capa news august/september 2011

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News N Official Publication of the California Academy of Physician Assistants ician A August/September 2011 PA Week PArty In A Box The Magazine \ N ational PA Week (October 6-12) will be a whole lot more fun and exciting this year. CAPA has made it quick and easy for you to order a PA Week Banner which comes with 20 PA Week balloons for display at your office, clinic, hospital, school, etc. is banner is designed to represent the professionalism of PAs and the importance of PA Week. is is a great opportunity for your practice to honor the contribu- tions you and your PA colleagues make to patient care. Hang the banner proudly for all to see! All are printed on vinyl to be hung inside or outside and are available in various sizes. Talk to your office manager/administrator, supervising physician, HR person or whomever it is that can give you the go ahead to order a PA Week PArty In A Box. To get the process going, share this information with that person so you can receive your banner and balloons in time for National PA Week. Dedicated to PAtient Care PA Week october 6-12 2011 PA Week october 6-12 Dedicated to PAtient Care ere are three (3) different sizes from which to choose and each comes with 20 PA Week balloons. Ready to fill with helium!! It’s a PArty! Hang In Your Waiting Room, Building Lobby or Outside e smaller banners are perfect to hang in your waiting room or building/office lobby. And, if you hang it with Command Strips, you won’t have to use a nail or tack. Command Strips won’t harm any surface when used correctly. Grommets Can Be Added At No Additional Charge If you will be hanging your banner outside and would like it to have grommets for nails/ropes, etc., please check the appropriate box on the form or online. If you don’t mark either box, the banner will not have grommets. Order Online Or Use e Order Form Found on Page 2 If you receive this magazine in time to place your order by September 9, 2011 you can order a customized PA Week Banner with your company name or logo. Go to www.capanet.org for details or call the CAPA office at (714) 427-0321. Dedicated to PAtient Care PA Week october 6-12 Your Text Here

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Page 1: CAPA News August/September 2011

NewsNewsOfficial Publication of the California Academy of Physician AssistantsOfficial Publication of the California Academy of Physician Assistants

August/September 2011

PA Week PArty In A Box

The Magazine\

N ational PA Week (October 6-12) will be a whole lot more fun and exciting this year. CAPA has made it quick and easy for you

to order a PA Week Banner which comes with 20 PA Week balloons for display at your office, clinic, hospital, school, etc.

This banner is designed to represent the professionalism of PAs and the importance of PA Week. This is a great opportunity for your practice to honor the contribu-tions you and your PA colleagues make to patient care. Hang the banner proudly for all to see! All are printed on vinyl to be hung inside or outside and are available in various sizes.

Talk to your office manager/administrator, supervising physician, HR person or whomever it is that can give you the go ahead to order a PA Week PArty In A Box. To get the process going, share this information with that person so you can receive your banner and balloons in time for National PA Week.

Dedicated to PAtient Care

PA Weekoctober 6-12

2011

PA Weekoctober 6-12Dedicated to

PAtient Care

There are three (3) different sizes from which to choose and each comes with 20 PA Week balloons. Ready to fill with helium!! It’s a PArty!

Hang In Your Waiting Room, Building Lobby or OutsideThe smaller banners are perfect to hang in your waiting room or building/office lobby. And, if you hang it with Command Strips, you won’t have to use a nail or tack. Command Strips won’t harm any surface when used correctly.

Grommets Can Be Added At No Additional ChargeIf you will be hanging your banner outside and would like it to have grommets for nails/ropes, etc., please check the appropriate box on the form or online. If you don’t mark either box, the banner will not have grommets.

Order Online Or Use The Order Form Found on Page 2

If you receive this magazine in time to place your order by September 9, 2011 you can order a customized PA Week

Banner with your company name or logo. Go to www.capanet.org for details or call the CAPA office at (714) 427-0321.

Dedicated to PAtient Care

PA Weekoctober 6-12

Your Text Here

Page 2: CAPA News August/September 2011

2 CAPA NEWS

Editor

Gaye Breyman, CAE

Managing Editor

Denise Werner

Editorial Board

Eric Glassman, MHS, PA-CBeth Grivett, PA-CBob Miller, PA-CLarry Rosen, PA-CMichael Scarano, Jr., Esq.

CAPA Board Of Directors

President

Eric Glassman, MHS, [email protected]

President Elect

Adam Marks, MPA, [email protected]

Vice President

Jeremy A. Adler, MS, [email protected]

Secretary

Cherri Penne-Myers, PA-C, [email protected]

Treasurer

Bob Miller, [email protected]

Directors-At-Large

Margaret Allen, [email protected]

Roy Guizado, MS, [email protected]

Greg Mennie, PA-C, [email protected]

Larry Rosen, [email protected]

Student Representative

Joy Dugan, [email protected]

The CAPA News is the official publication of the California Academy of Physician Assistants. This publication is devoted to informing physician assistants to enable them to better serve the public health and welfare. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. Letters to the editor are encouraged; the publisher reserves the right to publish, in whole or in part, all letters received. Byline articles express the opinion of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the California Academy of Physician Assistants.

The CAPA office is located at:3100 W. Warner Ave., Suite 3Santa Ana, CA 92704-5331Office: (714) 427-0321Fax: (714) 427-0324Email: [email protected]: www.capanet.org©2011 California Academy of Physician Assistants

NewsNews At the Table

PA Week PArty In A Box — Order FormStandard Banners: (CA Shipping and Handling Included)Deadline: Standard Banner orders must be received by September 21, 2011

$80.00 – 3 ft x 4 ft Standard Banner with 20 balloons ___________________________

$125.00 – 4 ft x 6 ft Standard Banner with 20 balloons ___________________________

$185.00 – 5 ft x 8 ft Standard Banner with 20 balloons ___________________________

Ordering 5 or more of the same standard PA Week banners, call for special pricing: (714) 427-0321 Include grommets? Yes No

Total (CA shipping/handling & sales tax included in pricing): __________________________

Billing Address:

Name: __________________________________________Company Name: ____________________________________________________________

Address: ______________________________________ City: _________________________________ State: _________Zip: __________________

Phone Number: ________________________________________ Fax Number: ____________________________________________________

Email Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Shipping Address:

Check here if same as Billing Address

Name: __________________________________________Company Name: ____________________________________________________________

Address: ______________________________________ City: _________________________________ State: _________Zip: __________________

Phone Number: ________________________________________ Fax Number: ____________________________________________________

Payment Information:

Check Card Number: _____________________________________________ CVV#: __________

Name on Card: _____________________________ Signature: _________________________________Exp. Date: _____________________

Phone or fax order: MasterCard or Visa only, Phone (714) 427-0321, Toll Free Fax: (800) 480-CAPA (2272). To avoid duplicate orders, please do not mail the original order form if you have faxed or emailed it to the CAPA office. Mail order form and make checks payable to: CAPA, 3100 W. Warner Avenue, Suite 3, Santa Ana, CA 92704.

PA Educators and CAPA Leaders Meet in Santa Ana. L to R: Les Howard, PA-C; Mike DeRosa, MPH, PhD, PA-C; Delores Middleton, PA-C; Teresa Anderson, MPH; Beth Grivett, PA-C and Adam Marks, MPA, PA-C

Jeremy A. Adler, MS, PA-C and Patrick Astourian, PA-C attend a reception in San Diego in honor of Assemblymember Toni Atkins

Order Onlinewww.capanet.org

Page 3: CAPA News August/September 2011

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 3

At the Table .........................................................................2

PA Week PArty In A Box - Order Form ..................................2

Lobbyist For A Day...............................................................3

Advancing the Physician Assistant Profession In California Through Health Care Reform ................................................4

Health Care Reform and PA Education: Challenges and Opportunity .................................................6

A Wave of New Leadership in CAPA’s 35th Year .....................7

Someone Asked Us ... ..........................................................8

Embracing Diversity .............................................................9

CAPA: The Spirit of Volunteerism ...........................................9

Did You Know? ..................................................................10

PA in the UK ......................................................................11

CAPA PAC is Heading to Palm Springs .................................12

Two Special Opportunities To Make A Difference At The CAPA Conference .....................................................13

Fun in Palm Springs ...........................................................14

Keynote Luncheon .............................................................15

A Special Thank You! .........................................................15

Registration Info & Workshop Registration ..........................16

2011 CAPA Conference Registration Form ...........................17

Controlled Substances Education Course ..............................18

Demystifying Emergency Medicine Course ..........................19

A Look Forward .................................................................20

CAPA Welcomes Facey Medical Group As PArtners in Medicine ..........................................................21

The Top Three Myths About HIPAA ......................................23

Rotations – Impressions That Count ....................................24

Student Medical Challenge Bowl Sign Up Now .....................25

Special Student Track at the CAPA Conference .....................25

Passing the Torch ...............................................................26

Welcome New Members .....................................................27

Local Groups......................................................................27

Inside This Issue

Lobbyist For A Dayby Maryann Sheps, PA-C, CAPA Legislative Affairs Committee Member

I t was a reassuring feeling to be able to make a difference in our profession as a mere physician

assistant. I don’t believe most PAs have a plan to lobby for their professional state organization. After all, that’s for someone else to do, right? Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would ever get involved in, even the slightest bit, politics for my profession and then end up loving it! I admit that I have depended upon my colleagues to drive those ideas that could potentially change our profession. Those colleagues understood and accepted the aggravation that is conjoined between supporter-of-issues and politicians. Yet, it occurred to me that I should at least try to take the next step in being involved in my profession on a deeper, more intimate level and really help to increase our power by cultivating our number of supporters. This is a message that is clearly stated by our colleagues in the CAPA News. Many of us hear it and don’t listen. Perhaps it was Miguel Medina, PA-C, CAPA President 2008-2010, in his many motivating articles that gave me that

extra push to join the Legislative Affairs Committee last year. Now I don’t just read about the great bills CAPA introduces and works to pass, but actually practice the act of getting these laws reviewed and passed for all of us and those to come. In no time, I have come to understand a bit about legislation, our local and state government, as well as the importance to fight just a little bit every day for the freedom to perform the duties in a career that we love!

The intrigue of progression, for me, is that the next step is unknown. In June, the CAPA Legislative Affairs Committee’s next step was a trip to our State Capitol for a day of lobbying with those that do it so well, Beth Grivett, PA-C, CAPA Legislative Affairs Committee Chair and Bryce Docherty, CAPA’s Legislative Advocate. We met with many receptive Assemblymembers and Senators who welcomed us, made us feel important and let us know our voices would be heard. Meeting with them one-on-one seemed very successful in the moment but, by the end of day we

left with our fingers-crossed hoping it went as well as we thought. It’s interesting that we can put all this effort forward and feel good about the strides we made for the bill and still not be totally sure that a law will be passed. One can only hope for the best and this day of lobbying was a great step. SB 233 did pass the Senate and now we expect it to also pass the Assembly, the Governor will sign it and it will become law. I feel grateful that we have legislators like Senator Pavley, Assembly Member Eng, and a few others who will go to battle for this issue. Knowing our voices made a difference is encouraging.

It is in our best interest to keep our profession viable and strong. I believe CAPA helped to model the trend of communicating PA issues for the rest of the country. I also believe continued diligence on sponsoring and lobbying for passage of favorable PA laws is probably the best grassroots strategy for keeping a strong profession. It is up to both you and me to make the change we desire.

Page 4: CAPA News August/September 2011

4 CAPA NEWS

H ealth Care Reform is the product of two major pieces of legislation known as the

Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA - 2010) and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act (2010). Together these two pieces of legislation aim to expand health care coverage, control health care costs and improve the health care delivery system. Many of the provisions put forth in this legislation recognize the valuable contribution physician assistants can have in implementation of the PPACA and, as such, create opportunities to advance the

profession.

The UCLA Center for Health Policy Research reports almost 4.7 million previously uninsured non-elderly adults and children in California will become eligible for coverage under

health care reform. Recent health policy discussions have revolved around the question “Can our current health care system handle the increase especially in light of the impending shortage of primary care physicians?” In an effort to answer this question, health policy experts are looking to physician assistants to be a vital part of the solution. When the PPACA was crafted, much of the focus centered on team-based, patient-centered, coordinated care that would reduce costs while ensuring quality of care. The afore-mentioned is not an unfamiliar role for PAs, in fact, some might say it is the foundation of the profession.

Physician assistants can expect to find opportunities created by the PPACA everywhere from health homes to academic expansion

and health workforce development. Increasing access to care, improving the quality and efficiency of care and strengthening the primary care workforce are some of the main underpinnings of health care reform. Several titles and provisions throughout the PPACA provide opportunities to advance the PA profession. Though PA practice will benefit from many of the other provisions (electronic health records, tele-health, rural protections, etc.), the following are some of the PA specific provisions:

• Title III Improving the Quality and Efficiency of Health Care

� Encouraging the Development of New Patient Care Models establishes the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation, preference in funding opportunities are given to models of care that improve coordination, quality and efficiency of health care services (sect. 3021).

� Independence at Home Medical Practice Demonstration Projects creates home-based primary care teams designed to reduce expenditures and improve health outcomes. This section specifically includes PAs as part of the team that provide home-based primary care, makes in-home visits, available 24/7 and provide care tailored to individual beneficiary’s chronic conditions (sect. 1866)(D)(b).

� Permitting Physician Assistants to Order Post-Hospital Extended Care Services authorizes PAs to order skilled nursing care in Medicare (sect. 3108).

� Medicare Advantage Payment Performance Bonuses for Care

Advancing the Physician Assistant Profession In California Through Health Care Reformby Teresa Anderson, MPH, CAPA Public Policy Director

Coordination and Management Performance creates a financial incentive for programs that facilitate improved care through the use of PAs (sect. 3201)(n)(1)C

� Establish Community Health Teams to Support The Patient-Centered Medical Home creates health teams to provide support to primary care providers, which includes PAs (sect. 3205).

• Title IV Prevention of Chronic Disease and Improving Public Health

� School-Based Health Centers establishes and provides for comprehensive primary health services and maintains 24-hour coverage through on-call and back-up health care providers to ensure access (sect. 4101)(399z-1).

� Medicare Coverage of Annual Wellness Visit Providing a Personalize Prevention Plan (sect. 4103)

• Title V Health Care Workforce � Primary Care Training and

Enhancement allocates funding to plan, develop and operate physician assistant education programs; priority is given to institutions that propose innovative approaches to clinical teaching (i.e., patient-centered medical homes, team management of chronic diseases and inter-professional, integrated models of health care) (sect. 5301)(747)(a)

Training Program Allocations allow for 15% of appropriated amount

“PAs are like the

utility player in

baseball, they can

play anywhere”

Page 5: CAPA News August/September 2011

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 5

Advancing the Physician Assistant Profession In California Through Health Care Reformby Teresa Anderson, MPH, CAPA Public Policy Director

CAPA FACTDid You Know?

There are currently 9 accredited PA Programs in California:

per fiscal year to be used specifically for PA training programs (sect. 5301)(747)(c) (2)

� Public Health Services Track emphasized team-based service, epidemiology, emergency response and preparedness, this provision mandates that not less than 100 PAs or NPs are required to graduate from this track annually (Part D, sect. 271)(F)

� Area Health Education Centers allocates funding for infra-structure and point of service maintenance and enhance-ment awards for area health education centers, essential component to recruiting un-derrepresented minority popu-lations or individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds (sect. 5403)(751)(a).

� Primary Care Extension Program allocates funding to establish state hubs and local primary care extension agencies to provide support,

assistance and education to primary care providers with community based health teams (sect. 5404)(399)(w)

� Expanding Access to Primary Care and General Surgery Services

Incentive Payment Program for Primary Care Services at 10% for primary care services in underserved areas (sect. 5501)(a)(1)

Primary Care Provider defined as a physician who has primary specialty designation of family medicine, internal medicine, geriatric medicine or pediatric medicine; OR a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist or physician assistant for whom primary care services account for at least 60% of allowed charges under this part for such physician/practitioner in a prior period as determined appropriate

by the Secretary (sect. 5501)(a)(2)

As 2014 approaches and full imple-mentation of the PPACA is expected, policymakers and state officials are working diligently to ensure Califor-nia can meet the health care needs of the state. We at CAPA are also working hard to ensure we have a strong presence and are active participants in developing Cali-fornia’s health policy. The amount of PA specific provi-sions in health care reform clear-ly indicates PAs are a wanted and NEEDED resource in health care. In closing, I am reminded of a quote from a dear friend and colleague, Mi-cah Weinberg, “PAs are like the util-ity player in baseball, they can play anywhere.” He is right! The time is right and the PPACA recognizes the value of the utility player!

Meet Teresa, Beth Grivett

and Bob Miller at the CAPA

Conference in Palm Springs on

Saturday, 9/24/11 at 9:25 am

in the Professional Practice

Issues for PAs and Health Care

Reform session.

TOUROUNIVERSITY

Page 6: CAPA News August/September 2011

6 CAPA NEWS

collaboration that greater diversity in our profession will provide an enriched experience for all of us in the classroom and clinics. We know that diversity and inclusivity are also abso-lutely crucial in producing change in the health disparities that we witness in our patients and communities. We can easily see that we have never had a better opportunity in our profession to make an impact on this important issue than now.

The AAMC, along with others in the government, are suggesting that by 2020 we will see a shortage of approximately 91,000 physicians, which takes into consideration both primary care as well as specialty fields. Medicine has sought an in-crease in the number of medical students, but even with a projected thirty percent growth, the gap will still be too large (Association of American Medical Colleges, 2011). In the past few months, representa-tives from the AAMC, as well as the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) have suggested that the PA profession will serve as a significant partner in filling these gaps. The concept of PA partner-ship was also showcased in a variety of presentations at the AAMC Workforce Meeting this past May. We have also seen the complemen-tary work of the American Academy

Health Care Reform and PA Education: Challenges and Opportunityby Kevin Lohenry, Ph.D., PA-C, Program Director at the University of Southern California

One of the best parts of partici-pating in leadership is having front row seats to witness the

maturation of the profession. There must be a similar correlation for those who pioneered the profession in California and beyond. The battles that were fought by our founding colleagues have paid off dividends that probably far exceed their initial thoughts. While we have had accep-tance in the field for many years, we are now witnessing a general accep-tance of our profession from a variety of leaders representing the govern-ment and medicine. In the past six months we have met with President Obama’s budget team on health. They understand the excellence and cost-effectiveness arguments for our profession, particularly around team practice. We have seen Representative Karen Bass, who once shared the educational stage with the rest of our faculty colleagues, join the ranks of elected leaders from California. What a privilege it is to have the first physi-cian assistant (PA) representative to Congress come from the great state of California.

We have seen the American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC) begin a partnership with the Physician Assistant Education Association for diversity and inclusivity as a tool to foster excellence. We know from this

of Physician Assistants (AAPA) in their collaborative efforts with the American College of Physicians (ACP) and the AAFP strengthen our standing with the physician commu-nity. From the initiation of modules to the development of white papers and policy statements, the collabora-tive work of the AAPA strengthens our profession.

We are now seeing the results of the hard work and dedication of all of our colleagues who have strived to create perfect physician-PA teams in the field. At the AAPA’s recent Annual Meeting, I was heartened by the Physician/PA team recognized during the PAragon Awards dinner. Christopher E. Sadler, PA-C and Daniel Einhorn, MD, FACP, FACE of San Diego, CA won this year’s Physician-PA Partnership of the Year Award. I was also inspired by our California colleague, Rachel Starks Farrell, PA-C who was honored at the PAragon awards as the PA Service to the Underserved Award winner. She has been making a tremendous difference in Marysville, CA and her service highlights the best our pro-fession has to offer. I witnessed the excitement from our USC students who attended the dinner and realized what a difference we can make in inspiring our students to recognize the role they can play in serving the underserved.

Our profession’s dedication has finally paid dividends that will reinforce the future of our profession as a solution to the nation’s health care challenges. The milestones that we have accom-plished come from hard work in the classroom and clinics, as well as from those who chose to lead from the clin-ics and from the organizations that speak on our behalf. The front row seats are truly an ideal place to witness the history of our profession.

For two years the CAPA News space provided to the Program Relations Committee has been dedicated to California’s training programs and faculty. For the current issue, I have asked one of California’s newest Physician Assistant educators to speak to issues of increasing importance in PA education. Kevin Lohenry, Ph.D., PA-C, new Program Director at the University of Southern California and current President of the Physician Assistant Education Association, has developed a significant presence in the PA profession and, specifically, PA education at the national level. I believe all PA training programs in California will benefit from the addition of Kevin’s experience and commitment to the profession and to the training of our students. Welcome to California, Kevin, we look forward to working with you.

Michael De Rosa MPH, PhD, PA-CChair, PA Program Relations Committee

Page 7: CAPA News August/September 2011

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 7

This year the California Academy of Physician Assistants celebrates its 35 year anniversary.

CAPA is an organization with rich organizational culture, strong leadership and an exemplary membership of diverse PAs. The beauty of the organization is that members can step up and become leaders of the profession.

Over the last 35 years we have seen a small organization, which started in Fresno, grow into an organization that serves over 4,000 members. Presidents, board members and committee chairs have served, mentored and then seen their protégés serve within the organization. This year, as CAPA celebrates its anniversary, we see a diverse emergence of leadership, not only on the CAPA board, but within the AAPA Delegation and staff.

CAPA has four new board members who are new to CAPA Leadership. Teeming with new ideas, these members have entered CAPA leadership looking to find new ways to serve our membership and the profession. These new members include: AAPA’s 2009 Outstanding PA to the Underserved, Margaret Allen, PA-C; San Diego

Local Group President and CAPA Controlled Substances Education Course lecturer, Jeremy Adler, MS, PA-C; Western University Program Director, Roy Guizado, MS, PA-C and Touro University student, Joy Dugan, PA-S. Their presence brings a breath of fresh air to the board room. Their commitment to diversity, local PA groups and students will be essential in the upcoming year.

Those serving as Delegates to the AAPA HOD have also seen a surge of new faces. Unfortunately, this comes with a departure of experienced members and, most notably, our Chief Delegate, Peter Aronson. Peter is a man of few words, but when he does speak he brings a voice of reason and clarity to the House of Difficult Issues. The addition of the new delegates, Jay Williamson and Jacob Hauptman, will usher in a new era and hopefully result in new relationships which will build policy for the profession for years to come.

This wave of new faces does not stop with elected Board Members, Delegates and Committee Chairs. The CAPA office welcomed a new staff member, Barbara Zorn as the Office Manager. Barbara joined the CAPA team about four months ago

and has been an excellent addition to the staff. In February, CAPA hired a new Public Policy Director, Teresa Anderson, MPH. Teresa has been in Sacramento sitting in on policy meetings and educating important policy makers and elected officials on PAs and their role in the future of California’s health care.

Amongst the new faces highlighted in this article are those who have been serving in CAPA for years. Larry Rosen, Beth Grivett, Bob Miller, Cherri Penne-Myers and Greg Mennie return to their roles within CAPA, continuing the excellent work they have done over the years. Heading this great group of individuals is Eric Glassman who will take on his second year as President with the poise and experience of a seasoned CAPA leader.

As the Chair of the Nominating Committee, I can’t help but look back at the work our current Nominating Committee has done over the past year. I hope the current momentum of leadership continues to build, bringing dedicated, experienced and passionate leaders to CAPA to serve the members for the next 35 years.

A Wave of New Leadership in CAPA’s 35th Yearby Adam Marks, MPA, PA-C, President Elect

Third Edition of the California Physician Assistant’s and Supervising Physician’s Legal Handbook*

M ichael Scarano, Jr., Esq. authored the California Physician Assistant’s and Supervising Physician’s Legal Handbook. Newly updated, it answers scores of questions in a concise, clear fashion, with citations

and appendices that will permit practitioners to read the operative statutes and regulations for themselves. A must have for all California practices employing PAs. Visit the CAPA website at www.capanet.org for more information or to order the book online.

*CAPA Member Price - $34.95 Non Member Price - $54.95

California

Physician Assistant’s

and Supervising Physician’s

Legal Handbook

T H I R D E D I T I O N

C A L I F O R N I A A C A D E M Y O F P H Y S I C I A N A S S I S TA N T S

R. Michael Scarano, Jr.

Foley & Lardner LLP

CAPA General Counsel

Page 8: CAPA News August/September 2011

8 CAPA NEWS

Someone Asked Us ...by Bob Miller, PA-C, Professional Practice Committee Chair

prepackaged by a physician and surgeon, manufacturer as defined in the Pharmacy Law, or a pharmacist.

(2) A physician assistant may not administer, provide, or issue a drug order to a patient for Schedule II through Schedule V controlled substances without advance approval by a supervising physician and surgeon for that particular patient unless the physician assistant has completed an education course ...

CCR, 1399.546. Reporting of Physician Assistant SupervisionExcerpt

Each time a physician assistant provides care for a patient and enters his or her name, signature, initials, or computer code on a patient’s record, chart or written order, the physician assistant shall also enter the name of his or her supervising physician who is responsible for the patient. When a physician assistant transmits an oral order, he or she shall also state the name of the supervising physician responsible for the patient.

CALIFORNIA CODESHEALTH AND SAFETY CODESECTION 11200-11201Excerpt

11200. (a) No person shall dispense or refill a controlled substance prescription more than six months after the date thereof.

(b) No prescription for a Schedule III or IV substance may be refilled more than five times and in an amount, for all refills of that prescription taken together, exceeding a 120-day supply.

(c) No prescription for a Schedule II substance may be refilled.

Questions about obtaining prior approval for controlled substances

Q) How do you document on the medical record that prior approval was obtained for a controlled substances drug order?

A) Although documentation is not required by law or regulation, it would be best practice to provide documentation in some manner. I usually suggest including the documentation in your signature line when you must (see CCR, 1399.546 on this page) also identify the supervising physician (SP). One way is to sign “Your Name, PA, PSA Smith, MD”. Then when the chart is audited years later, someone can explain the “PSA” is our way of documenting prior specific approval was obtained on that occasion. Make sure the office staff/SP knows what PSA stands for or put a note somewhere in the chart/office.

Q) Regarding obtaining advance approval, if my doc is not present, is the law meant to assume that for controlled substances a phone call to my doc be made EVERY time a prescription is provided throughout the clinic day?  

A) Yes, every time, for controlled substances (unless you take and pass the Controlled Substances Course) and/or for any medication not included in your protocol/formulary.

Q) For advance approval, could a list of the day’s patients be generated, and reviewed with the physician in advance?

A) Yes, that would comply with the law because it is both patient

specific and prior approval from the SP for the use of a drug.

Q) Is the medication administration record (MAR) an acceptable place for documenting that prior approval was obtained?

A) Yes, as long as the documentation is somewhere on the medical record. I usually suggest just including it when you sign the record because each time you sign the medical record, you must identify the SP – so it’s easy and clear to write “PSA” linked with the SPs name.

Q) A related question. Can controlled substances be refilled?

A) Refills cannot be given for controlled substances in Schedule II. Schedule III or IV can be refilled up to 5 times in 6 months. (see below)

B&P Code 3502.1. Prescription Transmittal AuthorityExcerpt

(c) A drug order for any patient cared for by the physician assistant that is issued by the physician assistant shall either be based on the protocols described in subdivision (a) or shall be approved by the supervising physician and surgeon before it is filled or carried out.

(1) A physician assistant shall not administer or provide a drug or issue a drug order for a drug other than for a drug listed in the formulary without advance approval from a supervising physician and surgeon for the particular patient. At the direction and under the supervision of a physician and surgeon, a physician assistant may hand to a patient of the supervising physician and surgeon a properly labeled prescription drug

Page 9: CAPA News August/September 2011

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 9

F rom Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia: In general terms,

volunteering is the prac-tice of people working on behalf of others or a particular cause with-

out payment for their time and services. Volunteering is generally considered an altruistic activity, intended to promote good or improve human quality of life.

During the CAPA Conference a few years ago one of our members asked me if I was still working my regular job while working for CAPA. I explained to him that being a CAPA board member or committee member is a volunteer commitment. All of the board and

committee members have their regular jobs and other commitments. The CAPA COO, office staff, legislative advocate, public policy director and attorney are the only individuals who receive payment for their services. CAPA volunteers are reimbursed for their travel, housing and meals while performing CAPA duties. If we were paid for our time, it would add up to quite a bit of money.

We start off the year with our annual retreat where we spend about 12+ hours in meetings planning our goals for the year. We typically have four board meet-ings a year and spend 6+ hours per meet-ing. During the CAPA Conferences we spend several hours assisting in various tasks. These are the typical duties of a

board member, our committee chairs and board officers devote many more hours to CAPA. If we were receiving our typical compensation as PAs, a board member or committee chair would need to be com-pensated $2,000 to $3,000 a year for their work. A board officer would require more compensation.

CAPA volunteer leaders are “paid” by the satisfaction of serving their profession and their fellow California PAs. So, I en-courage you to thank your CAPA leaders the next time you see them. You have a great opportunity to thank them person-ally if you join us at the Annual CAPA Conference, September 22-25 in Palm Springs. See you then!!

ou are quite white, you know” commented a friend. It’s true. I am. But

that doesn’t mean I can’t relate to injustice. In an admittedly limited way, I’m no stranger to prejudice, racism, chauvinism, ageism, and, of course, PA-ism.

Appointing someone who is not a person-of-color to Chair the Diversity Committee is an unusual step and I welcome the opportunity to be part of CAPA’s firm commitment to work-ing together to provide a platform for many different perspectives.

Embracing diversity is about respect, caring, and community – qualities that are epitomized by PAs and the work we do. It is about inclusion, not tokenism. Tokenism tends to promote individual commitment to a specific population group or interest; this is antithetical to our mission to empower all physician assistants

for the benefit of all our patients. Tokens are used as currency when actual money is not available. We are the “money” – real people, from real communities, who join together to serve others and to support each other.

The CAPA Board has set goals and tasks for the Committee, and these include:

* Promoting diverse representation and mentoring for leadership positions within the PA profession and CAPA

* Increasing awareness of cultural diversity issues, and developing and presenting materials to educate practicing PAs and PA students

* Developing mechanisms to increase recruitment and retention of minority applicants to PA Programs.

The diversity of our profession is fundamental to its richness, health

Embracing Diversityby Margaret Allen, PA-C, Committee on Diversity Chair and Director-At-Large

and future. Diversity is crucial to our ability to take care of our patients. Just as we need to show, in our actions as well as our words, that PAs are an educated and valuable part of a team of health care providers, we need to be vigilant about ensuring acceptance of all those who make up our diverse whole.

We have had extraordinary leadership in past years on the Diversity Committee. I hope to continue to bring people together to form a dynamic mix that will support and encourage under-represented cultural and social groups. If you have had experience with discrimination, or have examples of failure to attend to the needs of our minority patients, please contact me. Conversely, tell me about your hopes, dreams, and successes. I’d like to hear, and write about, your stories. With knowledge, comes power, and we hold in our hands the power to change.

“Y

CAPA: The Spirit of Volunteerismby Miguel Medina, PA-C, Past President

Page 10: CAPA News August/September 2011

10 CAPA NEWS

Summer has arrived and that means long days and short nights. The Summer Sol+stice

(Latin for sun + standing still) marks the start of pagan ritualistic bonfires, festivals, and Stonehenge conspiracies. Summer also marks the ritualistic start of the Pre-Participation Evaluation (PPE) process for the hardworking PA. Soon the “cattle-call” of young athletes needing their PPE for sports will be upon us. While there are “guidelines” to this process, there remains a relative level of controversy as to content, requirement and significance of the PPE.

Currently in the US, there is no national standard regarding the thoroughness and necessity for an evaluation even though almost all the states require some evaluation prior to sports participation. I don’t wish to address, in this brief article, the controversy surrounding the effectiveness of the PPE, if ECG’s should be incorporated, or if Italy or other models are more effective1. If you have the opportunity to be involved in the pre-participation evaluation of the young athlete, whether volunteering in a large group setting or within your private practice, I would like to offer a few small pieces of advice on the potential pitfalls of the PPE, and how best to avoid them.

No one is “cleared.” It’s best to not think of the PPE as “clearing” an athlete. We should not be there to clear someone, but rather evaluate their readiness and health for the sport in which they wish to participate. While subtle, I believe this philosophy makes the clinician more in tune to the real needs of the young athlete.

The Los Angeles Unified School District’s (LAUSD) policy goals for the PPE do not include clearance

per se. The policy states “to help maintain the health and safety of the athlete in training and competition.” It then lists three objectives to meet this: 1. Detect conditions that may predispose to injury. 2. Detect conditions that may be life threatening or disabling. 3. Meet legal and insurance requirements.

Providers should consider the PPE a place for the young athlete to be reassured that their health status will allow them to participate in the sport of their choosing, and if not, it’s the place to capture a concern and make an appropriate referral for the benefit of that young man or woman.

Setting does matter. While, the “cattle-call” (multiple volunteers with large amounts of students passing through for evaluation usually set up on school grounds), is not necessarily the best setting for the PPE, given its usual lack of privacy and large PPE participant numbers, it tends to occur frequently.

Most schools have pre-printed forms which have a basic history section with yes and no check boxes and then a cursory physical exam section. Not all of these forms are adequate. There are monographs available that can be downloaded2 and used by practitioners as a “cheat-sheet” or guide to ensure all the right history and physical exam areas are covered. At a minimum, the AHA 12 element guidelines can be brought as a laminated card (see attached cut-out) and used to quickly assess the athlete’s health and his or her form (there are many other areas to consider in the PPE, such as type of sport to be played, enhancement drugs, training, what protective gear is used, prior injuries, and a whole list of other topics unfortunately much too detailed to include in this article).

Not just about sports. For many adolescent patients this may be their only contact with a provider all year or ever, for that matter. The PPE is a good stepping off point to assess overall health needs, as well as anticipatory guidance counseling, and discuss other “HEADDS”/ adolescent interviewing topic areas. During the “cattle-call” PPE, providers should try to utilize this opportunity to focus on at least one other health area/concern. This is also a great opportunity to explain the importance of having yearly “total” health evaluations with a primary care provider.

Other resources: • NCAA sports medicine

handbook online (http://www.ncaapublications.com/p-4203-2010-2011-sports-medicine-handbook.aspx)

• AAP Guidelines for Sports Physicals -(http://aapnews.aappublications.org/cgi/content/citation/31/3/1-a)

• PreParticipation Physical Evaluation (PPE) Monograph 4th Edition

• www.ppesportsevaluation.org/

• www.NCAA.org

References Cited:1. http://circ.ahajournals.org/cgi/content/full/circulationaha;115/12/1643 (Circulation. 2007;115:1643-1655.)

2. http://www.aafp.org/online/en/home/clinical/publichealth/sportsmed/preparticipation-evaluation-forms0.html

Did You Know?by Greg Mennie, PA-C, MSed, Director-At-Large

Page 11: CAPA News August/September 2011

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 11

Did You Know?by Greg Mennie, PA-C, MSed, Director-At-Large

The 12-Element AHA Recommendations forPreparticipation Cardiovascular Screening of Competitive Athletes

Medical history*

Personal history1. Exertional chest pain/discomfort2. Unexplained syncope/near-syncope†3. Excessive exertional and unexplained

dyspnea/fatigue, associated with exercise4. Prior recognition of a heart murmur5. Elevated systemic blood pressure

Family history6. Premature death (sudden and

unexpected, or otherwise) before age 50 years due to heart disease, in 1 relative

7. Disability from heart disease in a close relative 50 years of age

8. Specific knowledge of certain cardiac conditions in family members: hypertrophic or dilated cardiomyopathy, long-QT syndrome or other ion channelopathies, Marfan syndrome, or clinically important arrhythmias

Physical examination9. Heart murmur‡10. Femoral pulses to exclude aortic

coarctation11. Physical stigmata of Marfan syndrome12. Brachial artery blood pressure (sitting

position)§

*Parental verification is recommended for high school and middle school athletes.†Judged not to be neurocardiogenic (vasovagal); of particular concern when related to exertion.‡Auscultation should be performed in both supine and standing positions (or with Valsalva maneuver), specifically to identify murmurs of dynamic left ventricular outflow tract obstruction.§Preferably taken in both arms.

PA in the UK

by Sharon Girard, CAPA Member

In 2008 I moved to England to live for two years and practice as a physician assistant. England had been recruiting U.S. PAs for a few years as interim

providers until they could educate enough of their own to fill their ranks. Before going, I tried very hard to research everything I could about the NHS and the British medical system. When researching this decision, I found very little information about life as an expat, especially in the UK, so I decided to keep a blog about my travels and experiences.

I love to travel and knew England would be a great launching site for travels far and wide. My partner and I decided to marry and start our new life together overseas. He is a painter and could work anywhere. I quit a wonderful job in a local emergency department and headed off across the pond.

Here is an excerpt from the blog:

“Now for some updates about medical practice in the UK.

1. Podiatrists can’t prescribe medication2. Dentists can’t prescribe narcotics

These rules stem from the fact that GPs are considered “gatekeepers” (flashes of the 80s), and thus want all patients referred back to them so they can keep track of all their medications and monitor their care. So, when a patient has dental work or sees a podiatrist, we often still see the patient to write their prescriptions. I also learned that I have to change the way I dictate referral letters. Starting off with “please” sounds demanding, the preferred introductory line is “Thank you very much for seeing this patient....” We must not be too demanding or instructive to consultants. The word “orders” are never used in British medicine. There are no “LAB ORDERS” only “LAB REQUESTS.”

I wrote a book to help shed some light on the very interesting but different NHS. Because of our healthcare reform crisis, Americans can learn a lot from the British. The book is filled with the angst of the expat adjustment and our many travels around the world during our whirlwind year abroad. I moved back to California last year but I will always cherish the experience I had as “a PA in the UK.”

At the CAPA Conference, Sharon Girard will be in the Exhibit Hall signing her book on September 23 & 24, 2011.

The 12-Element AHA Recommendations are reprinted with permission. Barry J. Maron, Paul D. Thompson, Michael J. Ackerman, Gary Balady, Stuart Berger, David Cohen, Robert Dimeff, Pamela S. Douglas, David W. Glover, Adolph M. Hutter, Jr, Michael D. Krauss, Martin S. Maron, Matthew J. Mitten, William O. Roberts, James C. Puffer; Recommendations and Considerations Related to Preparticipation Screening for Cardiovascular Abnormalities in Competitive Athletes: 2007 Update. A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association Council on Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Metabolism. Endorsed by the American College of Cardiology Foundation; Circulation, Journal of the American Heart Association, published online March 12, 2007; p. 1646

Page 12: CAPA News August/September 2011

12 | CAPA’S 35TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE

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I t’s that time once again and the CAPA PAC is getting geared up for the 35th Annual CAPA Conference in Palm Springs, September 22-25, 2011. The CAPA PAC has a booth each year in the Exhibit Hall where

we have an opportunity to meet PAs face-to-face and have a lot of fun with the CAPA PAC Spin Wheel! Let’s not forget this is also where we hold our Annual Silent Auction.

Over the last few years, we have been fortunate to have many PAs donate items to the Silent Auction. So again, we are asking for donations. Donations can be textbooks, review books, services (i.e., such as derm services, a hot bidding item), and rounds of golf. The Silent Auction will be held starting on Friday when the Exhibit Hall opens through closing of Exhibit Hall on Saturday. So, there will be lots of opportunities to make your bids.

Another way you can support the CAPA PAC at the Conference is by purchasing your PA Program fan to be used while supporting your school during the Student Medical Challenge Bowl on Saturday afternoon. Stay cool at the pool while supporting your Program’s team!

We thank all PAs who have donated to the CAPA PAC so far this year. We appreciate your donations. Should you have any donations for the Silent Auction, please contact the CAPA office and they will guide you through the donation process. I look forward to seeing everyone at the CAPA Conference in Palm Springs.

CAPA PAC IS HEADING TO PALM SPRINGS

Tom Gaughn, PA-C and Beth Grivett, PA-C help raise funds for the CAPA PAC at the annual conference

by Cherri Penne-Myers, PA-C, MSCS, Political Action Committee Chair and Secretary

Would You Like to Help Raise CAPA PAC Funds?Would you like to serve on the CAPA PAC Fundraising Committee? This is the group who plans the fundraising activities and helps to execute them at CAPA Conferences. Do you have an idea that may help to fill the CAPA Political Action Committee coffers and open doors for California PAs? Let us know if you want to help. We would love to speak with

you. You may email us at [email protected] or call the CAPA office at (714) 427-0321.

CAPA’s

Political Action Committee

Yes, I Want to Do My Part for the PA Profession in California (Donate online at www.capanet.org or mail this form to the CAPA office.)

Name ______________________________________________________________________________

Address _____________________ City___________________________State______ Zip __________

Phone ___________________________ Email ____________________________________________

Amount of cash/check/credit card donation: $ __________________

If donation is $100 or more, please list employer ___________________________________________________________________

Please make checks payable to CAPA PAC. You may also pay by credit card. All contributions are voluntary. PAC ID # 981553

Exp. Date__________

Signature _________________________________________________________________________ CVV# _________________

$25.00 $50.00 $100.00 $200.00 $ ___________

Page 13: CAPA News August/September 2011

REGISTER ONLINE AT WWW.CAPANET.ORG | 13

Help Her Leap From Hospital Bed to Ballroom

BE THE MATCHNational Marrow Donor Registry

www.marrow.org

Every year, more than 10,000 patients are diagnosed with diseases that require bone marrow transplants. Only half receive them.

Be a bone marrow donor at CAPA’s 35th Annual Conference in Palm Springs. Sign-up stations will be in the Exhibit Hall and in the registration area, Friday and Saturday, September 23th and 24th.

For those members unable to attend the Conference, bone marrow donation can be done online. Go to www.marrow.org. Follow the tab to JOIN the Be The Match Registry. Individuals will be filling out a consent form online and a swab kit will be mailed directly to you. Please enter this unique promo code when prompted: “capa.” Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact Shelley Baker at [email protected].

Life is precious. It is a wonderful gift to give.

Thank you.

Be the one to save a life

“Bring Books For Kids”

21 million Americans can’t read at all, 45 million are marginally illiterate and one-fifth of high school graduates can’t read their diplomas. 

CAPA is organizing a state-wide effort to encourage children to read. PA students will deliver free books to elementary school kids and participate in reading programs about the human body and other health related topics. But we need books!

All of us have children’s books at home that are sitting unused on shelves or in boxes in the garage. Please, bring them to the CAPA Conference in Palm Springs, September 22-25, 2011 for needy children who will joyfully receive them. Science books, health books, history books, story books… old, new, used … any and all books your children and grandchildren enjoyed reading. All books are welcome. And each book will carry the label “Donated By a California Physician Assistant.”

Help us promote health literacy and Bring Books For Kids.

Open the world of imagination and discovery for needy kids. You’ll feel really good about doing it and the children will love them.

Thank you

TWO SPECIAL OPPORTUNITIES TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE AT THE CAPA CONFERENCEby Larry Rosen, PA-C, CAPA Public Relations Chair

Page 14: CAPA News August/September 2011

14 | CAPA’S 35TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE

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... PArty At The Pool – 5:00 PM - Saturday

We are taking it up a notch this year. Just in case you don’t get enough dancing and music on Friday night at the CAPA Dance and American PA Idol Competition, we have more fun in store on the pool deck on Saturday afternoon –a live band with PA, Greg Mennie on drums!

Taxi Wisdom - We Have Been Trying To Book Them For Years!

Taxi Wisdom is a local touring variety cover band. The band formed in 2003 during a recording session at a studio in North Hollywood, when the bassist and drummer thought they played so well together that the only logical conclusion was to form their own group. After a month of auditions for other musicians the recipe was complete. Take 2 European pop stars, 2 over-achieving guitarists from the East Coast, add 1 phenomenal (and lovely) female vocalist, and 1 schooled, ex-military, physician assistant vision-oriented drummer and you have Taxi Wisdom. The current line up consists of 5 musicians with extensive teaching, recording, television, film, and touring experience: Charissa Nicole - Lead vocals, Andrew Campbell - Lead guitar, Moose McMains - Bass and vocals, Jim McMains - Keyboards and vocals, and Greg Mennie - Drums, percussion and vocals.

Our special thanks to Greg Mennie, PA-C and the band for making this performance at the

CAPA Conference possible.

www.taxiwisdom.com

The Conference program and activities are subject to change without notice.

FUN IN PALM SPRINGS

Friday Evening at the CAPA Conference9:00 P.M.The Dance and American PA Idol Competition

The nightclubs of Palm Springs can’t compete with the PA PArty of the Year. It is the place to be on Friday night. We transform the beautiful lobby of the Convention Center into PArty Central with music that will please everyone. At 10:00 p.m. our American PA Idol show begins. The PArty continues as PAs compete and the audience votes to name the next American PA Idol. The Dance and American PA Idol Competition are included with your registration and guests are welcome to attend at no charge. There will be a cash bar. This really is an event you won’t want to miss!

APPLICATION (Deadline September 16, 2011)

Name __________________________________

Address ________________________________

City ___________________ St ___ Zip ________

I will be performing: solo as a duet as a group of _________

Which category best describes your style of singing?

Pop/Top 40 Rock Country Western

Rhythm and Blues Gospel Easy Listening

Rap/Hip Hop Jazz Show Tunes ____________________________________

Title of songs (please choose 3) you would like to sing:

1) ____________________________________

2) ____________________________________

3) ____________________________________

Would you say that your voice is (don’t be modest):

Absolute perfection!

Everyone tells me I have a great voice

Just okay

Not that great, but I love to sing & get a crowd going

Sign Up for IdolToday!

Page 15: CAPA News August/September 2011

REGISTER ONLINE AT WWW.CAPANET.ORG | 15

KEYNOTE LUNCHEONFriday, September 23, 2011

We are thrilled and honored to have CAPA’s Founding President, Rod Moser, PA, Ph.D. with us to celebrate CAPA’s 35th Anniversary. For

the Keynote Luncheon address, Rod shares the stage with Herb Schultz, Regional Director, Region IX, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. These two visionaries will share their experiences and insights and inspire us all to never let apparent barriers keep us from our goals.

Rod Moser is the Father of CAPA, a valued advisor and a favorite speaker. He practices in pediatrics and writes a very entertaining (and educational) blog on WebMD. You can find it at: http://blogs.webmd.com/all-ears

Herb Schultz was a senior advisor to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and the man charged with ensuring California gets its fair share of federal stimulus funds. He has since become Regional Director, Region IX of the U.S. Department of Health & Human

Services. Mr. Schultz is now part of the federal administration implementing the recently enacted national health care overhaul.

Don’t miss this special luncheon presentation on Friday beginning at 12:50 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom at the Renaissance Hotel, Palm Springs.

Has It Been 35 Years Already?Rod Moser, PA, Ph.D.CAPA Founding President, 1976

PAs and Healthcare: A Look at the FutureHerb Schultz, Regional Director, Region IXU.S. Department of Health & Human Services

Pain Track:Friday, 9/23/119:05 a.m. – 10:05 a.m. Pathophysiology of Pain

10:10 a.m. – 11:10 a.m.Pain Management: Patient – PA Relationship

1:55 p.m. – 2:55 p.m. Treatment of Pain

4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.Assessment of Pain

Pediatrics Track:Friday, 9/23/1110:10 a.m. – 11:10 a.m. Pedia “Tricks”

1:55 p.m. – 2:55 p.m. The Drama and Trauma of Pediatric Sports Medicine

Saturday, 9/24/113:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. Pediatric Rashes

A Special Thank You!The 2011 CAPA Conference program is one of our best and most diverse. This year’s confer-ence offers something for everyone. We are excited to bring you all that makes the CAPA Conference so unique, educational and fun. Special thanks to those who have and who will make it all happen in Palm Springs on September 22-25, 2011.

CME Committee Members:Chair - Eric Glassman, MHS, PA-C

Jennifer Baltazar, PA-S

Jennifer Carlquist, PA-C

Christopher Clark, MPA, PA-C

Shelby Edwards, PA-C, MPAS

Matthew Keane, MPAS, PA-C

Michelle Lim Serrao, PA-C

Timothy Wood, MS, PA-C

Conference Planning Committee Members:Chair - Timothy Wood, MS, PA-C

Tracey DelNero, PA-C

Shelby Edwards, PA-C, MPAS

Sharon Girard, PA-C

Eric Glassman, MHS, PA-C

Ghina Katrib, PA-C

Amber Klispie, PA-C

Tam Le, PA-C

Daniel Lowery, PA-C

Elizabeth Maugh, PA-C

Marsha Teague Grinstead, PA-C

Colleen Wight, PA-C

Timothy Wood, MS, PA-C

New This Year: Pain and Pediatrics Tracks

Page 16: CAPA News August/September 2011

ACLS Recertification

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) RecertificationThursday, September 22, 2011 – 1:00 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.Those registering for ACLS Recertification will not be able to attend Session 2 workshops on Thursday. Absolutely no refunds will be given after September 1, 2011.

ACLS Recertification (4 hours Cat I CME) $165

THURSDAY SESSIONS – September 22, 2011

Session 1 – 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Step-by-Step...Reading Chest X-Rays (2 hours Cat I CME) $65 Basic Suturing (2 hours Cat I CME) $65 Heart Sounds (2 hours Cat I CME) $65

Session 2 – 1:10 p.m. to 3:10 p.m. Minor Surgical Procedures (2 hours Cat I CME) $65 Clinical EKG: A Case Study Exploration (2 hours Cat I CME) $65 Secrets of Splinting (2 hours Cat I CME) $65

SATURDAY SESSIONS – September 24, 2011

Session 3 – 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Orthopedic Exam (2 hours Cat I CME) $65 Basic Suturing (2 hours Cat I CME) $65 Joint Injection (2 hours Cat I CME) $65

Session 4 – 3:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. Orthopedic Exam (2 hours Cat I CME) $65 Basic Neurologic Examination (2 hours Cat I CME) $65 Joint Injection (2 hours Cat I CME) $65

REGISTRATION INFORMATION - Please Print

Due to minimum attendance requirements, all workshops are subject to cancellation.

Please fill out and include with your general conference registration form. Please include a separate check so it can be returned if one or more of the workshops you select are full. Your credit card will be charged for only those workshops that are open at the time you register.

NAME

CHECK ONE: PA-C PA PA-S OTHER ____________________________________________________________

DAYTIME PHONE FAX NUMBER EMAIL ADDRESS

PAYMENT INFORMATION

Please register me for the selected workshops.

Total Amount Enclosed: $ ______________________________

Check enclosed (make check payable to CAPA)

Visa MasterCard

CREDIT CARD NUMBER

SIGNATURE

CVV# EXP. DATE

Optional Workshops Registration Form

If you have any questions regarding the program or registration, please call CAPA at (714) 427-0321. For the latest conference information or to register on-line visit www.capanet.org.

Early RegistrationPlease note the date for early registration. You are encouraged to register by September 12th (Basic Course CAPA member price $370). By doing so you will save $35. After September 12th the Basic Course CAPA member price is $405. If you register after August 29th, Basic Course registration for a CAPA mem-ber will be $425. As you can see, the sooner you register the more you will save. The CAPA office will strictly observe the late registration prices and will charge the appropriate fees on the date you register.

Guest RegistrationThe Renaissance and the Hilton will allow your guest(s) to stay in your room at no additional charge unless you need an additional bed placed in the room (e.g., crib or rollaway). If you would like your guest to be able to visit the exhibit hall, you may pay the Exhibit Hall Only price of $25 and a badge will be prepared for that person that will allow them entry to the Exhibit Hall only. If you would like your guest to be able to join you for up to 6 conference meals and the Exhibit Hall, you may pay the Guest Registration price of $120 and a badge will be prepared that will

allow your guest to join you for those events. Guest registration does not include CME credit.

Workshop RegistrationWorkshop registration requires a separate fee and a separate registration form (see below). All workshop assignments are made on a first-come-first-serve basis, based on availability and are not refundable. Workshops do fill up quickly. You may pay by personal check or with a credit card. If paying by check, please enclose a separate check for the appropriate workshop amount. Complying with this request ensures that your workshop check will be returned should any of the workshops you choose be full. If you are paying by credit card, you will only be charged for those workshops that are open at the time of registration.

Out of State PAsThe CAPA Conference is a great place to network. We look forward to welcoming you to Palm Springs. If you are a member of your state PA association, you may register for the CAPA Conference at the member price.

Student RegistrationFor those who are currently enrolled in a primary care PA program. Or, if you graduated from PA school at any time during 2011, you may register at the student price.

REGISTRATION INFO & WORKSHOP REGISTRATION

Page 17: CAPA News August/September 2011

BASIC COURSE – Save $35 by Registering by September 12th!

$370* – Basic Course (20 Hrs. Cat. I CME) $260* – PA Student Basic Course (20 Hrs. Cat. I CME)* ADD $35, if registration & payment are received after Monday, September 12th, 2011

ADD $55, if registration & payment are received after Monday, August 29th, 2011

ONE DAY – Save $35 by Registering by September 12th!

$135* – Thursday Only (6 Hrs. Cat. I CME) $120* – Friday Only (5 Hrs. Cat. I CME) $135* – Saturday Only (6 Hrs. Cat. I CME) $70* – Sunday Only (3 Hrs. Cat. I CME)

$90* – PA Student Thursday Only (6 Hrs. Cat. I CME) $80* – PA Student Friday Only (5 Hrs. Cat. I CME) $90* – PA Student Saturday Only (6 Hrs. Cat. I CME) $45* – PA Student Sunday Only (3 Hrs. Cat. I CME)* ADD $35, if registration & payment are received after Monday, September 12th, 2011

ADD $55, if registration & payment are received after Monday, August 29th, 2011

GUEST REGISTRATION - Must be over 18 years of age

$120 – Guest - Meals & Exhibit Hall(Includes 6 conference meals; 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, access to the Exhibit Hall, The Dance, American PA Idol and CAPA Student Medical Challenge Bowl)

Guest Name __________________________________________________________________________________________

$25 – Guest - Exhibit Hall Only(Access to the Exhibit Hall only)

Guest Name __________________________________________________________________________________________

NON-MEMBER REGISTRATION - California PAs & Students

If you are not a CAPA member and are a California PA or PA student, you must select one of the non-member registration options below.

Add $100 – CAPA Non-Member Graduate(Includes CAPA Membership through 4/30/12)

Add $10 – CAPA Non-Member Student(Includes CAPA Membership through 4/30/12)

CONFERENCE SPECIAL INTEREST NETWORKING

A Chance to Meet and Greet Like-Minded PAsInterested in meeting/networking with other PAs in one of the following groups? Mark one of the boxes below and we will make sure that your conference badge identifies your interest. We will also have tables set aside for each group at meal functions so you can sit with those who share your interest/experience.

Please select one only:

PA Entrepreneurs PAs in practice for over 25 years (lovingly known as the Dinos)

First-time CAPA Conference attendees/new CAPA members

GENERAL INFORMATION

Included with Basic Course: Conference meals, Friday Night Dance PArty, Exhibit Hall and Student Challenge Bowl. Registration badges are required for all events except the Friday Night Dance PArty and the Student Challenge Bowl.

Vegetarian Meals Requested

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, please check here if you have any special needs. You will be contacted by CAPA.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION - Please print clearly

FIRST NAME LAST NAME

CHECK ONE: PA-C PA PA-S OTHER __________________________________________________________________________

PA LICENSE #

HOME ADDRESS

HOME CITY STATE ZIP

COMPANY NAME

COMPANY STREET ADDRESS

COMPANY CITY STATE ZIP

HOME PHONE WORK PHONE

MOBILE PHONE EMAIL ADDRESS

PA PROGRAM GRADUATION DATE

PAYMENT INFORMATION

Basic Course: $ ____________________

After September 12, 2011*: $ ____________________ *ADD $35 if registration & payment are postmarked/faxed/emailed after 8/8/11 or ADD $55 if registration & payment are postmarked/ faxed/emailed after 8/29/11

One Day: $ ____________________

After September 12, 2011*: $ ____________________ *ADD $35 if registration & payment are postmarked/faxed/emailed after 8/8/11 or ADD $55 if registration & payment are postmarked/ faxed/emailed after 8/29/11

Guest Registration: $ ____________________

Non-Member Registration: $ ____________________ I paid the non-member price and do not wish to be a CAPA member

Total Amount Enclosed: $ _____________________

CAPA PAC Donation Please mark this box if you do not wish to have $20 of your CAPA Conference Basic Course registration fees donated to CAPA PAC ID #981553.

Check enclosed (make check payable to CAPA)

Visa MasterCard CVV# _________________________

CREDIT CARD NUMBER EXP. DATE

Billing Address for the card above is: Home Company

NAME AS IT APPEARS ON CARD SIGNATURE

Phone or fax registration: MasterCard or Visa only: Phone (714) 427-0321, Toll Free Fax: (800) 480-CAPA (2272). To avoid duplicate charges, please do not mail the original registration form if you have faxed it or emailed it to the CAPA office. Mail registration form and make checks payable to: CAPA, 3100 W. Warner Avenue, Suite 3, Santa Ana, CA 92704.

2011 CAPA CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FORM Up to 6 MealsIncluded

Page 18: CAPA News August/September 2011

Controlled Substances Education Course(Meets requirements pursuant to California Code of Regulations Sections: 1399.541(h), 1399.610 and 1399.612)

AB 3 was signed by the Governor and became law on January 1, 2008 creating the California Physician Team Practice Improvement Act. In part, AB 3 authorized a PA to administer, provide, or issue a drug order for Schedule II through V controlled substances without patient specific

approval if the PA completes specified educational requirements and if his/her supervising physician delegates the author-ity to them. PAs completing this course and passing the post test will meet those educational requirements as defined in the above regulations.

Program (Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. Course begins promptly at 10:00 a.m. )

Andrew Lowe, PharmD

10:00 a.m. Federal and state laws and regulations pertaining to the provision, administration and furnishing of controlled substances. The use of secure drug order forms.

11:00 a.m. Comparison of efficacy data and safety profiles which influence the selection, usage, conversion and clinical rationale for the use of pharmacological agents.

11:30 a.m. 10 Minute Break

Noon Other uses for controlled substances

1:00 p.m. Lunch presentation - New Perspective for Moderate to Severe Acute Pain Relief: A Focus on Efficacy and Tolerability

This lunch program is not part of the Course. It is a separate, non CME program sponsored by Johnson & Johnson.

2:00 p.m. Disorders routinely requiring a therapeutic regimen of controlled substances for clinical management.

2:30 p.m. Controlled substance’s potential for abuse and addiction, its psychosocial aspects, the recognition of the symptoms (including controlled substance-seeking behaviors).

3:30 p.m. Break

Jeremy Adler, MS, PA-C

3:45 p.m. The legal and professional relationship between a physician assistant and the supervising physician. Charting requirements.

4:15 p.m. Recognition, prevention and management of acute and chronic pain.

Evaluation of the response and compliance of the patient to the controlled substances.

4:45 p.m. Provision of appropriate patient education regarding controlled substances.

5:00 p.m. Post Test

Name ___________________________________________________________________________ PA-C PA Other ____________________ PA License # _______________________________________

Address _____________________________________________________________________________City __________________________________________ State__________Zip Code __________________________________

Phone (________) __________________________________________________________________Email _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Work Address ____________________________________________________________________City __________________________________________ State__________Zip Code __________________________________

Work Phone (________) __________________________________________________________________________Work Fax (________) ____________________________________________________________________________

CAPA Member - $110 Non CAPA Member - $200

Late Registration Fee after September 14, 2011 - Add $20 Total Amount Due: $ ______________________________________

Check enclosed (make check payable to CAPA)

CVV# _________________________________

Name on Card _______________________________________________________________ Signature ______________________________________________________________________Exp. Date ____________________

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, please check here if you have any special needs. You will be contacted by CAPA.

Mail completed Registration Form and make checks payable to: California Academy of Physician Assistants, 3100 W. Warner Ave., Suite 3, Santa Ana, CA 92704-5331. Phone: (714) 427-0321 . Fax: (714) 427-0324 . Toll Free Fax: (800) 480-2272

Controlled Substances Education Course Registration Form - Wednesday, 9/21/11

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES EDUCATION COURSE

6 Hours Cat. ICME

The planners and sponsors reserve the right to change speakers and/or cancel the course without penalty.

Page 19: CAPA News August/September 2011

Name ___________________________________________________________________________ PA-C PA Other ____________________ PA License # _______________________________________

Address _____________________________________________________________________________City __________________________________________ State__________Zip Code __________________________________

Phone (________) __________________________________________________________________Email _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Work Address ____________________________________________________________________City __________________________________________ State__________Zip Code __________________________________

Work Phone (________) __________________________________________________________________________Work Fax (________) ____________________________________________________________________________

CAPA Member - $200 Non CAPA Member - $350 CAPA Student Member - $100

Late Registration Fee after September 14, 2011 - Add $20 Total Amount Due: $ ______________________________________

Check enclosed (make check payable to CAPA)

CVV# _________________________________

Name on Card _______________________________________________________________ Signature ______________________________________________________________________Exp. Date ____________________

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, please check here if you have any special needs. You will be contacted by CAPA.

Mail completed Registration Form and make checks payable to: California Academy of Physician Assistants, 3100 W. Warner Ave., Suite 3, Santa Ana, CA 92704-5331. Phone: (714) 427-0321 . Fax: (714) 427-0324 . Toll Free Fax: (800) 480-2272

Demystifying Emergency Medicine Course Registration Form - Wednesday, 9/21/11

DEMYSTIFYING EMERGENCY MEDICINE COURSE

6 Hours Cat. ICME

CAPA reserves the right to cancel this course without penalty. Registration fees will be refunded if the course is canceled.

Demystifying Emergency Medicine CourseSeptember 21, 201110 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.Renaissance Palm Springs, CaliforniaPrior to the 2011 CAPA Conference

This course is designed to cover diagnostics and therapeutics of the major causes of patients presenting with acute problems, from chest pain/shortness of breath to the more fast-track like complaints, such as a pediatric fever, wound care or orthopedics. The pearls of resuscitation will also be covered as well as key diagnostic principles in reviewing radiographs, EKGs, and

laboratory values to include ABGs.

Out of State PAs: If you are a member of your state PA association, you may register for the course at the CAPA member price. Non-PA Providers: If you are not a PA, (i.e., NP, MD, DO) you may register for the course at the CAPA member price. 

Program (Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. Course begins promptly at 10:00 a.m. )

John Bielinski Jr., MS, PA-C

10:00 a.m. Laboratory Medicine and Clinical Application

11:30 a.m. 10 Minute Break

11:40 a.m. Pulmonary Medicine and CXR Interpretation

1:00 p.m. Lunch presentation - New Perspective for Moderate to Severe Acute Pain Relief: A Focus on Efficacy and Tolerability

This lunch program is not part of the Course. It is a separate, non CME program sponsored by Johnson & Johnson.

2:00 p.m. Chest Pain and EKG/ECG Interpretation3:30 p.m. Break

3:40 p.m. Common Emergency Medicine Complaints

John Bielinski, Jr. MS, PA-C

Page 20: CAPA News August/September 2011

20 CAPA NEWS

CAPA FACTDid You Know?

In 2011, CAPA called together two focus groups, both facilitated by Micah Weinberg, Ph.D. (then with New America Foundation). The first group focused on PAs in innovative practice and the second with newly graduated PAs.

A Look ForwardBy Anthony Gauthier, PA-C, ATC, Public Relations Committee Member

Should all applicants be required to have a defined number of hands-on clinical hours?

Should there be uniformity in the requirements and prerequisites needed to apply to PA programs?

Are California PA programs providing adequate preparation for employment and future success?

Would a mandatory one-year residency upon completion of PA school produce more qualified clinicians? With so many new graduates going straight into a sub-specialty (Orthopedics, Cardiothoracic, etc.), will they be able to successfully pass the PANRE?

Are PAs placing themselves in autonomous positions that could result in malfeasance to their patients?

I am willing to bet that as you read over the questions your mind was quick to formulate your standpoint. For some of the questions posed, there is no correct answer and the group was divided in their opinions. The group was in consensus to oppose requirements that would require further training prior to being able to begin working as a PA. Overall, a variety of opinions and ideas where discussed and presented. The focus group was an educational experience for all parties involved. I enjoyed being able to interact and listen to stories of experiences from my peers. CAPA was able to obtain valuable insight into the opinions of those new to the profession, understanding that those of us who have recently graduated are the future of the profession.

H ave you ever sat down to contemplate the future of the PA profession?

Depending on what point you are in your career, you may have. As a PA student the furthest into the future I focused on was passing the PANCE and seeking employment, and even those tasks felt light-years away.

Many of us tend to focus on the current events or the next step of the journey. Rarely do we sit back and look at the bigger picture. As I currently get settled into my career as a PA, I begin to consider what the future holds for our profession.

More importantly, what does the future hold for those of us practicing in California? What plans are in place and what regulations need to be improved upon for PAs to thrive and be successful in this state?

What if you had the chance to not only sit and think about the future of the profession but provide suggestions based on previous experiences?

On June 12th, a small group of PA colleagues including myself did just that.

Each member of the group took a unique journey to becoming a PA. I believe that diversity is what makes the PA profession great. My journey began with a background in sports medicine, becoming a Certified Athletic Trainer. I built off of that foundation and proceeded to PA school. Currently, I enjoy working as a PA in the field of orthopedics.

The group’s objective: to provide CAPA insight into the opinions of those relatively new to the profession. Are new graduates swimming at a record setting pace or struggling to stay afloat?

A wide variety of thought-provoking topics were discussed over the course of the afternoon, some more influential than others. All topics ignited a firestorm of dialogue. But, who doesn’t like a heated discussion?

Some of the topics discussed included:

What are the influencing factors which draw people to pursuing the PA profession?

How does one decide which PA program to attend?

Page 21: CAPA News August/September 2011

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 21

CAPA Welcomes Facey Medical Group As PArtners in Medicineby Larry Rosen, PA-C, Public Relations Committee Chair and Director-At-Large

A little over a year ago, a PA graduate and CAPA member answered a job

offering at Facey Medical Group in Mission Hills and was passed over. Facey had hired nurse practitioners in the past but they had never hired a physician assistant. Simply stated, very few of their physicians were familiar with the physician/physician assistant team practice model. When we heard of it, CAPA contacted Facey’s Administrative Director of Operations who was eager to assist us in arranging an educational program for her physicians and staff.

One of the frustrations of doing our “Doc-to-Doc” events is never quite knowing how effective we have been. In a perfect world, our wish is that physicians will

leave our program, educated and inspired, and start hiring PAs.

Last April, I wrote an article about the Facey event. In it, I said…

The questions were probing and insightful. This was not a group of people who had come for the Filet Mignon and Baked Alaska. Pervasive was a genuine interest in raising their awareness about a medical professional with which they were unfamiliar. The meeting lasted more than two hours. We were confident that they got what they came for.

CAPA is happy to report that last week, Facey Medical Group hired their first family practice physician assistant; Liliana Guadron-Hernandez, PA-C, Drew University. We take no credit for

Liliana’s hiring. That was a product of what she brought to the table. Apparently, it was substantial.

But all of us who were at the Facey meeting on April 15, 2010, are standing a little taller today. Maybe what we and our physician speakers accomplished that day helped open up the medical group to physician/physician assistant team practice. And if that’s true, then maybe our efforts contributed something to helping Liliana become the first PA hired. Our pride may be showing a bit and we make no apologies for it.

CAPA congratulates Liliana Guadron-Hernandez, PA-C and the Facey Medical Group and extends its warmest wishes for a long and fruitful alliance for the benefit of their mutual patients.

Controlled Substances Education Course

Sunday, February 26, 201210:00 am - 5:45 pm

Napa Valley Marriott | 3425 Solano Avenue | Napa, CA 94558

For additional information contact CAPA at: (714) 427-0321 or Fax at: (714) 427-0324

CAPA at NapaOne-Day Conference

in Napa at the Napa Valley 6 HoursCat. 1CME

Saturday, February 25, 20128:45 am - 5:00 pm

Join us in Napa. We have developed an excellent educational program set in the beautiful, lush green Napa Valley and offer it to you at a very reasonable price. CAPA is coming to Napa and you won’t want to miss it!

Napa Valley Marriott | 3425 Solano Avenue | Napa, CA 94558

For additional information contact CAPA at: (714) 427-0321 or Fax at: (714) 427-0324

6 Hours

Cat. ICME

Page 22: CAPA News August/September 2011

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 23

Implementing the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) privacy and security requirements has been a challeng-

ing endeavor for healthcare organizations. Many years later, the task is still complicated by myths and misinterpretations about the law and its related regulations.

The source of the myths and confusion isn’t always clear, but it seems to come from zealous privacy advocates, providers’ legal advisors who warn of legal consequences and lawsuits, and vendors eager to sell their “HIPAA-compliant” products. Today, the myths may persist because case law and precedent have been hard to come by: There simply hasn’t been a lot of actual legal enforcement of the HIPAA regulations.

Here are three of the most common HIPAA myths:

Myth #1: A healthcare provider may not discuss a patient’s condition or care with a family member.

Myth dispelled: Not true. In fact, the HIPAA Privacy Rule at 45 CFR 164.510(b) specifically permits a healthcare provider to share information that’s directly relevant to the involvement of a spouse, family mem-bers, friends, or other persons identified by a patient,

in the patient’s care or payment for health care.— if the patient agrees or, when given the opportu-

nity, does not object.

— if the provider can reasonably infer, based on pro-fessional judgment, that the patient does not object.

This means that, for example, if the patient is inca-pacitated, a provider may share this information with the person when, in exercising professional judg-ment, they determine that doing so would be in the best interest of the patient.

Myth #2: A healthcare provider can’t disclose a pa-tient’s data to another healthcare provider without a patient authorization.

Myth dispelled: Not true. A healthcare provider may dis-close protected health information for treatment activ-ities of a healthcare provider without an authorization.

— The provider is required to verify the identity of the person requesting information.

— If the identity of the person isn’t known to the health care provider, then they must ascertain the authority of such person to have access to the information.

A provider may rely on documentation, statement, or representation that meets the requirement if it’s reasonable.

Myth #3: Your patients must sign the HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices.

Myth dispelled: A provider must provide the notice and make a good faith effort to obtain a written ac-knowledgment of the patient’s receipt of the notice. If the acknowledgment isn’t obtained, the provider must document his or her efforts to obtain it.

This risk management information was provided by Healthcare Providers Service Organization (HPSO), the #1 provider of professional liability insurance for over 1 million health care professionals, and is now offering the same quality coverage, financial strength and level of service to Physician Assistants. The professional li-ability insurance policy is administered through HPSO and underwritten by American Casualty Company of Reading, Pennsylvania, a CNA company. Reproduction without permission of the publisher is prohibited. For questions, send an email to [email protected] or call 1-800-982-9491. www.hpso.com.

Individualprofessional liabilitycoverage atcompetitive rates.

You’re “on-call” 24/7. Make sure your malpractice coverage is too.

Physician Assistant Professional Liability Insurance 888.273.4686 | www.hpso.com/cnews

This program is underwritten by American Casualty Company of Reading, Pennsylvania, a CNA company, and is offered through the Healthcare Providers Service Organization Purchasing Group. Coverages, rates and limits may differ or may not beavailable in all states. All products and services are subject to change without notice. This material is for illustrative purposes only and is not a contract. It is intended to provide a general overview of the products and services offered. Only the policycan provide the actual terms, coverages, amounts, conditions and exclusions. CNA is a registered trademark of CNA Financial Corporation. Copyright © 2011 CNA. All rights reserved.Healthcare Providers Service Organization is a division of Affinity Insurance Services, Inc.; in CA (License #0795465), MN and OK, AIS Affinity Insurance Agency, Inc.; and in NY, AIS Affinity Insurance Agency. ©2011 Affinity Insurance Services, Inc. CAPA0111A

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Students Students Students Students Students Students

24 CAPA NEWS

A s Chair of the Student Affairs Committee at CAPA, it is fitting to present some “pearls

of wisdom” that will help students succeed in the clinical portion of their education. The following advice has been gathered through personal experiences with students and other preceptors, and they apply to all students. Most are common sense pearls, but some students may find they need to dive a bit deeper to attain certain ones.

Be EarlyBeing on time to a rotation is an expected work ethic, but this alone is not good enough anymore. You should plan on arriving ten to fifteen minutes early to prepare. It is usually permissible to review patient charts scheduled for appointments that day. This time can also be used to review lab results and prepare a possible follow-up plan for the preceptor. Similarly, you can use the time to review medication refill requests as allowed by each preceptor.

Being early gives the preceptor a sense of a student’s willingness to learn and help which preceptors remember, acknowledge and appreciate.

Dress AppropriatelyAttire conveys important non-verbal information about the student. Clothing and the white coat should be cleaned, pressed, and stain free. Longer hair should be pulled back and out of the face to avoid contaminating sterile/clean fields when performing procedures, such as suturing. Men should shave and/or trim facial hair before each rotation shift and should not present

to the preceptor with a five o’clock shadow.

Jewelry should be worn in moderation. A ring on every finger might be trendy, but can appear unprofessional. Earrings must be of the stud-type nature. Dangling or loop earrings are temptations for a pediatric or geriatric patient to pull. Multiple earrings in an ear can also be perceived as unprofessional. It is better to leave bracelets at home. Chains worn around a neck must not interfere with a physical exam or procedures, always being mindful to preserve a sterile/clean field.

The white coat should be worn at all times, even in surgical rotations. It is understood that the white coat is not permitted in the actual surgical suite, but it should be worn over scrubs outside of the surgical suite, especially when consulting with a patient or a patient’s family.

As students will be on their feet for eight to twelve-plus hours on a variety of floor surfaces, a good pair of well-fitting shoes is essential. High heels are discouraged due to feet fatigue. Tennis shoes/joggers are usually inappropriate for most settings.

Bring Your EquipmentConsider your white coat as part of your equipment. By California state law, you must have a name badge that identifies you as a Physician Assistant student or trainee. Always have your stethoscope and reflex hammer. Be sure to bring a small notebook to take notes or jot down pieces of information that you may need to research later. You should have appropriate pocket guidebooks

which help you get through the rotation, such as a Sanford Guide or Pharmacopoeia. Supply your own pen that writes in black ink.

It is acceptable to bring your cell phone to work, but set it to vibrate or silent mode. Do not text while in the rotation site as cell phones can interfere with some medical machinery. If you take out your cell phone a patient or preceptor may think you are not paying attention to them or behaving professionally. Using medical applications found on your smart phone is acceptable, but be sure to explain to the preceptor and patient what you are doing.

“Can Do” AttitudeA student that has a positive or “can do” attitude is perceived as someone who is interested and engaged in their education, and usually gains the most out of rotations. Volunteering to stay late, coming in early, or taking extra days paints a positive impression to the preceptor, reinforcing the belief that the student is willing to learn and go the extra mile.

A “can do” attitude also recognizes that each preceptor and preceptor site offer different learning experiences. Take advantage of each opportunity. Also, realize the preceptors teach in different ways. Some will provide minimal input for the student, making the student research information themselves, while others will provide reading assignments at night after office hours.

Be ready for criticism as this is one of the methodologies used by many preceptors. Remember the criticism

Rotations – Impressions That Countby Roy Guizado, MS, PA-C, Student Affairs Committee Chair

Page 25: CAPA News August/September 2011

Students Students Students Students Students Students

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 25

Rotations – Impressions That Countby Roy Guizado, MS, PA-C, Student Affairs Committee Chair

is not personal; it stems from concern for the patient and student education. Maintaining a positive attitude depersonalizes the criticism and applies the content to improved patient care and PA knowledge.

Keeping a “can do” attitude will help better prepare a student, and ultimately a great PA.

Respect Your Student StatusKnow your place as a student and respect the professional boundary that exists between a preceptor and student. A student does not tell a provider how to more efficiently run their practice. A student does not tell a preceptor how to manage the front or back office staff.

Do not put the preceptor on the spot by questioning their rationale for their medical choices in front of the patient. When a student has a question about a preceptor’s patient care, diagnoses, or medication choices, it is best to do so in a private area. The student should ask the preceptor questions in a non-

threatening manner. For example, it is better to say, “I know you used Drug X for the patient. Could I have used Drug Y instead? Can you explain why Drug X is a better choice?” Avoid things like, “My pharmacology instructor said we should not use Drug X.” Or “At my last rotation, they said Drug Y is much better than the drug you chose.” Be diplomatic.

Preceptors are asked to educate students, not be their friends. They (and their staff) may not want to know that much about your personal life, so leave all details of happenings and events at home. You will want to be friendly, but be cautious about providing too much information. In this case, less is more.

Clinical education students who follow the pearls presented in the five areas above will gain the most knowledge from the rotation experience. These students will also invariably leave a good impression on the preceptors. This is important because a preceptor may be able

to provide you with a letter of recommendation, open up future networking possibilities, or even provide a job offer.

I would like to leave you with one last pearl: Remember to appreciate the sense of professional joy and fulfillment that comes with each new learning opportunity. You will become a better PA for it.

The 15th Annual CAPA Student Medical Challenge Bowl will be held Saturday, September 24, 2011,

poolside at the Renaissance Palm Springs from 5:45 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. There will be a cash prize for the winning team: $250 for their Student Society. The winning

team will also be able to display the official Challenge Bowl Trophy at their PA program.

To sign up, to go the student section of the CAPA website (www.capanet.org). We look forward to seeing you there.

Student Medical Challenge Bowl Sign Up Nowby Roy Guizado, MS, PA-C, Student Medical Challenge Bowl Coordinator

Special Student Track at the CAPA Conference –Friday, September 23, 201110:10 a.m. – 11:10 a.m.Pearls for Labs/Diagnostics

12:35 p.m. – 1:50 p.m.Student Lunch

1:55 p.m. – 2:55 p.m.Microbiology Pearls

3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.Pharmacological Pearls for PA Students

Page 26: CAPA News August/September 2011

Students Students Students Students Students Students

26 CAPA NEWS

A s my 2010-2011 CAPA Student Representative position came to a close, the

one theme that often pervaded my thoughts was gratefulness. I also happen to be writing this article over the 4th of July weekend with the sounds of Pandora in the background singing, “Bye Bye Miss American Pie….” so feelings of nostalgia are running high. Whether you are reading this as a seasoned PA or you are in the thick of studies, I hope you can relate to the feelings of gratefulness for the PAST, PRESENT, and FUTURE experiences made possible with this career.

I am grateful for my PAST experiences as the CAPA Student Representative. My year was filled with so many opportunities to connect with PAs in CAPA, providing great new professional opportunities and preserving current practice standards. If there is one thing I take away from this year, it is knowing I will always be a supporter and contributor to my state PA organization because there is an enormous effort put forth by CAPA on our behalf each year.

I am also grateful for the PRESENT, where many 2011 PAs are swapping their “–S” for a “–C.” It took so much effort on behalf of our PA Program faculty, preceptors, and classmates to get us to this moment. When we started PA school we could barely say a word like theophylline, and now we can pronounce this medication with ease, recall its mechanism of action and tell you why we would prescribe it!

Professor Nielson-Brown, painted a great picture for the way students feel at the end of their program. “You have been like the Roadrunner bird on the chase down the road of PA school with the Wile E. Coyote. Now you have finally escaped and all of a sudden, you look down and realize you’ve run off the edge of a cliff. For the first time in years…students don’t have any of the formalities of ‘the road’ you have been traveling. This can feel freeing and terrifying all at the same time.”

This brings me to what I am grateful for in the FUTURE. We are at such an exciting time in the PA Profession. I am appreciative to all statewide future PAs, and their commitment to serve in health care through braving the treacherous terrain of PA school. I am also grateful for future student involvement in CAPA, because we are the future of this exciting profession! We need to remember that with every great career comes great responsibility, so I urge each of you to get more involved in helping your community and serving within CAPA as Board Members and Committee volunteers in the future. Always, always remain a CAPA member.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you as the Student Representative. It is my pleasure and honor to congratulate and welcome, Joy Dugan, PA-S, who took office as your new Student Representative in July.

Passing the Torchby Jennifer Baltazar, PA-S, Former Student Representative (2010-2011)

L: Jennifer Baltazar, PA-S with fellow PA Students and Nancy Nielsen-Brown, PA-C (center)

I f you haven’t received email from CAPA lately, we may have an incorrect email address or your computer may be block-ing an unknown sender. Please add the following to your

address book to keep from blocking our important emails: [email protected] and [email protected]. Please update your membership profile when you move, change jobs, change phone numbers, etc. While you are updating your profile, consider adding information in the section for the CAPA Membership Directory.

Set Your Computer/SPAM Filter So You Can Receive E-Mails from CAPA

Page 27: CAPA News August/September 2011

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2011 27

Welcome New MembersJuly 12, 2011 through August 10, 2011

Mahsa AfrookhtehKathryn Ando, PA-SBrianne Bennett, PA-SVerdale Benson, PA-SCynthia Binoya, MPH, PA-SRebecca Boyle, PA-SMary Casner, PA-SJames Cassell, PA-CNicole Chase, PA-SJosh Chavez, PA-SSherrie Conrad, PA-CMichael Cragin, MS, FACHERob DeShane, PAKathleen Dupont, MPAP, PA-CElizabeth Eldakar, PA-CCathleen Encarnacion, PAAaron Englebright, PA-CAlexis Esquivel, PA studentKrista Fendrick, PA-SLinda FerettoDennis Fischer, PA-CJevon Gegg-Mitchell, PA-SLilit GevorgyanAaron Goodenough, PA-CBritta GraymanHolly Green, PA-CAngela Grundmeyer, MPAS, PA-CLaura Gunder McClary, DHSc, MHE, PA-CNisha Hazari, PA-SRandy Heim, PA-SKelsey Henschel, PA-SRenee HermanSarah Hill, PA-CRachel Holybee, PA-CShantel Joling, PA-CAaron Junta, PA-SCharlene KamimuraDavid Knabel, PA

Brandi LaFleur, PATara Lally, PAAdelyne Lam, PA-CLauren Layson, PA-SCarly Leahey, PA-SJinho Lee, PA-SMario Lopez, PA-CSara Martinho, PA-SChelsea Mays, PA-CAmalia Moreno, PA-SKari Ostlie, PA-SYung-Chen Pai, PA-SAmber Payne, PA-CRebecca Pedroza, PA-SRonete Peltz, PA-SDesla Phillips, PA-SAlma Pitcher, PA-SAlison Prins, PA-SPamela Rakoski, PA-SMyrna Ramirez, PA-SAdam Reichold, PA-C, MPASErica Ricker, PAMark Robinson, FNPJulia Seamark, PA-SJennifer Tiefenthaler, PA-SAlejandro Torres, PA-SLacey Townsend, PA-SVy-van Tran, PA-SEricsson Trieu, EMTLisette Valencia, MABreelyn Van Leeuwen, PA-SMichael Voorhees, PA-SJohn Waite, PA-SLuke Walters, PA-SKelly Williamson, PA-CEmily Yonker, PA-CDaniela ZarateJiami Zhang, PA-S

1. Redding Area PA/NP AllianceSummer Ross, PA-C; (530) [email protected]

2. Physician Assistant Society of Sacramento (PASS)Carlos De Villa, PA-C, PASS President; (916) 973-6185, [email protected] Sharma, PA-C, MMS, MPH, CHES; (916) 397-6035, [email protected]

3. Contra Costa Clinicians AssociationBrian Costello, PA-C; (707) 651-2705, contracostapas.com

4. San Francisco Bay Area Physician Assistants (SFBAPA)www.sfbapa.com, PO Box 14096, San Francisco, CA 94114-0096Martin Kramer, PA-C; (415) 433-5359, Fax: (415) 397-6805, [email protected]

5. Bay Area Mid-Level PractitionersRose Abendroth, PA-C; (650) 697-3583, Fax: (650) 692-6251, [email protected] Dillon, PA-C; (650) 591-6601, [email protected]

6. Bay Area Non-DocsLinda O’Keeffe, PA-C; (650) 366-2050, [email protected]

7. Northcoast Association of Advanced Practice CliniciansJohn Coleman, PA-C; (707) 845-6008, [email protected]

8. Stanislaus County NP/PA NetworkBrian Cormier, PA-C; (209) 605-4966, [email protected], www.nppanetwork.org

9. Stockton MidlevelsEmma Calvert, PA-C; [email protected]

10. Journal Club for PAs and NPs (Fresno area)Cristina Lopez, PA-C; (559) 875-4060; Fax: (559) 875-3434, [email protected]; 2134 10th St, Sanger, CA 93657

11. Tulare/Kings NP/PA AssociationSteve Henry, PA-C; Pager: (559) 749-4348, [email protected]

12. Central Coast Nurse Practitioners & Physician AssistantsKris Dillworth, NP; [email protected]

13. So Cal PAsLinda Aghakhanian, PA-C; [email protected]

14. Orange CountyHung Nguyen, PA-C; (714) 846-8178; [email protected]

15. San Gabriel Valley Local GroupM. Rachel DuBria, PA-C; (818) 744-6159, [email protected]

16. San Fernando/Santa Clarita Valley GroupJonah Tan, MPT, PA-C; (818) 634-0007, [email protected]

17. Coachella Valley Physician Assistant GroupMatthew Keane, MS, PA-C; [email protected]

18. San Diego AreaJeremy Adler, MS, PA-C; (619) 829-1430, [email protected]

Local Groups

Find us on:

Page 28: CAPA News August/September 2011

California Academy of Physician Assistants3100 W. Warner Avenue, Suite 3Santa Ana, CA 92704-5331

Address Service Requested

PRSRT STDUS POSTAGE

PAIDSANTA ANA, CAPERMIT NO 949

CAPA’S 35TH ANNUAL CONFERENCERenaissance Hotel | Palm Springs Convention Center

SEPTEMBER 22 - SEPTEMBER 252011

Optional Workshops | September 22 and 24

Controlled Substances Education Course | September 21, 2011

Demystifying Emergency Medicine Course | September 21, 2011

see details insidepages 12-19

Early

Registration

Deadline

Extended to

September 12!