on Loan: Any material the student wants to take
out of the department must be signed out by the office staff or faculty member.
Computer: Students are required to have a laptop computer. Please refer to
information regarding this requirement at
http://www.musc.edu/chp/it/laptopreq.htm. Students who require materials
photocopied should utilize the copier in the Health Professions Student Life Office
(first floor of the A Building).
Appointments with Faculty: These may be made with the faculty member directly.
Student Mailboxes: These are used to disseminate pertinent information and
should be checked regularly. Student mailboxes are located on the second floor of
CHP Building B.
Bulletin Boards: These areas are to be utilized for the sharing of information,
notification of pertinent class information and/or to promulgate public relations.
Classrooms and Laboratories: These rooms should be kept neat, clean, and free
from debris and personal articles. Food and beverages are not allowed in the
majority of classrooms and labs. Materials and equipment must be returned to
their original places; safety precautions must be adhered to; and equipment in
need of repair must be reported immediately.
Inclement Weather: Formal cancellation of MUSC classes is made by the
President’s Office and is announced on the radio and television. Updated
information is made available via the university’s public information telephone
system, available at 792-MUSC (6872).
8
CURRICULUM
Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS)
Summer Semester
PA 606
Human Anatomy
PA 607
Introduction to the PA Profession
PA 643
Human Physiology & Basic Pathophysiologic Concepts
PA 630
Bioethics and Behavioral Medicine
PA 632
Principles of Pharmacology
Fall Semester
PA 614
PA 617
PA 627
PA 640
PA 662
PA 695
PA 624
Fundamentals of Clinical Medicine I
Clinical Problem Solving I
Physical Diagnosis and Clinical Application I
Community Health and Preventive Medicine
Pathophysiology I
Research Methods for Health Professionals
Pharmacotherapeutics I
Spring Semester
PA 615
Fundamentals of Clinical Medicine II
IP 710
Transforming Healthcare for the Future
PA 618
Clinical Problem Solving II
PA 628
Physical Diagnosis and Clinical Application II
PA 625
Pharmacotherapeutics II
PA 646
Pediatrics I
PA 663
Pathophysiology II
PA 690
Graduate Project I
Summer Semester
PA 616
Fundamentals of Clinical Medicine III
PA 619
Clinical Problem Solving III
PA 626
Pharmacotherapeutics III
PA 650
Emergency Medicine and Surgical Care
PA 651
Geriatrics
PA 691
Graduate Project II
PA 648
Pediatrics II
Clinical Year
PA 635
PA 692
PA 670
PA 672
PA 674
PA 676
PA 678
PA 679
PA 680
PA 682
PA 685
Rural Interprofessional Student Experience (RISE)
Graduate Project III
Clinical Clerkship I
Clinical Clerkship II
Clinical Clerkship III
Clinical Clerkship IV
Clinical Clerkship V
Clinical Clerkship VI
Clinical Clerkship VII
Clinical Clerkship VIII
Clinical Clerkship Elective
Total Curriculum Credits
9
Credits
6
1
2
1
1
11
4
1
4
2
2
3
2
18
4
2
1
4
2
3
2
1
19
3
1
2
4
1
1
1
13
2
1
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
48
109
DIVISION OF PA STUDIES ACADEMIC POLICIES
COURSE EXEMPTION POLICY
The following procedure must be followed by any student wishing to request an
exemption from a course in the PAS curriculum based on course work completed
prior to admittance to the program.
Note: In order to request exemption from a course in the PAS program
curriculum, the student must submit the following at least 4 weeks prior to the
semester start date for the course:
1)
2)
3)
4)
Syllabus with lecture schedule and learning objectives the of previously
completed course which meets the learning objectives of the PAS program
course,
Transcript showing grade of “B” (course grade 3.0) or greater in the course,
and
Completed course exemption form, including signatures from
a. The course director
b. The student’s academic advisor
Submit the final documents to The Student Affairs Coordinator.
The Division Director is responsible for final approval of a course exemption
request. Upon approval, formal paperwork will be submitted to the Office of
Enrollment Management.
Note: This policy was edited on 10/8/2014 in order to better reflect the course exemption process.
10
EVALUATION AND GRADING:
EVALUATION OF STUDENT LEARNING
During the didactic phase of the curriculum, students are evaluated by written
exams, case presentations, graded lab work and practical exams, such as
objective structured clinical examinations (OSCE). Evaluations may also be based
on class participations and class presentations. It is the prerogative of the
instructor to select the specific method of evaluation that will be used. This
information will be provided to the student in the course syllabus. Course
syllabi are provided to and reviewed with students during the first week of a
course.
Students must successfully complete all the didactic coursework of the PAS
curriculum and other required experiences) before being assigned to the
clinical phase of the program. The MUSC grading scale which is employed in all
courses of the PAS curriculum is illustrated below.
Quality Points
% Equivalent
4.0
3.9
3.8
3.7
3.6
3.5
3.4
3.3
3.2
3.1
3.0
2.9
2.8
2.7
2.6
2.5
2.4
2.3
2.2
2.1
2.0
1.8
1.6
1.4
1.2
1.0
<0.0
95 and above
94
93
92
91
90
89
88
87
86
85
84
83
82
81
80
79
78
77
76
75
74
73
72
71
70
69 and below
11
PAS PROGRAM EXAM POLICY
Most courses within the PAS curriculum utilize computerized testing. The
program used to administer exams is SofTest by ExamSoft. Prior to your first
exams, you will be given instructions on how to purchase, install, and access your
exams.
Test Taking Procedure
 Students should respect each other and reduce distractions in the room as
much as possible
 All students are expected to be seated, quiet, and ready to log in at the
appointed exam start time
o Have all study materials packed away in preparation of exiting the
room upon exam completion (all study materials must be removed
from desk)
 No hats/hoodies will be worn during the exam
 No food (unless medically necessary) will be on the table or eaten during the
exam; all candy should be unwrapped prior to start of the exam
 Students are allowed one drink in an enclosed container on the table
 Bring as little into the exam room as possible; personal items other than those
listed here will be kept under your table during the exam
 Earplugs for noise reduction may be used
o No headphones/earbuds will be allowed unless specifically required for
the exam
 Once the password has been distributed, there will be no talking
 Anyone wanting permission to leave the exam room will request this from the
proctor
o Only one person can leave the exam room at a time for restroom access
 Proctors will not answer any question pertaining to exam material during the
exam
 One blank piece of paper may be used as scratch paper
o Students should put their name on the scratch paper
o Any comments or concerns regarding specific test items/questions
should be listed out on the scratch paper so the course/module director
can review for consideration after all students have completed the
exam
o All scratch paper will be left in a designated box for the proctor to
collect
 Should your computer freeze during the upload of answers, notify the proctor
and then perform a hard reboot of your system
 Once finished with the exam, each student should quietly collect their
belongings and exit the exam room in a manner to prevent distractions
 Students will refrain from collecting in areas in close proximity to the testing
room as the noise is distracting to those still taking the test
 The proctor will post a time that students may return to the room
 Exam results will not be discussed until all students have taken the exam
12
Statement of Time Standard
 The NCCPA has established a standard time of one minute per multiple
choice (MC) item on the PANCE
 In our effort to help you prepare to perform within this time constraint, the
faculty of PAS believe that it is important to not only develop clinical skills,
but also test-taking skills and have adopted this as our standard
 The amount of time per multiple choice test item will decrease with each
semester to help “train” you to perform under these constraints
o Semester 1: 90 seconds per item
o Semester 2: 90 seconds per item
o Semester 3: 75 seconds per item
o Semester 4: 75 seconds per item
o Clinical year: 60 seconds per item
Be aware that course directors may give more time at their discretion
13
Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) &
Clinical Stations Examination
OSCE
The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is used to evaluate a
student’s communication skills, clinical knowledge base, and clinical skills. An
OSCE is a mock clinical scenario, where the student interacts with a standardized
patient. Within a specified amount of time, the student is expected to: 1. Establish
rapport with the patient 2. Obtain the patient’s history 3. Perform an appropriate
physical exam 4. Document an assessment and management plan. The
standardized patient is an actor/actress who is given a detailed script to perform
for the scenario with the student. An 80% overall performance rating is required to
pass an OSCE.
Clinical Stations Examination
Toward the end of the clinical year, each student will take a Clinical Stations
Examination to evaluate their medical and clinical knowledge. The Clinical Stations
Exam is delivered as a multiple choice question exam. It is comprised of various
questions associated with common clinical scenarios. Pictures of clinical findings, Xrays, EKGs, and lab results may be included. Students will be expected to provide
differential diagnoses, order or interpret appropriate lab/diagnostic tests, and devise
an assessment and management plan. This exam will be timed and administered via
ExamSoft electronic testing software.
14
ACADEMIC DISHONESTY AND THE HONOR CODE
The Division of Physician Assistant Studies expects its students to demonstrate
honesty, integrity and professionalism in all aspects of student life. We
acknowledge that our students are ambassadors for the university and the PA
profession, and a commitment to these three principles of conduct is necessary to
foster a positive image of the university and profession within our communities.
The Program faculty monitor students for professional development and conduct
(see page 18). Any student who does not comply with these program standards of
professional conduct is subject to dismissal from the program.
The division enforces the MUSC Honor Code, which is described in detail at:
www.musc.edu/honorcode. All students are expected to review and comply with
this code of conduct.
The division also endorses the Physician Assistant Oath, which was created by
the Student Academy of the American Academy of Physician Assistants. All
students are expected to uphold the precepts in the PA Oath:











I will hold as my primary responsibility the health, safety, welfare and
dignity of all human beings.
I will uphold the tenets of patient autonomy, beneficence, non-malfeasance
and justice.
I will recognize and promote the value of diversity.
I will treat equally all persons who seek my care.
I will hold in confidence the information shared in the course of
practicing medicine.
I will assess my personal capabilities and limitations, striving always to
improve my medical practice.
I will actively seek to expand my knowledge and skills, keeping
abreast of advances in medicine.
I will work with other members of the health care team to provide
compassionate and effective care of patients.
I will use my knowledge and experience to contribute to an improved
community.
I will respect my professional relationship with the physician.
I will share and expand knowledge within the profession.
15
Academic and Professionalism Progress Committee
(APPC): MUSC MPAS Program
Introduction to MUSC MPAS Program Policies:
Students enrolled in the PAS program are required to comply with all policies set
forth by the Medical University of South Carolina, College of Health Professions,
and the PAS Program. Copies of the University and College policies are available
online via the website for the Office of Enrollment Services. The following link will
direct you to the bulletin: www.musc.edu/bulletin
The PAS Program reserves the right to impose more stringent requirements
beyond the minimal provisions for the College of Health Professions as a whole.
Students who fail to meet regulations pertaining to academic standing will be
placed on academic probation or dismissed. Furthermore, students are subject to
the policies regarding progression within their respective program to regain or
retain student status.
APPC Structure:
1.
The APPC is composed of a Physician Assistant Studies (PAS) program
faculty chairperson and appointed PAS core faculty.
APPC Function:
1.
The APPC serves to monitor academic and professional performance
throughout a student’s enrollment in the MUSC PAS program.
2.
At the end of each semester, and as necessary, the APPC will review the
academic record of each PAS student.
3.
Should a student issue arise concerning a deviation from an acceptable
academic and or professional policy, the APPC is tasked with conducting a
thorough review.
APPC Procedures and Actions
 Any deviation from the MUSC, College of Health Professions, or PAS
Program academic and or professional standards will automatically lead to
a review by the APPC.
 The student will be invited, via email (receipt required), to appear before
the APPC to discuss their professional behavior and/or academic standing.
 The student will have the option of accepting or declining the APPC’s
invitation and must respond in writing (via email to the APPC) within 3
calendar days of receipt of the invitation.
 After meeting with the student (or should the student decline to meet with
the APPC), the APPC will determine if further action is necessary. The
APPC will present their recommended action(s) (see below), if deemed
necessary, in writing, to the PAS Division Director within 3 business days.
Possible Recommended Actions:
o Dismissal from the program
o Deceleration from the program
o Academic and or professional probation
o Probationary leave
o Medical leave
16
o
o
o
o
o



Remediation*1
Referral to CAPS and or CAE
A formal written warning by the APPC
Removal from academic probation
Other: as determined by the APPC members and or Division
Director
The Division Director will then review the recommended action(s) from the
APPC, and their final decision will be conveyed to the student in writing.
The student may request, within 7 calendar days of receipt of this letter, a
meeting with the PAS Division Director.
Any student may appeal the final decision of the program in writing to the
Dean within 10 calendar days of the program decision. See
http://www.musc.edu/bulletin/acad_policies/acad_review.html.
Academic Guidelines - Didactic Year
 A course grade of less than 2.o is defined as a course failure.
 Failure of a course will result in deceleration. The course must be repeated
at MUSC within the following year.
 Failure to earn a 3.o or higher in the repeated course will warrant dismissal
 Upon satisfactory completion of repeated coursework and attainment of the
required GPA, the student will be reinstated to the established curriculum in
good academic standing at the point of interruption or the equivalent.
 A student who passes all courses and maintains both an academic semester
and cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above is considered to be in good academic
standing.
 A student not currently on academic probation whose GPA is below 3.0 in
any academic semester or whose cumulative GPA falls below 3.0
respectively, will be placed on academic probation. The student will remain
on academic probation until the academic semester and cumulative GPAs
are elevated to 3.0 or higher.
 Students who achieve the stipulated GPA requirements will be reinstated in
good academic standing.
 A student may be dismissed if they remain on academic probation for two
consecutive semesters.
 Students failing more than one course in the PAS Program will be dismissed.
1
9/4/14-Individual remediation plans will be constructed by core faculty according to the
individual student’s needs.
17
Academic Guidelines- Clinical Year
Clinical Year Progression Guidelines:

Progression into the clinical year is contingent upon the student achieving a
cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater at the conclusion of the didactic year.
Students who do not meet this condition will undergo review by the APPC to
establish a plan for remediation prior to entry into the clinical year.

Bullets 2 through 6 under the Academic Guidelines –Didactic Year also apply
to the clinical year
Academic Guidelines

Good academic standing in the clinical year requires that all clerkship grades
be 3.0 or higher

A course grade of less than 3.0 during the clinical year constitutes failure.
Professional Guidelines (Didactic and Clinical Years)
A student placed on professional probation at any time while a student in the MUSC
MSPAS program will remain on professional probation throughout their enrollment
in the program.
Professional Conduct Standards
Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the
standards of an institution of higher education and are required to abide by the
highest codes of academic honesty, ethical fitness and professional conduct.
Students are expected to abide by The Code of Professional Conduct, which is found
in the Bulletin of the Medical University of South Carolina, available online:
http://www.musc.edu/bulletin
As students of the PA profession, PAS students are expected to behave according to
professional expectations outlined by the American Academy of Physician Assistants
in the Guidelines for Ethical Conduct for the Physician Assistant Profession
(http://www.aapa.org/your_pa_career/becoming_a_pa/resources/item.aspx?id=15
18), the Code of Conduct for Certified and Certifying PAs from the National
Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants
(http://www.nccpa.net/CodeOfConductLEP), and the Physician Assistant
Professional Oath (http://www.aapa.org/uploadedFiles/PA Oath.pdf)
18
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Attendance policy requirements are formulated by each course director and will
be included in individual course syllabi.
Specific attendance requirements during supervised clinical training (i.e., clerkships)
are provided in the Clinical Year Student Manual.
DRESS CODE
Students must remember that MUSC is a professional institution, and as such, it
is expected that students display an appropriate level of judgment with regard to
personal hygiene, grooming and dress. Additional requirements may be imposed
in laboratory settings or patient care areas. Please avoid heavy fragrances,
perfumes or colognes which may be offensive to peers and precipitate or
aggravate unpleasant symptoms in patients encountered in patient care settings.
The official MUSC dress code can be accessed by the following link:
http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/chp/orientation/dress_code
FACULTY ADVISORS - STUDENT ADVISEMENT
Each student will be assigned to a faculty advisor upon entering the professional
program. The faculty advisor will be available to the student throughout the course
of the professional program. Students are expected to meet with their advisors each
semester during the didactic cycle and as needed during the clinical phase of
training.
Concerns regarding course work should be addressed as outlined in the Issue
Resolution Flow Chart on page 20.
19
Issue Resolution Flow Chart
Problems or Concerns
Arise
Yes
No
Involves a Course?
Discuss with Course
Instructor
No
Resolved
No Further Action Required
No Further Action Required
Resolved
Discuss with Advisor or
with Faculty Advisor
Discuss with Advisor
Resolved
No
No
Discuss with Division
Director
Resolved
No
Discuss with Division
Director
Resolved
No
Begin Formal grievance process as outline in the Student’s Policies and
Procedures Manual
20
CENTER FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE (CAE)
In support of MUSC's mission to provide resources which facilitate the acquisition of
knowledge, skills, and attributes specific to chosen professions, the Center for Academic
Excellence aims to cultivate knowledge and critical thinking through dialogue and
collaboration. The Center for Academic Excellence is dedicated to creating an
environment for learning and discovery which fosters personal growth and promotes
each person's uniqueness and independence. The Center for Academic Excellence
provides specialists and supplemental instructors to enhance your learning process and
ensure your academic success. In addition, individual consultants assist you in
discovering your own learning style and offer test-taking and study strategies for success
in all MUSC courses. Contact information and appointment requests can be made
online by visiting the center’s website: http://www.musc.edu/cae/
COUNSELING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES (CAPS)
Highly trained specialists in the area of clinical psychology are available to support your
academic and personal development while training at MUSC. Evaluation and treatment
is available to all students. Information regarding the services provided and contact
information for scheduling an appointment are available online by visiting the following
website: http://www.musc.edu/caps/. Confidentiality is fundamental to the services
provided to students.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Requirements for graduation are formulated by the College of Health Professions and
are strictly adhered to by the Department of Health Professions and the Division of
Physician Assistant Studies. Graduation requirements are found in the Bulletin of the
Medical University of South Carolina. They are repeated here for ready reference.
Master’s candidates for graduation from the PAS academic program in the College of
Health Professions must

have satisfied all requirements in the specified curriculum and be in good
academic standing;

be in good professional standing;

have been enrolled in the program for the time period specified by the
professional accrediting body, if applicable;

have successfully passed a summative evaluation as defined by the academic
program and the Clinical Year Handbook;

be recommended for graduation by the faculty of the specific program and the
general faculty;

have satisfied all financial obligations to MUSC; and participate in a financial aid
exit interview (if applicable).
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ADDITIONAL DIVISION OF PA STUDIES POLICIES
STUDENT EMPLOYMENT
Experience has shown that most students are unable to give an adequate effort to the
Program if they continue employment. We discourage students from seeking
employment while enrolled in the program. If employment is essential, then the PAS
Division Director should be informed in writing of the student’s work schedule. Class
meetings missed due to work schedules will be considered unexcused.
TITLE, IDENTIFICATION/REPRESENTATION
An official MUSC name badge with the name and photograph clearly visible must be
worn at all times on campus or during educational activities. Role and title confusion
are common problems encountered in dealing with patients, e.g., some patients
identify all those wearing short white coats as physicians. Students should be aware of
this problem and avoid misrepresentation by politely explaining their role and
position. In professional interactions with patients and others, a student must
introduce himself/herself as a “physician assistant student” using the title of Mr., Mrs.,
Ms., or Miss. Students must use the designation “Physician Assistant – Student”
following all notations in charts, records and other medical forms. The abbreviation
“PA-S” is less familiar and should be avoided to prevent confusion as to title. In all
professional communications, a student should introduce himself/herself as a
physician assistant student. No student should casually accept the title of “doctor”.
PATIENT’S RIGHTS AND CONFIDENTIALITY OF MEDICAL
RECORDS AND HEALTH HISTORY INFORMATION
All data gathered about a patient and his or her illness, including all items within a
patient's medical history, is privileged information.



Students must never discuss a patient's records in a manner or a situation that
would reveal any information about that patient or his or her records to persons
not involved in the patient's health care.
Charts or contents, e.g. lab reports, etc., are not to be removed from the hospital
or clinical setting. If photocopies of written documentation are to be submitted to
the program for evaluation, all specific references to the patient (e.g., name,
address, and identification number) must be deleted.
Reference, at any time, to a patient in a dehumanizing or insensitive manner is
not professional and will not be tolerated. The Division Director will review such
an infraction.
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STUDENT-FACULTY RESEARCH TEAMS
Minimal reimbursement is available to each group to offset the cost of the research.
Reimbursement requests must be pre-approved through the Division Director. The
Division is not required to fund student graduate project research. Graduate students
and faculty are encouraged to disseminate the findings from their research through
presentations at local, state, and national meetings or via publication or the MUSC
Student Research Day. The projects are considered as joint student-faculty effort. All
papers or presentations will include all members as authors.
CLINICAL YEAR REQUESTS
Students may make requests to the Clinical Coordinator for Operations for specific
clinical education sites that are not already developed (i.e., sites that do not have
an active contractual agreement with the PAS program). These requests are made
during the fall semester of the didactic phase of the program. The Clinical
Coordinator for Operations will announce the deadline for these requests. Requests
submitted after the deadline will not be accepted. The preceptor must be a physician,
physician assistant or nurse practitioner. Written requests do not automatically
guarantee approval that the site will be approved for the student. These are only
requests until the Clinical Coordinator for Operations confirms the clinical and
educational adequacy of the site.
International placements for rotations are a possibility, but prior approval must be
gained from the Clinical Coordinator for Operations. Students are permitted to complete
international rotations only after Clerkship III (i.e. Clerkship IV-IX). Further
information regarding international rotations will be announced at a later time.
During the clinical year, students are typically placed in areas where students indicate
they have permanent housing available, although there may be housing available
throughout the state at no cost to the student through the SC Area Heath Education
Consortium (AHEC). Housing is not provided for out of state sites, and students are
expected to make their own arrangements for housing for any placements out of state
during the clinical year.
Students are strongly encouraged to make an appointment to meet with the Clinical
Coordinator for Operations regarding any concerns during the clinical year of the
program. Appointments may be made by contacting the Clinical Coordinator for
Operations ([email protected]).
Further information regarding the clinical year will be included in the Clinical Year
Handbook, which will be provided to students during the Clinical Year Orientation.
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PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE
The student must be covered for malpractice related to their normal clinical curriculum,
and assignment 24 hours a day, working in or out of school. Professional liability or
malpractice insurance is provided by the Medical University of South Carolina.
Additional malpractice insurance is provided during the clinical year (please refer to the
Clinical Year Handbook for more details). Students may be required to purchase
supplemental policies in order to be granted permission to train in various clinical
sites during the clinical year. Please refer to the following link for more details on
student-malpractice insurance:
 MUSC Risk Management
MAJOR MEDICAL HEALTH INSURANCE
The student must also be covered by major medical health insurance for the entire
period he or she is enrolled in PAS curriculum course(s). Proof of insurance must be
provided to Student Health Services but also must be available to the PAS faculty and
staff if requested. Students will be automatically enrolled in the insurance plan provided
by the University and billed. To opt out of the insurance, the student must provide proof
of insurance EACH semester.
TECHNICAL STANDARDS/DISABILITY
The University and PAS Division both publish the minimum abilities needed by all
students. While admission decisions do not take disabilities into consideration, nor are
applicants invited to disclose a disability, all persons interested in entering a health
profession education program should be aware of minimum abilities required for
success. To review the MUSC minimum abilities visit the section on minimum abilities
for eligibility to participate successfully on the web site of the Office of Enrollment
Management available online:
http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/esl/em/admissions/future/abilities.htm
Upon admission, a student who discloses a disability (with certification) is assured of
reasonable accommodations. PAS students seeking accommodations should initiate
their request to the Disabilities Officer for the College of Health Professions located in
the Student Life Center. If a change in health status occurs which has potential to affect
a student’s ability to perform according to the technical standards, the student should
contact the Student Services Coordinator. If necessary, a faculty committee will be
appointed by the Program Director to assess the student’s ability to remain in the
Program.
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MINIMUM SKILLS FOR ELIGIBILITY TO PARTICIPATE IN
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES
PAS applicants, and students, either independently or with the help of compensatory
techniques and assistive devices, must possess the following skills:
Manual Dexterity:
 Wrists (both), Hands (both), Fingers (all), Arms (both), Grasping, Fingering,
Pinching, Pushing, Pulling, Holding, Twisting (rotating), Cutting.
Ability to measure:
 Body (height, weight, range, strength, etc.), Psychological status (general),
coordination, vital signs, the ability to use sterile technique and universal
precautions. The ability to communicate as part of a team, the ability to operate and
maintain equipment (e.g. ventilator, monitor, power tools, car)
Sensation:
 Palpation, Auscultation, and Percussion
Vision:
 Depth, Color, and Acuity (corrected to 20/40)
Physical Strength:
 To support another person, to position another person, to transfer to/ambulance
with walker, cane, crutches, bed, chair; Provide motion exercises, to stand for long
periods of time, to perform CPR/resuscitation
Laptop/Computer Requirements (from University standards)
 Ability to complete computer-based assignments, and use the computer for
searching, recording, storing, and retrieving information.
 Ability to complete assessment examinations via computer-based software.
Other:
 To be poised and self-confident, to be able to read, write, understand and
communicate proficiently and effectively in the English language, to be able to
remain calm during emergency situations, to be able to meet and deal with people
of differing backgrounds and behavioral patterns, to display and maintain mental
and emotional stability, to be free from any active diseases that are infectious and
may be spread by routine means such as; handshakes, skin contact, and breathing.
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CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION REQUIREMENT
It has been determined that the skills of Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac
Life Support (ACLS) are essential for PAS students to possess. This requirement is also a
stipulation of student credentialing at most of the clinical clerkship sites throughout the
state. All students must be certified prior to the clinical year and must maintain
certification throughout the clinical year.
PROTOCOLS FOR STUDENT EXPOSURE TO INFECTIOUS
AGENTS
An occupational exposure to blood-borne pathogens by students is a major concern to the
College of Health Professions (CHP). To appropriately address any student exposures
while in a clinical setting, CHP and MUSC has established protocols in accordance with
OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogen Standard and Center for Disease Control
recommendations. In the event of exposure to potentially infectious bodily fluid, all
students in a clinical setting located on or off campus should refer to the following MUSC
protocol:http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/studenthealth/pathogen.html.
In the event of an exposure while on an off campus clinical rotation:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Wash the site immediately with soap and water.
Immediately go to the nearest Emergency Facility, preferable a hospital
emergency department.
Report any exposure to your on-site supervisor/preceptor.
If the event occurs Monday-Friday 8:00 am-4:30 pm, MUSC’s Student Health
Services (843.792.3664) should then be notified an exposure has occurred. If the
event occurs after hours, contact the MUSC Medical Center Hospital Supervisor
by calling the operator at 843.792.2123.
Immediately complete the ACORD form (Worker’s Compensation
First Report of Injury form). The form is available
at https://www.carc.musc.edu/acord/. Fax the ACORD form with documentation
of the medical provider’s name, facility location and telephone number to the
Worker’s Compensation Office (843.792.3473).
Contact the Clinical Coordinator for Operations for further instructions
(843.792.6721).
If you receive a bill for treatment, contact 843.792.3664, AND notify the Clinical
Coordinator for Operations.
Complete instructions are available at:
http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/studenthealth/pathogen.html..
26
9.
Topics include the following:
Blood Borne Pathogen Exposure Protocol for MUSC Students (.pdf)
After Hours Procedures (All Students Except Dental)
MUSC Occupational Bloodborne Pathogen Protocol Off Campus Procedure
Packet (.pdf)
Online ACORD Form
10. As recommended by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), post
exposure chemoprophylaxis should be initiated.
11.
HIV titers are to be drawn on the student and patient at the time of exposure and
six weeks, twelve weeks, and six months after exposure.
12. All follow-up care is the responsibility of the student.
PROGRAM EVALUATION
To ensure the success of the program and the provision of the type of education the
program is committed to, the evaluation of both the process and the outcomes of the
academic program must be regularly and systematically conducted. The main outcome
is a graduate who will have achieved the academic program objectives.
Evaluation of Course Requirement
It is a requirement of the Medical University and the College of Health Professions that
each student complete an on-line evaluation of each course. Details are provided within
course syllabi.
27
CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION
The national certification examination is a computerized examination managed by the
National Commission for Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). Passing this
entry-level examination entitles the successful candidate to use the initials PA-C
(Physician Assistant, Certified).
National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants
12000 Findley Road Duluth, GA 30097
678-417-8100
www.nccpa.net
LICENSURE
Upon graduation, it is the student’s responsibility to determine the licensure laws for the
state in which they choose to practice. In South Carolina information about obtaining a
license can be received by writing to:
Street Address:
SC Board of Medical Examiners Attn: Physician
Assistant Licensing Board
Synergy Business Park
Kingstree Building
110 Centerview Drive. Suite 202
Columbia, SC 29210
Mailing Address:
PO Box 11289
Columbia, SC 29211-1289
Phone: (803) 896-4500
Fax: (803) 896-4515
www.llr.state.sc.us/pol/medical/
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MISCELLANEOUS COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY POLICIES
REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL LABS
USING MATS AND EQUIPMENT
 A maximum of three people are allowed on the exam tables at any one time.
 Unplug all electrical equipment after use (at the end of each class).
 Do not stand on the tables unless the activity is related to formal instruction.
 Do not get on the tables or mats with shoes on, people put their faces on the
surfaces and shoes can harm the vinyl.
 Do not place shoes on any vinyl mat surface at any time.
 Do not place sharp objects, book bags, drinks, stools or other foreign objects on
mat tables at any time.
 Do not put feet in chairs.
STRAIGHTENING LABS
 Tidy the lab room after each class.
 Put tables and chairs into neat, organized positions.
 Place all pillows, sheets, equipment back in the cupboards or storage room after
use regardless of whether you need them again that week.
 Use wastebaskets, trash bins, and recycling containers for water bottles, or other
debris; or, remove them from the room.
CARING FOR TECHNOLOGY
 Turn off the computers/technology at the end of each use—the LCD should be off;
the screen should be blank.
 Get instruction from your faculty member about how to use equipment; if you are
not sure, please ask.
 Report technology problems immediately; use the “hotline” number provided.
CLEANING LABS
 Wipe mats and tables at the end of each class with disinfectant.
FOOD AND DRINK
 Do not bring food into the labs
 Do not bring glass into the labs.
 Drinks in plastic or aluminum bottles/containers are allowed.
TAKING RESPONSIBILITY
 Caring for equipment and supplies in the labs is an individual and a shared
responsibility.
 Any student who does not share responsibility or demonstrate compliance with
these essential rules will risk losing professional development grades that
semester.
 Faculty members have agreed to oversee compliance.
 Labs will remain open evenings and weekends for students’ use, contingent upon
compliance with these rules.
CONDUCT FOR TREATMENT OF TRAINEES
http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/esl/studentprograms/studenthandbook/Policies/standard
sofconduct.html
29
HONORS AND AWARDS
The Dean’s Award
The graduate student who has achieved the highest academic record at the end of the
curriculum provided the cumulative GPA is a 3.8 or above, will be nominated for the
Dean’s Award.
Outstanding Student Award
The Division of Physician Assistant Studies gives an award each year to the graduating
student who is thought to possess outstanding attributes. Fellow classmates and faculty
choose the recipient at the end of the senior summer semester. The following
procedures are used:

All seniors and faculty will vote for one person for outstanding student; votes are
tallied, and the winner will receive the award at graduation in August.

In case the elected student is not eligible for graduation in August of the senior
year, the award will go to the runner-up.
OUTSTANDING STUDENT AWARD CRITERIA FOR SELECTION
1.
Professional - Demonstrates the ability to act as a member of the health care
team and be involved in the advancement of the PA profession
2.
Empathetic - Demonstrates the ability to work well with others recognizing
individual needs
3.
Preserving - Demonstrates the ability to set lasting goals and utilize initiative
4.
Responsible - Demonstrates dependability and the ability to assume
responsibility for own actions
5.
Independent - Demonstrates the ability to be sincere, helpful, and patient
6.
Leadership - Demonstrates willingness to be involved in student and/or
professional activities
7.
Initiative - Demonstrates the ability to be resourceful and self-directed
8.
Constructive - Demonstrates a positive attitude and the ability to be creative
9.
Inquisitive - Demonstrates the ability to question for patients’ welfare and for
self- improvement
10.
Organized - Demonstrates the ability to be logical and systematically functional
30
Student Manual MSPAS 2014
STUDENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Department Of Health Professions, Division of Physician Assistant Studies
I,
(printed full name), have read the Student Policies and
Procedures Manual for the Division of PA Studies in its entirety and understand all sections. I
have asked my student services coordinator, faculty advisor or division director to explain any
sections that I had difficulty understanding. I understand that I am responsible for following all
the provisions set forth by this manual while I am enrolled in the program. I recognize that
these policies are provided to support my professional and clinical development and help me
become a successful physician assistant.
I also signify that I have read and understand the following documents and hereby pledge my
support.

MUSC Honor Code

MUSC Bulletin

College of Health Professions Student Policy Manual

PAS Student Policies and Procedures Manual
I understand what is expected of me as a student of the Medical University of South
Carolina and realize the University Honor Council will not accept a plea of ignorance.
Student Signature
Date