HCE question!

[ytk51890]

Hey guys,

I am an undergrad student who recently changed goals from med school to pa school. I'm not worried about pre requisites because most of the classes I have taken and will take will cover them ( I graduate fall 2013). My main concern is the HCE required for most schools. I was wondering if working at a chiropractic clinic would be considered HCE.

 

If not, I was wondering what are some good HCE alternatives. I don't have an EMT or CNA certification and was hoping to look for something that doesn't require these.

 

Thanks guys

[Friction]

I doubt it since you're not directly providing care to the patient. You can do a fast tracked course for CNA/EMT and be done with it in a matter of weeks. At least that way can get some direct patient care before applying, even if its not much.

[Lemon Bars]

Most places won't let you touch patients unless you have some sort of experience or certification. Employers hate training complete newbies for any job. You may be able to find a weekend phlebotomy class in your area.

[GatorRRT]

What do you do at the clinic? Considering some people have been able to use vet tech experience as HCE, I don't see why this wouldn't count as long as you're having some sort of patient interaction that goes beyond a front desk type role.

[Mandithatsme]

I just got a job offer yesterday at a chiropractic office. My job duties will be to stretch the patients. Is this HCE since I am literally going to be touching the patients?

[Moiraine57]

It would count, at least at the schools I am applying to. You might want to go to the "ask a PA Admissions Director" thread, or call the schools you want to apply to and ask them.