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While receiving an interview for a PA program is an exciting achievement in and of itself, you’ll want to be on your A-game when you’re sitting in front of an admissions officer.
Therefore, you must go into your interview fully prepared to answer any related questions thrown your way.
Fortunately, because admissions officers often ask similar questions and look for similar answers, the samples in this article can help you strategize for your interview.
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Key Takeaways:
As a candidate, prepare to highlight your interpersonal skills and ethics.
As an interviewer, make sure that plenty of your interview questions for a physician assistant assess the candidate's ethics and work style.
With those tips in mind, here are 20 common physician assistant applicant interview questions and recommended sample answers with those tips in mind. Keep in mind that you should try to personalize them as much as possible when answering questions.
Why do you want to become a PA specifically? As opposed to an NP or any other type of healthcare provider?
The intent of this question is to understand what motivates you and why you’re interested in pursuing a career as a physician assistant. Ideally, you should try to give a specific example or story as an answer. Maybe there was someone or something that inspired you to become a PA.
Example Answer:
My grandfather was PA, and I used to love listening to him talk about his work. He would tell me about his surgical work and how it helped thousands of patients over the years, which I found astonishing at the time. That inspired me, especially considering that I’ve always been outgoing and inquisitive. I know I would enjoy working with patients.
How do you usually balance tests, quizzes, and studying with other aspects of your life?
PA programs are hard work, and there’s no doubt you’ll spend the majority of your time doing homework and preparing for tests. With that in mind, the admissions officer wants to ensure that you can handle stressful workloads and high-pressure exams.
Example Answer:
Of course, I always put my education first. I earned my Bachelor’s with a 3.7 GPA, so I’m accustomed to long hours of studying. Overall, I think it’s all about time management, as I focus on my schoolwork when I need to while using my free time to fulfill my needs and keep myself motivated.
Have you applied to other PA programs?
Admissions officers want to know how intently you’re looking for a position in the program and gauge whether or not they have any competition. You should answer yes, with confidence and state that you’re interviewing for similar programs elsewhere.
Example Answer:
Yes, actually. Becoming a PA is an immense commitment and passion I’ve undertaken, so I’m currently interviewing for a few different PA programs.
Can you tell me the difference between being licensed and being certified?
Interviewers ask this question because they want to see if you understand important aspects of the field. Answering this question is rather simple, as it has a factual answer.
Example Answer:
Of course. A federal, state, or local governmental agency would be granted a license, allowing someone to practice as a PA. Without a license, you could easily be fined for working in the field. On the other hand, certification is what I would achieve from completing your program. I would receive my certification by meeting an established standard of knowledge and skills that I learned while in the program.
Tell me about a particular health issue that you care about.
This question is designed to help interviewers understand your motivations for becoming a PA. After all, having passion in a stressful and potentially draining field is an important part of what will keep you going. If possible, share a story about yourself, a friend, or a family member that outlines your experience dealing with health issues.
Example Answer:
Part of my passion and motivation for becoming a PA has always stemmed from my brother. As a child, he had a weakened immune system and often became sick with pneumonia or other illnesses. For that reason, I’m extremely invested in helping children overcome medical issues through thoughtful and comprehensive medical treatment.
Tell me about a time you made a mistake. What was your immediate reaction, and how did you handle it?
Interviewers ask this to gauge your problem-solving skills. You don’t have to lie and claim that you have no faults. Instead, don’t be afraid to own your mistakes and highlight how you’ve used those mistakes to improve going forward.
Example Answer:
When I was an undergraduate, I spent an entire Tuesday night studying the wrong chapter for a test that was on Friday. I only realized after attending the lecture the next day. At first, I was frustrated with myself for making a mistake, but I quickly realized a positive side. I still had time to study the correct material and a head start on the material for the next chapter!
Would you say you’re prepared to be a PA? If so, what have you done to prepare yourself for this line of work?
Interviewers often want to assess whether or not you’re prepared for a rather stressful line of work. Talk about your experience in stressful situations and why that’s prepared you to become a PA.
Example Answer:
Yes. Knowing my stressors and better understanding them is a huge part of success in this line of work. For example, years ago, I often found that taking timed tests was a huge stressor. To cope, I decided to practice taking timed tests in my dorm and forced myself not to look at the clock. The more practice I did, the more calm I became under pressure. Eventually, I was able to tackle fifteen-minute quizzes without a hint of anxiety. I believe PA work is very similar in that my ability to stay calm under pressure will be a crucial part of giving patients proper medical care.
How do you feel about being on call or working upwards of 60 hours per week?
Employers want to see that you’re willing and able to work long hours. Make it clear that you’re passionate enough to handle the workload.
Example Answer:
I can handle it. As a medical professional, my ability to be there for my patients is an important part of their health and safety. Also, my passion for this line of work keeps me motivated to work long hours and be called in when necessary.
What role does a PA play in the healthcare system?
Interviewers ask this question to examine your knowledge of the position and the healthcare system as a whole. Try to state your understanding without rambling too much.
Example Answer:
PAs are an important part of what makes the healthcare system successful. Not only can they diagnose potential illness, manage treatment plans, and prescribe medications, but they also do so in a more cost-effective way than a doctor would. PAs are also especially versatile compared to other medical fields, making them an important asset to any healthcare organization.
Is it ever acceptable to lie to a patient?
Employers want to understand your opinion on various ethical dilemmas you may encounter in the medical field. In general, lying to a patient could be considered malpractice, and telling the truth with tact will be an important part of your job.
Example Answer:
Not really. Besides the fact that lying to a patient could be considered malpractice, I would never want to deceive them either. Regardless of how difficult the situation was, I would approach the situation objectively, empathetically, and tactfully to deliver whatever news I need to in a calm and collected way. For example, if a patient were going into surgery with a low survival chance and asked if he would be okay, I would tell him that he was “in good hands,” or something along those lines, so I could comfort him without lying outright.
Do you prefer to work in teams or by yourself?
This question is designed to help employers learn about your preferred method of working and your ability to work without direct supervision. This question is also a potential trap, as you don’t have to pick one or the other. Rather, explain how you can function well in a team, but also individually if need be.
Example Answer:
Actually, I’m comfortable working independently and being a part of a team. As an undergraduate, I often completed projects in groups, but I was also more than comfortable taking on the responsibility of a project on my own. I believe that both working environments are important. For example, I like to take in other people’s ideas at the start of a project, but I am perfectly capable of completing my portion of the project independently.
If you disagreed with a colleague about treating a patient, how would you address the situation?
PAs have to know how to handle disagreements in the workplace. You must explain how you would resolve the issue without causing too much conflict with your hypothetical colleague.
Example Answer:
If I were to disagree with a colleague about a medication being prescribed to a patient, I would first do my research to back up my reasoning. Hopefully, I’d be able to find studies to articles about the harmful effects of said medication. Afterward, I would approach them and discuss my findings in the hopes that they would understand my perspective.
What would you do if a patient isn't cooperating or outright refused medical treatment?
Employers ask physician assistant behavioral interview questions like this one to learn how well you understand this line of work. Explain what you know and how you would deal with the situation strategically.
Example Answer:
First and foremost, I would try to calmly educate the individual about all of the pros and cons of their potential treatment plan. I know it’s important for patients to understand all of their options thoroughly. If they continue to refuse, I might inquire about why to get a better understanding of their reasoning. Overall, I know that the patient can decide to refuse treatment in the end, and in the case that they do, I would be sure to document the interaction so other medical professionals and I are aware of what happened.
Why do you think you’re a good fit for our program?
The interviewer wants to know why they should pick you over other candidates, so do your best to explain why you’re highly passionate, motivated, and qualified.
Example Answer:
Besides having a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, you’ll find that I’m also highly passionate about this kind of work. I care deeply about the healthcare system and the patients I’d be seeing, so I’m willing to put in the time and effort to succeed in your program.
Tell me about your time management skills.
This is a frequent entry on lists of common physician assistant interview questions, and employers ask it to assess how you will do in the program and how you’ll do once you’re a certified PA. Explain why you have good time management skills.
Example Answer:
Excellent! I’ve never been a procrastinator, as I value getting things done on time or even early. I’ve always been the one to complete homework right away when I get home or work on a project every day instead of waiting until the last minute. Punctuality is extremely important to me, as, over my four years as an undergraduate, I was never late to class either.
Tell me about yourself.
This is one of the most common questions to ask in a physician assistant interview because it gives interviewers an idea of who you are and what you bring to the table. When you answer, give an overview of your work experience, passion, and goals.
Example Answer:
I'm a driven physician assistant with a passion for delivering high-quality and compassionate care. I have six years of experience in several healthcare settings, including the OR and ICU, where I've honed my ability to diagnose, create treatment plans, and assist with surgical procedures.
How do you approach patient-centered care and ensure that patients feel heard and respected?
PAs need to be good at balancing excellent medical care with respect and compassion for patients, so interviewers will often ask questions like this to see how you think and operate in this area.
Example Answer:
Patient-centered care is a priority of mine, and I work to build trust and rapport with patients from the moment I meet them. By practicing active listening, educating patients on what their treatment options are, and respecting their preferences and values, I am able to provide high-quality and compassionate care.
Why should we hire you?
Interviewers ask this question so they can hear exactly why you're the best person for the job. After all, you know better than anyone how your experiences and skills make you a great fit.
Example Answer:
You should hire me because my clinical experience in Urgent Cares and ERs, strong interpersonal skills, and passion for providing excellent and compassionate patient care make me a perfect fit for this role. I have both the technical skills required to take on the types of cases you see here and the communication skills needed to create solid, long-term relationships with the patients.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Not all interview questions physician assistants are asked have to do with the past -- this one is designed to give employers insight into your future goals. Make sure you highlight your dedication to this particular position or organization in your answer.
Example Answer:
In five years, I see myself as making an even bigger impact as a PA at this facility, mentoring junior colleagues and leading medical teams. I aim to continuously improve and expand my skills and stay up on the latest medical advancements so that I can become even more trustworthy to my patients and colleagues.
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Employers ask this question because it shows them what great things you bring as a candidate, as well as whether or not you're aware of your weaknesses. When you answer, focus on what you're doing to overcome your weaknesses.
Example Answer:
My strengths are my attention to detail, clinical experience, and communication skills. I've worked hard to develop these strengths, and they allow me to provide excellent, compassionate care.
My weakness is that I tend to get so caught up in each patient's care that I can lose track of time and not get everything else done that I need to. I'm working on this by setting regular alarms on my watch and setting aside regular times to catch up on my tasks.
Can you describe your experience working in a healthcare team, and how you contributed to the team's success?
How do you ensure effective communication with patients, colleagues, and other healthcare professionals?
Share an example of a complex medical case you were involved in and explain your role in managing it.
How do you stay updated with the latest medical advancements and research in your field?
Can you discuss your experience in managing and prioritizing multiple patient cases simultaneously?
How do you handle challenging patients or situations where patients are non-compliant?
Describe a time when you had to make a critical decision quickly. What was the situation, and how did you handle it?
How do you maintain patient confidentiality and uphold ethical standards in your practice?
Can you explain your approach to patient education and how you ensure patients understand their diagnoses and treatment plans?
Share an example of a time when you identified a medical error or potential risk and took steps to rectify it.
How do you handle the stress and demands of a fast-paced healthcare environment?
Can you discuss your experience in performing minor surgical procedures or assisting in major surgeries?
Describe your experience in interpreting diagnostic tests and how you collaborate with physicians to develop treatment plans.
How do you handle situations where there is disagreement or conflict within the healthcare team?
Share an example of a time when you had to deliver difficult news to a patient or their family. How did you approach the situation?
Can you discuss your experience with electronic health records (EHR) systems and your ability to use them efficiently?
Describe your experience in managing chronic conditions and providing long-term care to patients.
How do you ensure patient safety and prevent medical errors in your practice?
Can you discuss your experience in conducting physical examinations and taking detailed patient histories?
Share an example of a time when you had to collaborate with other healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for a patient.
How do you handle patients with diverse cultural backgrounds and ensure culturally sensitive care?
Describe your experience in educating and supervising medical students or other healthcare professionals.
Can you discuss your experience in providing emergency medical care and your ability to handle high-pressure situations?
Because being a physician assistant requires you to react to various complicated and hazardous situations with in-depth medical knowledge, there’s no doubt you’ll be asked a few behavioral interview questions.
These are the kind of questions that ask you to “tell me about a time when…” or “describe a time where…”. Typically, admissions officers ask these questions to examine how you reacted to a previous situation or how you might react to a hypothetical situation to understand how you might react in the future.
Given that, you’ll want to be prepared with a story or two about a time you effectively managed whatever situation you’re asked about. Maybe you have a story about why you want to become a PA or some other prior experience in the field that would make you an ideal candidate.
Remember to focus on how your actions contributed to achieving positive and effective results, and pinpoint a few traits that the admissions officer will be looking for in a physician assistant. Some of these traits include communication, intuition, multitasking, proactivity, reliability, organization, and positivity.