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Rachelle Enns
Rachelle is a job search expert, career coach, and headhunter who helps everyone from students to fortune 500 executives find success in their career.
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What are some of the challenges of working as a physician assistant?
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OUR COACH SAYS
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.
Example #1
"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."
Example #2
"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."
Example #3
"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."
Anonymous Answer
"As a PA, you are trained as a generalist provider, and possibly a given specialty if you so choose. However, as a PA, you may encounter cases that are complex and beyond what you may feel comfortable treating and diagnosing. You can collaborate with other providers and do the best you can to treat the patient. Sometimes patients may be too complicated, and you may have to refer them to another provider.
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 Reply
These are real work challenges, indeed. You do a nice job offering up options on how to overcome situations like this.
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Anonymous Answer
"Any time you are working with people, there is always the challenge of communicating effectively. Whether it's with patients or co-workers, it's important to take time to ensure both parties are on the same page working in the same direction.
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 Reply
This is a very well thought out response.
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Anonymous Answer
"A lot of people complain that physician assistants might not get the autonomy that they may crave, or get from attending medical school. However, physician assistants get autonomy working in rural populations or areas where health care professionals are lacking."
Rachelle's Reply
This is an understandable challenge indeed; however, you make an excellent point when it comes to the opportunities present for PAs in rural areas. Well thought out answer!
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More Interview Q&As
Explore expert tips and resources to be more confident in your next interview.
Behavioral
Common
Phone
Tough
Leadership
All Interview Topics
All Career Q&As
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