Talking To Your Patients
As a new employee to an office practice, increasing awareness and understanding of the concept of a physician assistant will be imperative to successful acceptance by patient and staff. The following ideas may assist you:
• Display the “PA Definition” in the waiting room and exam rooms.
• Have PA brochures for patients and staff regarding PA education and utilization.
• Make sure your own staff is well versed in what a PA can do in your setting.
• Place a news article in your local news stating “PA associated now with Dr…”
• Give each patient PA business cards for the first several months.
• Display the PA name on stationary, fax cover sheets and the building sign.
• Create a bulletin board displaying photos of all staff including names, education and special interests.
• Show videos with a PA presenting patient care topics or demonstrating a surgical procedure.
• Place a brochure describing “What is a PA?” with specifics about education and work experience about the practicing PA in the waiting room.
• For children, a physician assistant coloring book is available for purchase through the PSPA.