New Physician Assistant Program Opens in L.A.
Many students seeking careers in healthcare eye new Physician Assistant program
Touro’s Joint Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies/Master of Public Health program – the only one of its kind in the nation to offer both degrees in a single program – is one of the top-ranked programs nationally. This program will soon be getting a sister program based in Los Angeles – minus the MPH element.
Touro California is helping meet the growing demand for care providers with the creation of a new PA program in Fall of 2023 in Southern California, what is being referred to around the Northern California campus as PA-LA.
PAs are becoming a highly popular hiring choice for healthcare systems, particularly in underserved and rural areas. These healthcare professionals provide a wide range of services for patients and are economical options for smaller clinic settings, which tend to be more commonplace in underserved locations.
The program takes students 28 months to complete and includes nine 5-week rotations to give students a well-rounded set of healthcare experiences. Headquartered at Mission Community Hospital in Panorama City and is expected to enroll 45 students in the inaugural class.
“The program will serve a diverse population, especially the underserved population and foster research throughout the curriculum with a master's project in the final (culminating) semester,” DePrisco said. “In keeping with the mission, the program will promote community service by having all students participate in a community service project as well.” Visit the PA LA website.