RIA: What Factors Influence PAs to Transition into Academia?
Saturday, May 17, 2025
2:15 PM – 2:45 PM
CE: .5 AAPA Category 1 CME
Research in Action (RIA): 25-minute research presentation, eligible for CME
Intended for those considering a transition into PA education, this qualitative study explores why PAs move from clinical practice into academia. Through focus group discussions, the study revealed factors like burnout, desire for work-life balance, giving back to the profession, and finding supportive environments. Understanding these influences can improve faculty recruitment, retention, and development, ultimately strengthening PA education and addressing nationwide faculty shortages.
Authors: Laura R. Gerstner, DHSc, MHA, MSHS, PA-C David Coniglio, EdD
Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of this session, participants should be able to:
Identify at least three primary factors that influence PAs to transition from clinical practice to academia
Compare and contrast expected, surprising, and unusual factors affecting PA faculty recruitment and retention
Propose two evidence-based strategies for improving PA faculty recruitment, onboarding, and retention efforts
