Physician Assistant Education Association

International Affairs Committee

PROFESSIONAL GUIDELINES FOR INTERNATIONAL ROTATIONS

Professional practice stems from a collaborative relationship between the PA, the supervising physician and the patient based on the principal of respect for the health, safety, welfare and dignity of all human beings. Physician Assistant students should always work within the scope of PApractice based on the physician/PA team conceptand be professional, ethical, and compassionate while participating ininternational rotations.

Guidelines:

PA students should…

  1. Work within the role of the PA and not act as independent practitioners.
  2. Familiarize themselves and work with the existing resources and limitations of the local health system.
  3. Be responsive and accountable to the patients and the society they are serving.
  4. Be familiar with and respectful of the customs andculture of the local working and living environments.
  5. Be respectful of local traditional folk beliefs, traditional medical practices, and understand how these affect the patient and community.
  6. Know the hierarchy of authority within the local working and living environment.
  7. Be respectful of and follow the rules and regulations of the local working and living environment.
  8. Obtain appropriate travel documentation and legal authorization necessary to participate in provision of medical care within the local jurisdiction.
  9. Follow AAPA Policy for Ethical Conduct for the Physician Assistant Profession and AAPA Guidelines for PAs Working Internationally.

Recommendations:

  1. Be aware of your own culture, beliefs, attitudes, and PA student practice responsibilities and limitations.
  2. Remember that treatment decisions are based on a combination of cultural beliefs, medical recommendations and local economics.
  3. Address patients according to the appropriate formality preferred by the patients’ culture.
  4. Always consult with your preceptor and your host family before carrying out personal independent activities or travel.
  5. Know and follow the rules of your host family to include meal times, family activities, rest times, dress code, and privacy rules.
  6. Be adaptable and flexible,and remember your definition of time may differ from that of the culture of your host country.
  7. Dress and behave appropriately according to the culture of your host country.
  8. Practice empathy and humility.
  9. Be aware of the issues related to “culture shock”and “re-entry shock” during and following international travel. Read about the country and its culture prior to arriving there.
  10. Appreciate the opportunitya international rotation provides for personal and professional growth.
  11. Share your experiences with fellow students upon your return and serve as a resource for your classmates or colleagues in terms of cultural sensitivity and other lessons learned during your international experience.

07/21/08