How to Answer: What are some of the challenges of working as a physician assistant?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Physician Assistant job interview.
4. What are some of the challenges of working as a physician assistant?
How to Answer
This question is similar to the interviewer asking what your weaknesses are. Because this is one of the most common interview questions, you'll want to have a few examples prepared. Consider a few examples of patients coming in with a variety of unexpected ailments, technology going wrong, or a coworker showing up late for work. Tell the interviewer how you handle these situations.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 31st, 2023
Entry Level Example
"My biggest challenge is having to prioritize on a daily basis, in hopes of getting everything done. No two days are the same as a physician assistant, so I can use a plethora of skills, which is amazing. I have become very proficient at prioritization and delegation."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"A challenge as a PA can be that we have more patients than we have coverage or availability. I've learned so much working in this fast-paced environment. My most important take away from these types of situations has been learning the importance of time management, clear documentation, and appropriate scheduling."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"My current team is understaffed and has been for about a year now. It can be challenging because each person on the team is stretched. However, it's been a great opportunity to collaborate on key initiatives. We are making the best of the situation."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Also, in any health profession, patients maybe not wanting to deal with their health condition, and you have to do the best you can to treat, educate, and provide resources. It is challenging to figure out how to best manage and help each patient, but as a provider, you should do your best to provide individualized care to have the best outcomes for patients."
Rachelle's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Patients with unexpected ailments present a unique challenge. I may have to refer them out or take extra time to contact my supervising physician."
Rachelle's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Rachelle's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Rachelle's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Rachelle's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Also, caring for a difficult patient could be challenging. I was once taking a history from a patient who was not willing to share answers with me. I talked to him, calmed him down, empathized with him, and explained to him the importance of sharing answers. As a result, the patient became very open, and I was able to take a history and examine my patient."
Stephanie's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
As a PA I had to work on weekdays, weekends, and holidays so I had to manage my work/life balance and take frequent breaks to reduce stress.
They are important factors when we work from low to high acuity areas in medicine, so managing treatment plans effectively would be beneficial."
Marcie's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback