Who’s Who with our Faculty
Paul Jacques, DHSc, PA-C
What does MUSC have to offer their students that no other PA program does?
PA education is somewhat standardized through the accreditation standard used for accrediting PA programs. However, not all PA programs have embraced computer technology, simulation technology, WebCT, Exam Master; nor do all programs offer a master of science in Physician Assistant studies (MSPAS). Few PA programs offer the educational resources found at MUSC; such as the Center for Academic Excellence (CAE) nor do many have readily available Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). A scant few programs have a dynamic, activist, family physician as medical director who provides PA student involvement in a medical student run clinic for the uninsured. MUSC is among a scant few academic institutions that have embraced interprofessional education across the campus and the PA program is actively involved.
I would venture to guess that NO PA Program has all of these attributes combined into one program.
What do you love about teaching at MUSC?
Healthcare in SC has a shortage of physicians and primary care providers as determined by the American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC). MUSC PA program is focused on improving access to quality healthcare provided by PAs who are educated to work with the supervision of a physician. Knowing the significant needs in SC and being able to work with enthusiastic, energetic, altruistic, intelligent young people while providing them the skills, knowledge and attitudes to practice medicine is a great deal of fun.
Besides being a professor, where else in the PA profession are you involved?
I’ve been involved in the activities of the PA professional organizations since being a student. I was VP for my PA class and several years after graduating I became president of the NY State Society of PAs (1988). I’ve been a delegate to the American Academy of Physician Assistants for many years, representing NY and now serving as the Chief Delegate for South Carolina. Currently, I serve as the chairperson for the Legislative Committee (working to enhance the SC PA Practice Act) and July 1, 2010 I will be the president of the South Carolina Academy of PAs.
What do you do fun…outside of teaching students of course?
Prior to moving to Charleston I lived in Buffalo, NY, and sailboat racing was a hobby as I served as a crewmember. The year-round warm weather, beautiful harbor, and pleasant breezes of Charleston have brought sailboat racing to the level of a passion. I’ve purchased a 24-foot sailboat that needs a crew of 5 to compete and I’m at every possible sailboat race here in Charleston, year round. My favorite racing venue is Charleston Race Week in April.
Traveling back to Buffalo has become another fun experience. I travel there to visit my 2 grandchildren, Dylan who is 2 years old and Abigail who was born 9/8/09.
What can prospective students expect in your class?
The combined knowledge of the students within a class impresses me. As a faculty member, I strive to have students engaged in the subject and provide opportunities for students to assimilate new information and share his/her knowledge. Students must challenge the information they have acquired and seek avenues to increase their knowledge so they will excel as clinicians.
What can a prospective student do to improve their chances of being accepted?
Math and Science grades are the predictor of successful acquisition of the medical knowledge provided during the PA program curriculum. However, we are not looking for the pure scientist; the program seeks students who are empathetic, compassionate and altruistic with a deep desire to practice medicine. If you want to make a difference in the lives of those who seek medical advice/treatment and can articulate those feelings you will improve your chances of admission.
Any personal advice to give prospective students that want to come here? Any advice for those that have been accepted into the program?
Many MUSC PA applicants have great GPAs by being focused on the material provided through an educational system of lecture, lecture, cram, exam. Learning medicine is about assimilating the knowledge provided within the curriculum. Students must build upon the prerequisite knowledge and develop a sense of the entire person. Chemistry, biology, behavioral sciences (psychology and sociology), anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology provide the basis for understanding disease processes and how they manifest in people who are sick. This prerequisite knowledge will help you know how to intervene to make patients well or to feel better. When in the program; concentrate on the entire picture, the practice of medicine. Emphasis on getting a 4.0 will lead you to seeing the trees and not the forest.
Time on task leads to success. Keep focused on the goal; practicing medicine.
