The Evolution of Training and Practice of Physician Assistantship in Ghana

Abstract

The PA training is a four (4) year didactic and clinical programme designed with foundational, introductory, and clinical courses with an additional one (1) year post-graduation mandatory internship with approximately 100 students admitted per year per Institution. PA Training begins with a strong foundational courses in the sciences such as advanced chemistry, biochemistry, physics, nursing, basic computer science, African studies, information skills, microbiology. These foundational courses are the building blocks for introductory courses such as clinical anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, pathology, clinical biochemistry, applied pharmacology, basic epidemiology, statistics, diagnostic imaging and laboratory medicine.  The student is then prepared for the clinical courses such as internal medicine, emergency medicine, general surgery and traumatology, public and community health medicine,  paediatrics, child health, reproductive health, obstetrics and gynaecology, health systems research, medical ethics and law, health system management, project work, preceptorship and clerkship. These courses are structured to fit the need of the population.

The evolution of Physician Assistantship training in Ghana had seen a significant boost in recent years. The program evolved from a certificate to an advanced diploma and now a bachelor's degree (BSc). Additionally, it has shifted from the traditional ways of only training nurses as PAs to senior high school graduates' training. The latter has been a substantial breakthrough in the advancement of the profession.