The mission statement of the West Virginia University (WVU) Physician Assistant (PA) program is to provide a model for addressing health disparity through an understanding of health and health policy, as well as awareness of social drivers of health and quality of life locally and globally.
Understanding the WVU PA Program's Core Mission
The WVU PA program's mission outlines a clear commitment to fostering healthcare professionals who are not only clinically proficient but also deeply aware of the broader societal factors influencing health. This comprehensive approach aims to create a positive impact on communities both near and far.
Key aspects of this mission include:
- Addressing Health Disparity: At its core, the program is dedicated to training Physician Assistants who can actively work to reduce inequities in healthcare access, quality, and outcomes. This involves understanding the root causes of health disparities and developing strategies to overcome them.
- Understanding Health and Health Policy: A crucial element is the emphasis on a thorough understanding of the healthcare system and the policies that govern it. Graduates are equipped to navigate complex policy landscapes and advocate for changes that promote better public health.
- Awareness of Social Drivers of Health and Quality of Life: The mission highlights the importance of recognizing that health is profoundly affected by non-medical factors. These social drivers of health can include economic stability, education, neighborhood and built environment, social and community context, and access to healthcare. By understanding these influences, future PAs can provide more holistic and effective care.
- Local and Global Impact: The scope of the mission extends from addressing specific needs within local communities to contributing to global health initiatives. This broad perspective prepares students for diverse challenges and opportunities in the healthcare field.
Through this mission, the WVU PA program strives to cultivate healthcare leaders who are prepared to make significant contributions to public health by improving health equity and overall quality of life.
