The Physician Associate Podcast

Thanks for listening to the Physician Associate Podcast. It's been 3 years now since I launched the podcast, and I'm really proud to have gone over 100 episodes and 50,000 downloads! Thanks for all of your kind messages about the show. If you have time, please leave a review on your podcasts app about the show to help spread the word, so that more people can find out about the Physician Associate profession. Please tell your friends, family and colleagues about the podcast so that together we can highlight all the amazing things PAs are doing! I'm going to take a few weeks off releasing new episodes to enjoy Christmas - but if you have any ideas that would make great episodes for next season, please do get in touch! You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast on social media Twitter - ⁠@PApodcastUK⁠ Facebook - ⁠PApodcastUK⁠ Instagram - ⁠@PApodcastUK⁠  Look after yourselves working clinically this winter - it's going to be tough - and please watch out for your colleagues too. Looking forward to joining you for new episodes of the PA podcast next year. Thanks, James  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, I was invited as a guest to speak on another podcast - a series called the illuminating Primary Care Podcast - run by MenloPark, who are a primary care recruitment company. We discuss all aspects of the PA role, from qualifying through to working as part of a PCN and what the future looks like in general practice for PAs. Your can find out more about Menlo Park Recruitment on their website and check out their Illuminating Primary Care podcast series too. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode we talk with Nick Pollard, co-author of ‘Eating Disorders: An Oxford Specialist Handbook’. Combining evidence-based knowledge with personal experience (having supported his own daughter in her recovery from an eating disorder) Nick provides knowledge and skills that will help all Physician Associates to recognise, manage, and support specialist treatment for these devastating illnesses. The podcast includes a clip from the eLearning that accompanies the textbook. Checkout the eLearning at https://familymentalwealth.thinkific.com/courses/health-professionals-elearning-ED The first part is completely free, and you can get a 25% discount by entering this special e-coupon at the checkout… phapod237851 (discount available for 25 people on a first-come-first-served basis). You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

For #PAweek2023, I was hosted on the General Practice Podcast by Ben Gowland. Ben was the inspiration for me setting up the PA podcast, and he's been very supportive in helping behind the scenes. It was lovely to speak to Ben about the current issues facing the PA profession, and how things might develop in the future. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK And you can check out Ben's brilliant General Practice Podcast here --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, I hear from Dr Nabeel Arshad who is a GP at The Brooke Surgery. We discuss how the surgery is innovating primary care services, and the part that physician associates have played in their success. Hear more about how Physician Associates help The Brooke Surgery provide Unlimited Access 24/7, 365 to their patients. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, I chat with Dr James Gray - who is a GP and experienced Clinical Educator, with particular interests in leading the training of Physician Associates at the University of Sheffield We discuss topics such as training medical and PA students, how PAs are growing in the north of England and collecting research into physician associates. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode we hear from Natasha Warner about her community work on violence reduction and the work Natasha has been doing outside of her clinical role with an organisation called YourStance. To find out more you can visit Yourstance.org or contact Natasha via her email. Since the recording of the podcast, the signup method to Yourstance has slightly changed, if you would like to signup please do so via Volunteero link below or via the Yourstance webpage You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, we hear from Ben Wilkinson, a physician associate in acute medicine with a personal interest in research. We discuss the importance of healthcare education accessibility, as well as novel findings specific to physician associate students - and how these might be applied in the context of workforce crises. Ben also outlines his experience of adapting a post-graduate dissertation for academic publication, for which the pre-print can be viewed here: https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-2402719/v1  You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, we hear from Sabina Patel, a final year PA student and National student representative to the FPA on why she changed careers from companion diagnostics to a physician associate degree. We also talk about some of the help available to students during the current cost of living crisis as well as common questions to the FPA. If you'd like to find out more, Sabina can be contacted via LinkedIn or at sp31hcs@bolton.ac.uk Find out more about Student Finance England and UCAS about tuition fees. Some universities may off additional help with fuel or living costs - more information can be found on the finance page of the respective university. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, James Catton talks to PA Ria Agarwal about her research into supporting physician associates in difficulty. There are a number of different factors that can cause a PA to face difficulty in their career; money worries, relationships, complicated home lives and caring commitments to name just a few. There are a few tell-tale signs of how to spot this in a PA, and Ria shares her advice on how to help. James and Ria also talk about the differences between doctors in difficulty and PAs, and talk about some of these key publications. 1- Belonging is discussed by Nat Jones in regards ARRS: http://primarycaresheffield.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/ARRS-Report-PCS-Final-Version-September-2022-PDF.pdf… as well as the Kings Fund: https://kingsfund.org.uk/publications/courage-compassion-supporting-nurses-midwives… 2- Previous literature on a cohort of PA students identified they had more caring responsibilities and may be at higher risk of mental health needs compared to MBBS students: https://evidence.nihr.ac.uk/alert/physician-associates-need-support-establish-place-within-healthcare-workforce… 3- FPA census 2021 https://fparcp.co.uk/file/image/media/6343f3dc8cef2_MEMB_FPA_Census_Report_21_FINAL.pdf… 4- Guidance is available on our faculty's website regards PAs in difficulty https://pafacultysyb.co.uk/primary-care-pa-guidance… as well as our mentorship offer: https://pafacultysyb.co.uk/paa-resources 5- Prof Paice's piece on doctors in difficulty- https://magonlinelibrary.com/doi/abs/10.12968/hosp.2004.65.4.12739 You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - ⁠@PApodcastUK⁠Facebook - ⁠@PApodcastUK⁠Instagram - ⁠@PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

Orthopedics focuses on treating the musculoskeletal system (muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons). Join James Catton, as we uncover the remarkable journey of Jonathan, a trailblazing PA in orthopedics. This episode takes listeners on a captivating exploration of Jonathan Ogidi's life and career. From his early aspirations to his current role as a physician associate in orthopedics, gain insights into his collaborative approach, working closely with orthopedic surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible care for patients dealing with musculoskeletal conditions. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a student aspiring to join the medical field, or simply someone intrigued by the world of orthopedics, this episode promises to inspire and enlighten you. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - @PApodcastUK Facebook - @PApodcastUK Instagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this special edition, to celebrate the 100th episode of the physician associate, I asked my friends, colleagues and listeners of the podcast to send me some lovely voice messages --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode of the podcast, James Catton talks to physician associate Alex Maiello, who is the PA development manager at Hywel Dda University Health Board. Alex has created a bespoke Physician Associate Training Programme for PAs in primary care. We discuss the role of physician associates in primary care, the benefits of the two-year training program, and Alex's experience of working as a PA in Wales. Alex Maiello is a physician associate with 3 year experience and is passionate about the role of physician associates in improving access to care and providing high-quality patient care This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of primary care and the role of physician associates in GP surgeries. Alex is on Twitter @AlexMaielloPAR You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - ⁠⁠@PApodcastUK⁠⁠ Facebook - ⁠⁠@PApodcastUK⁠⁠ Instagram - ⁠⁠@PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, we discuss the role of physician assistants (PAs) in Canada with Kevin Dickson. Kevin is a Canadian PA in Emergency Medicine in Fredericton, New Brunswick. He is also the Canadian Association of Physician Assistants PA chapter president for New Brunswick. We talk about Kevin's experience of working in Canada. We discuss the benefits of PAs in the healthcare system, such as their ability to improve access to care and reduce wait times. We also discuss some of the challenges facing PAs in Canada, such as the lack of regulation across provinces. We conclude the episode by discussing the future of PAs in Canada. To find out more about PAs in Canada, check out their website. You can connect with the Physician Associate Podcast Twitter - ⁠@PApodcastUK⁠ Facebook - ⁠@PApodcastUK⁠ Instagram - ⁠@PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode of the podcast, we dive into the fascinating world of renal medicine with Izzie, a Physician Associate who brings her unique perspective to nephrology. With years of experience and a passion for patient care, Izzie sheds light on the role of a Physician Associate in managing complex renal conditions. From diagnosing and treating kidney diseases to collaborating with the multidisciplinary team, Izzie talks about the challenges and rewards of working in renal medicine. Hear about the intricacies of this specialized field of medicine, and gain a deeper understanding of how Physician Associates like Izzie are making a significant impact in the lives of patients with kidney disease. We also talk about Izzie's hopes for the future of her career in nephrology. You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

Are you a PA who wants to make more money? Tracy Bingaman is a physician assistant, who teaches PAs to make more money. Tracy is very honest with sharing her experience as a PA and getting burnt out at work. Tracy now spends her time helping others PAs achieve "work optional" financial independence. Tracy also hosts a fantastic podcast called 'The PA Is In' which you should definitely check out. Tracy's website is here if you'd like to find out more. You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

Shayan Ashjaei is a Neurology Physician Associate, based at King’s College Hospital. I asked Shayan all about his background in neuroscience, his personal connection to wanting to work in neurology, and what he loves about the speciality. Shayan passionately explains his choice of specialising in neurology and provides a glimpse into his daily activities on the ward, which involve delivering exceptional patient care, participating in exciting procedures, and serving as an educator. Shayan is able to work on a number of clinical procedures including lumbar punctures, skin and muscle biopsies. Shayan has also developed, implemented and delivered regular lumbar puncture teaching and is trained to perform greater occipital nerve (GON) blocks for acute neurology patients with occipital neuralgia, cluster and cervicogenic headaches. Shayan has also worked on a “neurology virtual clinic” - a unique virtual post-discharge clinic for neurology inpatients’ investigations, to improve follow up and the safety of patient care. For those seeking further information, Shayan can be contacted through his Instagram account, Neurolgy.PA, where he actively engages with followers and shares valuable insights about his journey in the field of neurology. You can get in touch with Shayan on his LinkedIn page You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

Kiran Landa is a Physician Associate, working in Clinical Paediatrics and health-tech innovation. A large part of Kiran's role involves research, software engineering and using technology. However, Kiran has had an interesting - and at times difficult - path to landing her dream job. Kiran gives us a frank and honest description of her struggles in her career so far, and we discuss dealing with burnout as a physician associate. You can get in touch with Kiran on LinkedIn You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

A trade union is a group of employees who join together to maintain and improve their conditions of employment. The typical activities of trade unions include providing assistance and services to their members, collectively bargaining for better pay and conditions for all workers, working to improve the quality of public services, political campaigning and industrial action. Nearly seven million people in the UK belong to a trade union. There is a trade union for doctors - the British Medical Association (BMA) - but there isn't yet a trade union for physician associates. I spoke with Susan Singleton, who has begun to make progress towards setting up a PA union about her plans. You can connect to Susan's PA Buddy Support Network on Facebook and the PA Association UK on Twitter. You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message

In this episode, I was lucky enough to meet the award winning operation team for medical education at Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. I'm joined by Marylyn Dickinson, associate director of medical education and non-clinical lead for PAs, Dr Cara Hendry, consultant cardiologist and clinical lead for PAs and Chelsey Clarke, lead PA/PA in acute medicine. The team won the PA contribution award at last year's FPARCP conference. The team is dedicated to overseeing all PA students on placements, promoting the PA role to all workforce education committees, delivering regional CPD days and a whole lot more to help support the PA profession in their area. You can connect with the Physician Associate PodcastTwitter - @PApodcastUKFacebook - @PApodcastUKInstagram - @PApodcastUK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/physician-associate/message