Academics >> PA Program >> Program Mission and Goals

The mission of the Mercer University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Physician Assistant Program is to educate patient-centered medical providers of the highest quality who are leaders, life-long learners, possess an appreciation of ethical values and human diversity, and are provided a foundation to practice in every discipline of allopathic medicine.  The Physician Assistant Program emphasizes evidence-based medicine, informatics, critical decision making, interdisciplinary teamwork, and continuous quality improvement.

The following program goals support the mission of the Mercer University Physician Assistant program and seek to:

• Provide an educational experience that develops a strong foundation in the basic, behavioral, and clinical sciences appropriate to an entry-level primary care physician assistant
• Foster an environment that encourages analytical thinking and the use of information technology to support patient care decisions and patient education
• Promote clinical decision making that considers the uniqueness of each patient
• Encourage self reflection in a manner that stimulates personal growth, accountability, and a better understanding of one’s strengths and weaknesses
• Cultivate a team responsiveness with physicians and other health care professionals to provide patient-centered care
• Advocate moral and ethical behavior consistent with values found and supported in the University’s Judeo-Christian heritage, while respecting the pluralistic values of our society
• Encourage graduates to accept leadership roles in their communities and profession
• Promote community involvement that encourages partnerships which seek to improve the quality of health care and service learning
• Equip each graduate to be an educator, patient advocate, facilitator, and counselor
• Provide resources that will enhance the personal and professional growth of students, faculty, and staff in a mutually respectful community