The interviewer wants to see that you have insights into the desired qualities and characteristics of a competent physician's assistant. This question is an opportunity to give a unique answer that aligns your beliefs with theirs, so perform research and try to dig deeper than 'good bedside manner' or 'strong attention to detail.' For example, some of the qualities they advertise as of utmost importance in their graduates are "cultural humility, & culturally sensitive care." Additionally, they state in their student handbook, "Graduates must demonstrate the ability to listen to and understand patients' beliefs and attitudes toward health and health care. Competent graduates understand that their relationship with patients can be affected by differences in power, privilege, and the inequities embedded therein, and they work to ensure that patients are viewed, and view themselves, as partners in health. Competent practitioners must be able to develop professional relationships with their patients that will ensure patient-focused decision-making."
