Focused and Enhanced Training for Physician Assistants Through a Neurosurgery Physician Assistant Fellowship

Introduction: Neurosurgery is a complicated and delicate field. Physician Assistant (PA) education provides a broad background for students however further training would be required to become a proficient Neurosurgery PA. This fellowship would provide the training to graduate a competent and well-trained Neurosurgery Physician Assistant.

Methods: The fellowship is a year in length and involves a combination of didactic sessions, clinical rotations and hands on workshops. Fellows receive training and education in the surgical as well as medical management of all aspects of Neurosurgical patients including complex spine, brain tumors, functional, epilepsy, trauma, pediatrics and intensive care situations. Post rotation assessments are given to reinforce the knowledge as well as oral presentations given by the fellow.

Results: The fellowship has graduated six fellows some of whom our department has retained others have gone on to successful careers locally and nationwide.

Conclusion : The fellowship has evolved and improved and has proven to be a beneficial addition to our department. By producing competent providers with a broad understanding of not only the Neurosurgical PA’s role in caring for a neurosurgical patient, but also a greater understanding of the extensive multidisciplinary approach to caring for the Neurosurgical patient.