If you have your sights set on becoming a physician assistant (PA), then you’ve most likely come across the idea of shadowing. Finding an opportunity to shadow (or observe a practicing PA on-the-job) is one of the most valuable steps you can take on your path to the career. It offers a firsthand look at the responsibilities of the job, helping you get an understanding of the role beyond what you can learn in the classroom. Furthermore, shadowing demonstrates a commitment to the profession, something that PA school admissions committees look for in strong applicants.
But finding and preparing for PA shadowing opportunities can be a challenge, especially if you’re unsure of where to start. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from tips for finding opportunities to what to expect from the experience.
Let’s get started.
What Is PA Shadowing?
The Importance of Shadowing a PA Before Applying to PA School
Tips for Finding PA Shadowing Opportunities
Preparing for PA Shadowing
PA Shadowing Requirements for PA School
FAQs
What Is PA Shadowing?
Shadowing a physician assistant is an observational experience where pre-med students follow a practicing PA to get a firsthand look into their daily routine and responsibilities. This opportunity allows aspiring PAs to witness patient interactions, medical procedures, and clinical decision-making in action.
Some of the tasks that students may observe during a shadowing experience include:
- Patient discussions, including conversations about medical histories
- Physical examinations
- Review of diagnostic tests and treatment plans
- Care coordination with other healthcare professionals
While shadowing does not involve hands-on patient care, it provides valuable exposure to the PA profession, helping students gain a realistic idea of the role’s demands and confirming their interest in pursuing a career as a PA.
The Importance of Shadowing a PA Before Applying to PA School
In addition to enabling students to truly understand whether a career as a PA is the right choice, one of the benefits of physician assistant shadowing is gaining firsthand experience with the profession’s different facets. Not only does it provide an opportunity to observe the balance between medical expertise and patient-centered care, it also enables students to see how skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving come into play.
PA shadowing is also a great way to demonstrate a strong commitment to the profession. PA programs value applicants who take the initiative to fully explore the role before applying. It shows that you’ve done your research and due diligence, understand the demands of the job, and are serious about pursuing this career path.
Finally, shadowing can help shape your career trajectory. Observing PAs in different specializations or work environments may open the door to medical concentrations that pique your interest — whether it’s primary care, surgery, emergency medicine, or another area entirely. Plus, you’ll be able to build relationships with the medical professionals you meet during shadowing and build the foundation of a professional network that can serve you well throughout your career.
To recap, shadowing a PA comes with the following benefits:
- The opportunity to observe the day-to-day of a practicing PA
- Gaining insight into the way PAs work with patients and collaborate with other healthcare professionals
- The ability to make an informed decision about whether the PA career aligns with your skills, interests, and goals
- A stronger PA school application, since programs often favor applicants who show dedication to the profession
- Networking opportunities
Tips for Finding PA Shadowing Opportunities
Finding physician assistant shadowing opportunities can be challenging, but with persistence and the right approach, you’ll have a better chance of securing the experience you’re looking for. Here are six effective strategies to help you get started:
1. Networking
One of the most effective ways to find shadowing opportunities is through your personal network. Ask your classmates, mentors, or instructors if they know any PAs who might be open to being shadowed or of any healthcare facilities that have existing shadowing programs. Personal connections can often open doors that formal applications cannot.
2. Local Clinics & Hospitals
Try reaching out directly to local medical centers, hospitals, urgent care facilities, or specialty clinics. Many of these institutions have formal shadowing programs, while others may arrange opportunities on a case-by-case basis. When reaching out, be professional and prepared — be sure to emphasize your interest in the PA profession and ask if they allow students to shadow.
3. Get in Touch With Professional Associations
Check with physician assistant organizations like the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) or state-level PA associations. These groups often have resources that can help you find the shadowing opportunities you’re looking for.
4. Take Advantage of Your School’s Career Center
Your college or university’s career services can be an excellent resource, especially if it has a dedicated healthcare career center. Many of these offices have established relationships with local healthcare providers or maintain a list of shadowing opportunities specifically for pre-health students.
5. Peruse Online Platforms
Look for websites, forums, and directories dedicated to healthcare shadowing opportunities. Platforms like LinkedIn can also be useful for getting in touch with PAs who may be open to shadowing.
6. Be Persistent & Always Follow Up
Finding shadowing opportunities takes time and patience. If you don’t hear back right away, follow up politely after a week or two. Demonstrating professionalism and persistence can keep you top-of-mind and set you apart from others seeking similar opportunities.
A quick note on legitimacy: Always ensure that any shadowing opportunity that comes your way is legitimate and originates from a reputable source. Be cautious of any programs that require fees to participate or seem unverified. When in doubt, consult with an academic advisor, career counselor, or trusted mentor.
Preparing for PA Shadowing
Once you’ve secured a shadowing opportunity, it’s in your best interest to prepare to make the most of the experience. With proper preparation, you’ll feel more confident and show the PA that you’re serious about learning and respectful of their time and profession. Here’s how you can get ready:
- Do your research: Before shadowing begins, take time to learn about the healthcare facility where you’ll be shadowing. Understanding the scope of practice and the type of patients served will help you follow along more easily.
- Follow the dress code: First impressions matter, especially in a professional healthcare setting. Unless instructed otherwise, dress in business casual attire — think slacks of khakis, a blouse or button-down shirt, and practical (yet professional) closed-toe shoes.
- Prepare thoughtful questions: Shadowing isn’t only about observing (though it makes up a significant portion of the experience), as it’s also a chance to learn. To supplement any questions that come to mind as you shadow, spend some time beforehand putting together a list of thoughtful questions to ask the PA. Some examples include:
- What motivated you to become a PA?
- What does a typical day look like for you?
- What are the most rewarding and challenging parts of your job?
- What advice would you give to someone applying to PA school?
- Practice proper etiquette: Healthcare settings require strict adherence to professionalism and legal standards — and this expectation will extend to you as well. During your shadowing experience, remain mindful of HIPAA compliance and patient confidentiality. Never discuss patient details outside of the facility and avoid taking notes that include identifiable information. It’s also important to keep in mind that patients have the right to decline having a student present, so always follow the PA’s lead when entering exam rooms.
PA Shadowing Requirements for PA School
While shadowing isn’t always a requirement for admission, having this experience on your resume goes a long way with PA school admissions committees. If you plan to include shadowing hours as part of your application, keep the following in mind:
Hours Documentation
Accurate documentation of your shadowing hours is crucial. For programs that have a shadowing requirement, it’s especially important to keep detailed records of your experience. From the beginning of your experience, maintain a log that includes:
- The name of the PA (or PAs) you shadowed and their credentials
- Facility name(s) and location(s)
- Dates and total hours shadowed
- Specialization or field observed
- Any learnings or reflections
Minimum Hour Requirements
Shadowing requirements can vary significantly between PA programs, and while some schools don’t set a strict minimum, others may require 100+ hours of shadowing experience. That’s why you should always research the specific requirements for each program you plan to apply to. A good rule of thumb to follow: Aim to exceed the minimum if you can — this shows admissions committees that you’re dedicated to the PA profession.
Diversity of Experience
PA schools often show favor to applicants who have shadowed in multiple specializations or clinical settings. Observing PAs in different areas of medicine gives you a broader understanding of the profession’s versatility. It also shows initiative and a commitment to finding the career path that’s right for you.
Letters of Recommendation
One of the added benefits of shadowing is the potential to build professional relationships that can lead to letters of recommendation — a central part of your PA school applications. A letter written by a PA you’ve shadowed can provide admissions committees with valuable insights into your dedication, curiosity, and fit for the profession.
FAQs
Where do I find physician assistant shadowing opportunities?
You can find PA shadowing opportunities in several different places: Through networking; by contacting local clinics, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities; reaching out to professional associations; taking advantage of your school’s career services office; and via online platforms are all strategies you can use.
How many shadowing hours are required for PA school?
The number of required shadowing hours varies by PA program. While some don’t require any, others may expect to see upwards of 100 shadowing hours on applications. That’s why it’s best to research each program’s requirements before you apply.
What are some questions to ask a PA during shadowing?
Asking thoughtful questions during shadowing shows genuine interest and helps you gain a deeper understanding of the profession. Consider asking questions like:
- What motivated you to become a PA?
- What does a typical day look like for you?
- What are the most rewarding and challenging parts of your job?
- What advice would you give to someone applying to PA school?
Does virtual shadowing count for PA school?
Virtual shadowing rose to popularity during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Though it’s possible to find virtual shadowing opportunities today, in-person PA shadowing is almost always preferred.
Shadowing a physician assistant is an important step to take in your PA school and overall career journey. If you’re ready to jumpstart your healthcare career, consider enrolling in Advanced eClinical’s pre-PA certification courses — online programs specifically designed for aspiring physician assistants.
