The MMI process allows PA programs to evaluate the varying levels of knowledge of the candidates they are considering for admission to their program. Given the wide variety of interview stations you will visit during the process, you can expect at least one question on healthcare policy related to practicing as a physician assistant. Be sure to read up on various policies before your interview.

Note how this particular question is worded. As you read this question before entering the MMI session, it's important to understand that they are asking you how you feel about these differences. While it is okay to give your opinion, you must ensure your interviewer understands that you will keep an open mind to changing your practice depending on where you land after graduating from their program. Touch on the particular scope of practice for PAs in the state the program you are interviewing with lies in. Doing so will show your interviewer that you have done your homework and are interested in the overall policy issue.

"PAs are readily trained and educated to be authorities in prescribing drugs and medical devices and should be allowed to do so within their scope of practice. This would allow physicians more time for procedures and more patients to be treated promptly. Unfortunately, this is not the case in most states, and I know that groups like the AAPA are advocating for broadening the scope of practice. This is something I would advocate for as well. But I'm in a position right now to always obey my scope of practice, both during my rotations as a student with your program and in my practice following graduation. I've learned that in Iowa, PAs can prescribe schedules III-V drugs, and I am very knowledgeable on what those schedules entail. I also understand that PAs in this state must be under the supervision of a physician and ultimately have the final responsibility of all care for a patient."