PAST 518A Principles of Professional Practice I

Credits: 3
This is the first of a continuing course series designed to cover a variety of topics on the patient/provider relationship, interpersonal and communication skills that result in the effective exchange of information and collaboration with patients, their families and other health professionals. Themes covered this term will be further expanded upon throughout the academic year. They are a fundamental part of establishing a robust platform for clinical practice. Summer quarter topics include patient-provider communication, population health, professionalism, professional practice, wellness, bias in medicine, cultural humility and ethics. Discussions about cultural dimensions of medical practice and social determinants of health aim to familiarize students with a variety of human variations and systemic factors that may significantly impact health outcomes. The foundations of medical ethics will be explored. The history of the PA profession and medical practice will also be discussed. Finally, an introduction to Health Promotion/Disease Prevention will include overviews of public health, behavioral changes, patient history taking and education. Lecture, small group format, videotaping and opportunities for role-playing are utilized.

Graded: Pass/No pass
May be taken only once for credit