PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS
With Physician Assistants (PA), the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay (CBHSSJB) is optimizing primary care and making history as the first health and social services provider in Québec to integrate this role into its care teams.
The CBHSSJB is working collaboratively with the Ministry of Health and Social Services and the Quebec College of Physicians to conduct the implementation of this new role, as a pilot project, adapted to the Eeyou Istchee territory, population and culture.
After many years of work and collaboration with the Canadian Association of Physician Assistants, followed by the involvement of the Ministry of Health and Social Services and the Quebec College of Physicians, we are honoured to be the first in the province to integrate Physician Assistants into healthcare teams, and soon, as key professionals in our new Miyupimaatisiiun Integrated Care Model.
― Daniel St-Amour, Executive Director
THE PATH
History
Established in the United States over 60 years ago and adopted since 1984 by the Canadian Armed Forces, Physician Assistants have a long history in military, humanitarian efforts and have been increasingly employed in a wide variety of settings, predominantly in primary healthcare and emergency medicine.
Education
They can hold either a Master of Physician Assistant studies, Bachelor of Health Science or Bachelor of Science and the national certification from the Physician Assistant Canadian Certification Council (PACCC).
THE ROLE
Scope of practice
Physician Assistants mirror the scope of practice of their supervising physician.
They may perform patient assessments, order and interpret diagnostic tests, develop diagnoses and treatment plans, manage emergencies, prescribe and administer treatments.
Collaboration
Collaboration in healthcare is at the heart of the Physician Assistant profession.
The diversification of clinicians in care units, including Physicians, Physician Assistants, Nurse Practitioners, Nurses, and more, optimizes coverage and continuity of care.
THE VISION
Equip
Train Physician Assistants at the CBHSSJB on cultural safety and trauma-informed care as part of their integration.
Grow
Demonstrate the relevance of Physician Assistants in local care teams for the new role to be permitted to continue working at the CBHSSJB.
Inspire
Propose that places be reserved for Crees in future university Physician Assistant programs.
We are actively recruiting Physician Assistants. Come for the adventure. Stay for the people.
