Physician Associate

Course overview

Physician Associates play a vital role working alongside doctors to provide front-line care to patients and there is a growing demand for the profession in the UK healthcare sector.

The apprenticeship programme is designed to ensure participants become compassionate and professional Physician Associates.

• The programme focuses on varied learning such as patient centred history taking, physical examinations, improving clinical decision making, enhancing clinical planning, procedures and therapeutic interventions.
• Participants will develop necessary skills such as nurturing good relationships with patients, updating records, and maintaining continued professional development through self-directed learning and acting as a professional mentor to others.

Apprenticeship components

The apprenticeship has been formulated to be delivered in a work-based learning environment and uses a hybrid model of delivery. Each module will provide participants with the opportunity to learn essential theory and apply this in their practice. 

On successful completion of the apprenticeship programme, you will be required to undertake an End Point Assessment (EPA) which will be the national Physician Associate Registration Assessment (PARA) set by the Royal College of Physicians.

Indicative modules include.

• Principles of General Medicine.
• Principles of Speciality Medical Practice.
• Preparation for Qualified Practice.

Programme eligibility

To complete an apprenticeship, you must be employed in an organisation with your employer's support. We typically require apprentice applications 8 weeks before programme starts and by undertaking an apprenticeship, you commit to completing the End Point Assessment (EPA).

The Physician Associate Apprenticeship typically requires.

• A 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in a science or health care related sector.
• GCSE Maths and English, Grade C (4) or equivalent. 

Supported learning

We will work in partnership with you to ensure you are supported throughout the apprenticeship process.

• Our Business Engagement Manager will provide tailored support and offer guidance on applying for an apprenticeship at Keele University, direction on eligibility and contracting, or any other questions you may have.
• This relationship does not stop once you start an apprenticeship at Keele University. We offer a personalised approach to apprentices, ensuring you have the assistance you need from Keele University as your Training Provider, every step of the way.

Funding

Apprenticeships are paid for by employers, not apprentices.

• Employers with a payroll of more than £3 million can typically use their apprenticeship levy contributions to pay for places on apprenticeship programmes.
• Any business with a payroll below £3 million is usually eligible for government funding that will cover at least 95% of the cost of an apprenticeship course. 

Additional incentives are also available to employers based on differing circumstances. 

Contact us to find out more...

How do I apply?

You make an application to study an apprenticeship through your employer with their support.

Applicants must meet several key criteria:  

• Employment in a relevant role: Applicants must be currently employed in a position relevant to the apprenticeship or be recruited into a new role that aligns with the apprenticeship focus.  
• If you are seeking a new role with apprenticeship training: Employers will typically advertise apprenticeship vacancies through their own recruitment sites and browse apprenticeships before you apply.
• Meet entry requirements: You must satisfy the specific entry requirements for the apprenticeship, including necessary educational qualifications and/or relevant professional experience.  
• Employer support for upskilling: Existing employees are encouraged to discuss with their employers the potential for support in upskilling through the apprenticeship, which can enhance their professional development and benefit the organisation.