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Hi Everyone! University of Florida PA Surgical Residency is having a panel to talk about the post-graduate residency and answer any questions you may have. If you are interested in becoming a surgical PA or are interested in PA school and learning about different specialties, this would be a great way to get some of your questions answered! The panel is this Thursday, 10/1/2020 from 6:30-8:00pm EST. Pre-register with the link below! https://ufl.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-mtC55QfROqsJ3kLO5TAXw PA Surg Res Panel flyer.pdf

Hello, I am looking for realistic advice on becoming a surgical PA First Assist. I viewed similar topics within this forum but wanted a more personalized response. This will probably be a long post . Here is a little about my background; I’m a 27yr old currently holding only my GED with a certification as a NA. I’ve worked as a CNA for 3years with 2.5 years working on a post surgical unit at my current hospital. I am transferring to sterile processing next month where I plan to work as I attend a CST program. I thought this would be a good field to work in since I will be working directly with the surgical instruments and preparing the kits and trays for each surgery throughout the day. I also plan to obtain my CRST ( certified registered sterile technician) by taking the exam after some more experience on my new job. I originally wanted to go to school to be an OR Nurse or go for my CRNA but after being allowed to observe a few surgeries at work realized I’d rather be more hands on during procedures. My end goal then became wanting to be a first assist. After speaking with a coworker currently waiting for admission to PA school about it, they suggested becoming a surgical PA. I’m already starting out so late in life... Is it a waste of time to go through the certification of becoming a Surgical Tech? Is it feasible to start a journey to PA so late? I want to be sure that surgery is for me and more than just an interest so figured being a Surgical Tech would help with my decision...I’ve already taken so many detours on the road to furthering my education. I don’t want to delay any further. I have also looked into the RNFA route but prefer the flexibility when it comes to specialties being a PA. All feedback is welcome. Sorry for the long post, and Thanks in advance!

The Irish government has recently given approval for a pilot program involving the recruitment of 5-6 experienced surgical PAs to work at the Beaumont Hospital in Dublin. Expected start date is July 2015. Details will be forthcoming. In addition, a Dublin-based PA program will be starting Jan 2016 Slainte!

Although I’m not a PA yet, I hope posting in this forum is fine, as I’m seeking info on existing surgical PA’s. So, what’s your specialty? I’m very interested in surgery, but I also would like to have a decent lifestyle outside of work. I’d also prefer to do more lower-risk surgeries versus something like trauma patients. The only PA I know personally specializes in urology. She works a normal schedule, is married, and has a child. I love the aspect of surgery, the idea of savings lives, and even working weekends when they need me - I hope I don’t give off the vibe that I don’t want to work. Any PA’s out there in surgery that care to comment on your work-life balance? Any insight is very appreciated!