PA Policies 09-10

STUDENT HANDBOOK

FOR

PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDENTS

ACADEMIC YEAR 2009 – 2010CLASS OF 2011

Rev. August 2009

The PA Program reserves the right to update the policies in this handbook to reflect the changing nature

of healthcare and education during the course of the program.

JCHS PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDENT HANDBOOK, 2009-2010ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

WELCOME..................................................................................................................... 1FACULTY AND STAFF............................................................................................2HISTORY OF JCHS AND THE PA PROGRAM...........................................................3ACCREDITATION...................................................................................................5MISSION, PURPOSE, VALUES AND GOALS..............................................................5EDUCATIONAL OUTCOMES FOR GRADUATES..........................................................6TECHNICAL STANDARDS.......................................................................................8PA PROGRAM STANDARDS OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT.....................................10STATEMENT OF VALUES OF THE PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PROFESSION...................11OATH FOR PA STUDENTS...................................................................................12ATTENDANCE POLICY.........................................................................................12

Preparation..........................................................................................12Class Attendance................................................................................12Suspension.........................................................................................13Vacation..............................................................................................13Inclement Weather..............................................................................14Deceleration........................................................................................14Administrative Withdrawal, Leave of Absence....................................14

DRESS CODE.....................................................................................................14Acceptable Classroom Attire...............................................................14Unacceptable Classroom Attire...........................................................14Clinical Skills Practice.........................................................................14First-year Clinical Experiences and Clinical Year................................14Cell Phones and Beepers....................................................................15Identification........................................................................................15

CURRICULUM DESIGN.........................................................................................15NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY.............................................................................16ADVISORS..........................................................................................................17COMMUNICATION................................................................................................17

Change in Name, Address, Phone Numbers......................................17Email Accounts...................................................................................17Mailboxes............................................................................................17Fax......................................................................................................17Blackboard..........................................................................................17In-House Website................................................................................17

TUITIONS, FEES AND EQUIPMENT........................................................................17Acceptance Deposit............................................................................17Billing Procedure.................................................................................18PA Program Estimated Expenses.......................................................18Tuition Refund.....................................................................................191098-T Information..............................................................................19Equipment...........................................................................................19Personal Computers...........................................................................19Other Expenses..................................................................................19Transportation and Housing................................................................20

HEALTH AND REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION...........................................................20Health History, Physical Exam and Immunizations.............................20

JCHS PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDENT HANDBOOK, 2009-2010iii

Health Insurance.................................................................................20Student Malpractice Insurance............................................................20Safety..................................................................................................20Blood Bourne Pathogens Exposure Procedure...................................21Protocol...............................................................................................21Health Care Facilities..........................................................................22

STUDENT DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION COMPLAINT PROCESS...............................22OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT......................................................................................22STUDENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY.................................................................22TECHNOLOGY....................................................................................................22

Student Technology Use Policies........................................................22One Jefferson Account Policy.............................................................23Protection of Accounts........................................................................23Misuse of Accounts.............................................................................23Printers and Copiers for Student Use..................................................23Computers...........................................................................................23Downloading from the Internet............................................................23Blackboard..........................................................................................24IQ.Web................................................................................................24Use of Educational Materials...............................................................24

RULES RELATED TO PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT FACILITIES........................................24PA Classroom.....................................................................................24Personal Effects..................................................................................24Safety..................................................................................................24Security...............................................................................................24Smoking/Tobacco...............................................................................25Parking................................................................................................25

TRANSFER AND CREDIT FOR EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING.........................................25EVALUATION OF STUDENT PERFORMANCE...........................................................25

Didactic Year.......................................................................................25PACKRAT...........................................................................................25Test Administration Policy...................................................................26Irregular Behavior................................................................................27Test Exam Challenges........................................................................27Grading Scale.....................................................................................28JCHS Testing Accommodation Policy.................................................28Test Review........................................................................................28Submitting Assignments......................................................................29Late Assignments................................................................................29Remediation Policy.............................................................................29

STUDENT PROGRESS.........................................................................................29Dismissal.............................................................................................29Probation.............................................................................................29Disciplinary Procedures.......................................................................30Comprehensive Didactic Summative Evaluation.................................30

COURSE AND PROGRAM EVALUATION.................................................................31GRADUATION.....................................................................................................31STUDENT SOCIETY CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS..................................................32CLINICAL YEAR OUTLINE....................................................................................38APPENDICES......................................................................................................44

Appendix A: Carilion Employee Event Form.......................................45Appendix B: JCHS Honor Code..........................................................47Appendix C: Examination Question Challenge Form..........................57Appendix D: Academic Misconduct Form............................................58Appendix E: Attendance Form............................................................60Appendix F: Receipt of PA Student Handbook Form..........................61

JCHS PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDENT HANDBOOK, 2009-2010iv

JCHS PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDENT HANDBOOK, 2009-2010v

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Dear PA Student,

Welcome to the Physician Assistant Program at Jefferson College of Health Sciences! We know how hard you worked to get here and how eager you are to get started. The next 2 ½ years will be challenging, demanding and rewarding. You are about to embark on a journey that will prepare you for your future role as a physician assistant.

The PA faculty and staff are committed to providing you a professional education in an atmosphere of mutual respect and support. We are excited that you, the Class of 2011, have chosen Jefferson College of Health Sciences for your graduate PA education.

This handbook has been developed as a supplement to the JCHS Graduate Handbook to provide information on programmatic academic policies and procedures. As a graduate level PA student you are responsible for reading and complying with all the rules, regulations and policies of the PA Program and Graduate School.

On behalf of our excellent faculty and staff, I extend our heartfelt wishes for a successful and rewarding education.

Sincerely,

Wilton Kennedy, DHSc, PA-CDirector and Associate ProfessorPhysician Assistant Program

JCHS PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDENT HANDBOOK, 2009-20101

JCHS Physician Assistant ProgramOffice Phone: 540-985-4016

Fax: 540-224-4551

Faculty

Wilton Kennedy, DHSc, PA-CDirector/Associate [email protected]

Patrick McCarthy, MDAcademic Medical Director/Assistant [email protected]

Stephen Remine, MDClinical Medical [email protected]

Denise Dillingham, MPAS, PA-CClinical Coordinator/Assistant [email protected]

Patricia Airey, MS, PA-CAcademic Coordinator/Assistant [email protected]

Robert Hadley, PhD, PA-CAssociate [email protected]

Jennifer Chen, MDAssistant [email protected]

Vicki Bierman, MSW, FNPAssistant [email protected]

J. Randy Howell, MPA, PA-CService Learning Coordinator/Assistant [email protected]

Joel Atance, PhDAssistant ProfessorMath & Science [email protected]

Staff

Kathy KeoughanProgram [email protected]

Barb Williams, BAClinical Resource [email protected]

540-985-4516


mailto:[email protected]










History of JCHS and the PA Program

Jefferson College of Health SciencesJefferson College of Health Sciences was founded in 1914 as Jefferson Hospital School of Nursing. Dr. Hugh Trout, Sr. was an early pioneer of health care in the Roanoke Valley. Dr. Trout obtained his M.D. degree from the University of Virginia in 1902. After completing his surgical residency in Baltimore, Maryland, Dr. Trout relocated to Southwest Virginia. In 1907, he founded a small, 40-bed facility located at what is now 1311 Franklin Road. The hospital was named Jefferson Hospital in honor and memory of Thomas Jefferson.

Dr. Trout soon found that the need for adequately trained nurses in the area far surpassed those available. In an effort to alleviate the shortage, he established the Jefferson Hospital School of Nursing. The school opened its doors in 1914, with an initial class of 6 students. All six completed the 33-month training program and graduated in 1917. A self-study following the first graduation concluded that the school exceeded the Standard Curriculum for Schools of Nursing, published by the National League for Nursing Education in 1917. The school went on to gain approval by the American College of Surgeons and the American Medical Association in 1923. The American Hospital Association recognized the school in 1926. Around the same time as the development of Jefferson Hospital, Dr. James Newton Lewis and Dr. Sparrell Simmons Gale were initiating their own vision of healthcare for the Roanoke Valley. In 1909, they founded Lewis-Gale Hospital in Downtown Roanoke, and in 1911, the Lewis-Gale School of Nursing was born. The two schools operated independently of each other for many years. Between 1914 and 1965, Jefferson Hospital School of Nursing alone trained 658 new nurses, most of which stayed within the community upon graduation.

During Jefferson Hospital's first 50 years, it was expanded three times and grew to a 151-bed facility. In 1953, Jefferson Hospital hired a 26-year old administrator named William Reid. He soon became aware of the booming population and the rising costs of health care in Southwest Virginia. The population of Roanoke had rapidly expanded beyond the capabilities of the Jefferson Hospital facility. In 1960, under his direction, a new hospital facility was commissioned. The project was truly reliant on the community, as citizens donated $3.3 million toward construction costs. Several sites were considered, including ones in Salem and near what is now Tanglewood Mall, before land was purchased near the newly opened Interstate 581 corridor. Groundbreaking occurred in 1963, with the new hospital scheduled to open in 1965. However, construction delays, including the replacement of concrete columns that did not meet building standards, resulted in the opening being delayed until 1967. On August 27, 1967, 10,000 people toured the new Community Hospital of Roanoke Valley.

In 1965, it was decided that the Lewis-Gale School of Nursing and the Jefferson Hospital School of Nursing should combine under the direction of the new hospital. This led to the formation of the Community Hospital of Roanoke Valley School of Nursing. The school was under the guidance of Lavina Duncan, RN, formerly of Lewis-Gale, who was named Director of Nursing Services for the new hospital in 1964. William Reid was also a chief figure, as administrator for the school. The Community Hospital of Roanoke Valley School of Nursing had an inaugural class of 50 students, and in 1968 graduated its first class of 29 new nurses. At the time, neither Lewis-Gale nor Community Hospital had facilities to house the School of Nursing. Therefore the hospital leased six floors of the Carlton Terrace Building (now the Reid Center) for use by the school.

The school operated in this fashion for approximately 15 years. Then in 1980, a task force investigated the possibility of establishing a hospital-based college that would grant 2-year degrees in nursing and allied health. In 1981 the Community Hospital Board of Trustees made a commitment to such a school, and in 1982 the Community Hospital of Roanoke Valley College of Health Sciences was established. The College of Health Sciences was the first hospital-based college in Virginia. In addition, Community Hospital was one of only seven in the nation to have its College of Health Sciences accredited by the Commission for Higher Education. Dr. Jerome


Cohen, who helped establish the college and was serving as Educational Director of the hospital, was named its first Dean on August 23, 1982. Dr. Cohen came to Roanoke after serving as an administrator and Associate Professor in the Connecticut community college system.

In 1986, the College obtained accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) to grant degrees at the Associate Level. In 1989 the College named its first President, Dr. Harry C. Nickens. Dr. Nickens was very active in the local community and had been a leader in Roanoke for over 20 years. He directed the College through the addition of several programs and to a record enrollment of 615 students in 1998. He continued to lead the College until 2001, when he left to become president of the College's foundation. In 1992, William Reid, director of Community Hospital, announced his retirement. In appreciation for his contributions to the College and Hospital system, the Carlton Terrace Building was renamed the Reid Center. William Reid remains an active member of the College Board of Directors to this day.

The College continued to expand in 1995 when it was accredited by SACS at the Baccalaureate degree level. In 1999, the College admitted its first international students, showing growth on a global scale. In 2000, the re-affirmation site visit by SACS was completed, rewarding the College with long-term accreditation.

In 2003, it was decided that the name of the College should be changed. This was due, in part, to the fact that the Community Hospital of Roanoke Valley no longer existed, having changed its name to Carilion Roanoke Community Hospital. In addition, a new name would give the College a larger presence in the community, while acknowledging its history. In October 2003, the College officially became Jefferson College of Health Sciences, recognizing both its past and future in the Roanoke Valley.

In 2005, the College was granted Carnegie Level III status by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, which gives Jefferson approval to offer graduate programs. That year, the first group of master's of science in nursing students began their studies. In fall 2008, two more graduate programs opened, the Master of Science in Physician Assistant and the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy.

While Jefferson was founded as Jefferson School of Nursing almost a century ago, the College celebrates 25 years of degree-granting status in 2007. A year-long schedule of special events will be held to commemorate and honor the vision of several, the work of many, and the legacy of four great institutions, which have provided the foundation for Jefferson College of Health Sciences.

The College continues its mission of providing competent and caring health care professionals who make a difference not only in Southwest Virginia, but across the country as well.

Physician Assistant ProgramIn 1996, a 20-member advisory committee began developing a curriculum and finding clinical sites for the first physician assistant program in Virginia. Jefferson’s PA program would break barriers not only for healthcare licensure offered in the Commonwealth but also for how Virginians review primary care.

The original teaching team consisted of Doug Southard, PhD, MPH, PA-C, (now JCHS Provost and Dean of Academic Affairs), as program director; Mark Greenawald, MD, as medical director; Rebecca Scott, PhD, PA-C, as academic coordinator (and later as program director); and Sharon Maiewski, PA-C, as clinical coordinator. In addition, over 150 physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and other health-care professionals helped train the first class of 21 students in 1997.

In 2008, the program received permission by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to offer the graduate degree of Master of Science in Physician Assistant.


There have been 262 students to graduate from the program.


Accreditation

College AccreditationJefferson College of Health Sciences is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate, baccalaureate and masters degrees.

Program AccreditationThe Physician Assistant Program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). ARC-PA is the recognized accrediting agency that protects the interests of the public and PA profession by defining the standards for PA education and evaluating PA educational programs within the territorial United States to ensure their compliance with those standards. Only graduates from ARC-PA-accredited programs are eligible to sit for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) and become licensed to practice. The program completed the reaccreditation process in 2007 and was awarded a five-year accreditation.

Mission, Purpose, Values and Goals

Jefferson College of Health SciencesMission StatementJefferson College of Health Sciences prepares within a scholarly environment, ethical, knowledgeable, competent and caring healthcare professionals.

Purpose and Values Founded in 1914, as Jefferson Hospital School of Nursing, Jefferson College of Health Sciences, located in Roanoke, Va., is a private institution offering baccalaureate and associate degree programs, as well as graduate education, exclusively in healthcare disciplines. The College's history dates from the formation of the Community Hospital of Roanoke Valley School of Nursing, which evolved from the 1965 merger of the Jefferson Hospital School of Nursing, founded in 1914, and the Lewis-Gale School of Nursing, founded in 1911. The College provides educational opportunities for those seeking healthcare careers, lifelong learning, and career enhancement adapted to the healthcare environment.

The Jefferson College community values: excellence and innovation in education; integration of contemporary technologies; community-campus partnerships; diversity of person and thought; integrity in personal and professional life; personal, professional and scholarly development; and a commitment to lifelong learning.

Based on these values, we believe: The college is a partnership of people. Our students, faculty, staff and alumni are our

principle assets. Teaching is our primary mission and we recognize the contribution of scholarly activity to

the learning process. A foundation in general education prepares students intellectually, culturally and ethically

for their professional and personal lives. Scientific and technical knowledge, competencies and proficiencies are required for

successful practice and advancement in students’ chosen professions. Scholarly environment is required for the intellectual, personal, and professional

development of student, staff, faculty and alumni.


Broad-based, interdisciplinary education fosters community partnerships, improved health and respect for human diversity and dignity.

Institutional and programmatic accreditation contributes to academic excellence. Systematic planning and evaluation contributes to sound management of human,

physical, and financial resources.

Physician Assistant Program - Mission StatementThe mission of the Jefferson College of Health Sciences Masters of Science Physician Assistant Program is to prepare graduate-level physician assistants who are well versed in the art and science of medicine for service to their communities, with special attention to reducing disparities in health care.

Physician Assistant Program GoalsUpon completion of the JCHS Physician Assistant Program, the graduate will be able to:

1. Demonstrate the application of current, evidence-based medical knowledge to provide the most appropriate patient-centered care (Medical Knowledge).

2. Communicate effectively with patients, physicians, and other members of the healthcare team to foster interdisciplinary collaboration (Communication).

3. Demonstrate patient-centered care that is effective, timely, efficient, and equitable for the treatment of health problems and promotes wellness across the lifespan, regardless of individual characteristics (Systems-Based Patient Care).

4. Model the use of bioethical and legal principles pertaining to the delivery of healthcare (Professionalism).

5. Positively impact and advocate for the appropriate provision of healthcare for patients, their families, and communities (Professionalism).

6. Exemplify a commitment to personal growth and development as well as growth and development of the physician assistant profession (Professionalism).

7. Demonstrate scholarship and commitment to lifelong learning through critical analysis, interpretation, and evaluation of current medical research and literature to enhance the delivery of health care (Practice-Based Learning and Improvement).

Educational Outcomes for Graduates

Graduate Competencies The Physician Assistant Program curriculum at JCHS reflects a philosophy of lifelong learning and patient-centered care. Coursework integrates medical treatment modalities with health promotion, behavioral medicine, and disease prevention to meet the needs of a changing healthcare environment. The Program curriculum is based on the mission statement, curricular outcomes, competencies, and technical standards for the physician assistant profession. The professional documents and requirements (AAPA, PAEA, NCCPA, ARC-PA’s “Competencies for the Physician Assistant” and the “Accreditation Standards for Physician Assistant Education”) provide the foundation for the curriculum.

Physician Assistant faculty and clinical preceptors serve as mentors for students, modeling professional ethics and attitudes conducive to healthcare professionals and demonstrating required medical knowledge and skills. The course of study emphasizes case-based learning and a systems approach, linking theory and practice. Students learn to value and practice interdisciplinary teamwork and healthcare delivery to diverse populations.

Medical KnowledgeThe Program provides instruction in the basic medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, clinical pharmacology, and the genetic and molecular mechanisms of health and disease. It provides instruction in clinical medicine that covers the major organ systems. In addition, the Program provides supervised clinical practice in emergency medicine, family medicine, general internal medicine, general surgical care - including operative experiences, pediatrics, women’s health, psychiatry, behavioral medicine, and orthopedics. Upon completion of


the Program, the graduating student will be able to: Understand etiologies, risk factors, underlying pathologic processes, and epidemiology,

including genetic factors, for medical conditions. Identify signs and symptoms, and physical exam findings of medical conditions. Select and interpret appropriate diagnostic and lab studies. Manage general medical and surgical conditions, including understanding the

indications, contraindications, side effects, interactions, and adverse reactions of pharmacologic agents and non pharmacologic treatment modalities.

Identify the appropriate site of care for presenting conditions, including identifying emergency cases and cases requiring referral or admission.

Identify appropriate interventions for prevention of medical conditions. Identify appropriate methods to detect conditions in an asymptomatic individual. Differentiate between the normal and the abnormal in anatomic, physiological,

laboratory findings, and other diagnostic data. Use history and physical findings and diagnostic studies to formulate a problem list,

differential diagnosis, diagnosis and patient management plan. Provide care to patients in all stages of life, including preventative, acute, chronic,

rehabilitative, and end-of-life care. Apply principles of patient self-management in those with chronic diseases, including

developing patient-provider partnerships, setting collaborative action plans and goals, and making provisions for appropriate follow-up.

Apply an understanding of human behavior and psychological development to patients’ conditions and situations.

Communication SkillsThe Program provides instruction in interpersonal and communication skills resulting in effective communication and collaboration between patient, families, and other healthcare professionals. Upon completion of the Program, the graduating student will be able to:

Create and sustain a therapeutic and ethically sound relationship with patients. Present patient information in an articulate and concise manner in oral and written form Use effective listening, nonverbal, explanatory, questioning, and writing skills to elicit and

provide information. Accurately and adequately document and record information regarding the care

process for medical, legal, quality, and financial purposes. Adapt communication style and messages suitable and appropriate for patients of

varying backgrounds and cultures. Obtain a pertinent history of the disease from the patient’s perspective. Provide medical care to patients from diverse populations, including use of an

interpreter and history taking through a third party. Work effectively with physicians and other healthcare professionals as a member or leader

of a healthcare team or other professional group.

Patient-Centered CareThe Program provides instruction in the care and management of patients across the lifespan, with a focus on cultural awareness and sensitivity. Upon completion of the Program, the graduating student will be able to:

Work effectively with physicians and other healthcare professionals to provide patient-centered care.

Demonstrate caring and respectful behaviors when interacting with patients and their families.

Make informed decisions about diagnostic and therapeutic interventions based on the patient’s information and preferences.

Develop and carry out patient management plans. Counsel and educate patients and their families about:

Coping with illness and injury.


Adherence to prescribed treatment plans. Modification of behaviors to more healthful patterns. Management of chronic medical problems. End-of life-issues. Human sexuality.

Competently perform medical and surgical procedures considered germane to primary care.

Provide healthcare services and education aimed at preventing health problems and maintaining healthy, therapeutic lifestyle.

Recognize and treat substance abuse, violent behavior, and abuse in a patient and/or a patient’s family.

ProfessionalismThe Program provides instruction on professional issues and medical ethics. Upon completion of the Program, the graduating student will demonstrate the following:

Knowledge of the history of the physician assistant profession and the current trends in the profession.

An understanding of legal and regulatory requirements, as well as the role of the physician assistant.

A professional relationship with physician supervisors and other healthcare providers. Awareness of limitations, openness to seek and accept constructive criticism and

motivation to expand knowledge base. Respect, compassion, and integrity, along with responsiveness to the needs of patients

and society. Accountability to patients, society, and the profession. A commitment to ethical principles pertaining to provision or withholding of clinical care,

confidentiality of patient information, and informed consent. Sensitivity and responsiveness to the patient’s culture, age, gender, and disabilities. An ability to communicate information regarding patients, medical conditions research

materials to colleagues and peers. Knowledge of the legal issues of healthcare and their relation to physician assistant

practice. Knowledge of reimbursement issues, including documentation, coding and billing, and

professional liability.

Practice-Based Learning and ImprovementThe Program provides instruction to foster lifelong learning and critical thinking skills. It provides the skills necessary to search, interpret, and evaluate the medical literature in order to maintain a critical, current, and operational knowledge of new medical findings, including application to individualized patient care. Upon completion of the Program, graduating students will be able to:

Demonstrate awareness of with practice-based improvement methodologies. Locate, appraise, and integrate evidence from scientific studies related to patients’

health problems. Obtain and apply information about the population of their patients and the larger

population from which patients are drawn. Use information technology to manage information and to access online medical

information.

Systems-Based PracticeThe Program provides instruction on providing patient-centered care that uses the most up-to-date methods to deliver medical care in a cost-effective and timely manner. Upon completion of the Program, the graduating student will be able to:

Use information technology to support patient care decisions. Demonstrate and apply familiarity with different types of medical practice and delivery

systems.


Demonstrate knowledge of the funding sources and payment systems that provide coverage for patient care.

Partner with supervising physicians, healthcare managers, and other healthcare providers to assess, coordinate, and improve the delivery of health care and patient outcomes.

Technical Standards

All students in the Jefferson College of Health Sciences Physician Assistant Program must possess the intellectual ability to learn, integrate, analyze, and synthesize data. They must have functional use of the senses of vision, hearing, equilibrium, and smell, with or without reasonable accommodations. Their exteroceptive (touch, pain, temperature) and proprioceptive (position, pressure, movement, stereognosis, and vibratory) senses must be sufficiently intact to enable them to carry out all activities required for a complete physician assistant education. These standards for admission establish the expectations and abilities considered essential for students to complete and graduate from our Program. These technical standards will be necessary for successful clinical practice. Students must possess these technical standards at the time of matriculation and throughout the program. Students who do not demonstrate these standards during the course of the program are at risk for dismissal.

The student must possess and be able to demonstrate the following abilities and skills:

1. Intellectual: A student must have the mental capacity to assimilate and learn a large amount of complex and technical information; be able to conceptualize and solve clinical problems and to synthesize and apply concepts and detailed information from various disciplines in order to formulate diagnostic and therapeutic plans. Students must be able to learn to read and comprehend technical materials, medication and laboratory reports.

2. Observation: The ability to observe well is required for demonstrations and visual presentations, laboratory evidence, and microscopic studies of microorganisms and tissues in normal and pathologic states. A student must be able to observe patients accurately and completely, at a distance and closely. This requires functional vision and somatic sensation, enhanced by a sense of smell.

3. Communication: A student must be able to speak with, hear, and observe patients in order to elicit information, perceive nonverbal communication, and describe changes in mood, activity, and posture. The student must be able to communicate effectively and sensitively in English with patients from different socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. Students must be able to develop professional rapport, and efficiently and effectively communicate with the healthcare team, orally and in writing.

4. Motor: A student must have motor function to elicit information from patients by palpation, auscultation, and percussion, and to carry out diagnostic maneuvers. He or she must be able to execute movements required to provide general care and emergency treatment. Such skills require coordination of gross and fine muscular movements, equilibrium, and sensation. Students must have sufficient postural control, neuromuscular control and eye-to-hand coordination to use standard medical/surgical instruments and possess sufficient control of the upper extremities to meet the physical requirements for training and performing a safe physical examination procedure.

5. Emotional: A student must have the emotional health to use fully his or her intellectual ability, exercise good judgment, and carry out all responsibilities attendant to the diagnosis and care of patients. The Physician Assistant Program at JCHS is demanding both intellectually and emotionally. Students must display sufficient emotional health to withstand stress, uncertainties and changing circumstances that characterize the rigors of our Program and the reality of life as a dependent practitioner. Physician assistant


students must be able to work cooperatively with other students, staff, faculty, and patients.

6. Interpersonal: A student must be able to develop mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with patients and colleagues. The ability to tolerate physical and emotional stress and continue to function effectively is a must. Students must be adaptable, flexible, and able to function in the face of uncertainty during the course of study and with patients. Students must have integrity, the motivation to serve, a high level of compassion, and a consciousness of social values. Students need the interpersonal skills to interact positively with people from all levels of society, ethnic backgrounds, and beliefs.


PA Program Standards of Professional Conduct

Behavioral attributes associated with success in the Physician Assistant profession are empathy, discipline, honesty, integrity, the ability to work effectively with others on a team, and the ability to address a crisis or emergency in a composed manner. The Standards and Guidelines for an Accredited Educational Program for the Physician Assistant states:

The role of the Physician Assistant demands intelligence, sound judgment, intellectual honesty, appropriate interpersonal skills, and the capacity to react to emergencies in a calm and reasoned manner. An attitude of respect for self and others, adherence to the concepts of privilege and confidentiality in communicating with patients, and a commitment to the patient’s welfare, are essential attributes.

Adherence to these standards requires that PAs and PA students exhibit a high level of maturity and self-control even in highly stressful situations. You were invited into this Program because the Admissions Committee believes that you possess these qualities.

PA students must conduct themselves in a highly professional manner consistent with the responsibilities for patient care entrusted to them during their training. Professional behavior is not easy to define, but unprofessional behavior is readily identifiable. Failure to adhere to the following standards necessitates review by the Student Evaluation and Promotion Committee (SEPC) and may result in corrective action and/or dismissal from the Program.

1. Respect: Students are expected to treat all patients, faculty, staff, guest lecturers, clinical preceptors and fellow students with dignity and respect. Appropriate classroom behavior is expected. Conflicts should be resolved in a diplomatic and reasoned manner. Students should be tolerant of diversity in student and patient populations. PA training involves a close working environment with other students, including physical examination of fellow students and discussion groups that may reveal information of a personal nature. Approach these situations with respect for the privacy, confidentiality, and feelings of fellow students. You can disagree without being disagreeable.

2. Communication: Effective communication is essential in your role as a student and as a medical provider. While enrolled here, you should follow these communication guidelines:

a. Respond to fellow students readily and tactfully.b. Recognize proper verbal and nonverbal communication.c. React in a positive manner to feedback and criticism.

3. Flexibility: PA training involves instruction from practicing clinicians with unpredictable schedules. At times, schedules for lectures or clinical sessions may be adjusted with short notice. The advantage of using practicing clinicians outweighs this inconvenience, and students should be flexible and tolerant of changes.

4. Integrity: You are expected to follow all policies in the Code for Student Conduct section of the JCHS Student Handbook; pay special attention to policies pertaining to academic honesty. PA students are also expected to display the highest ethical standards commensurate with work as a healthcare professional.

5. Identification: PA students must always identify themselves as Physician Assistant Students to patients and site staff. Never present yourself as a physician, a resident, a medical student, or a graduate physician assistant. You MUST always wear a short clinical jacket while at clinical sites, unless instructed not to do so by the site or the Program. Always wear your official name badge while in class and at clinical sites. While in the PA Program, students may not use previously earned titles (e.g., RN, DC, PhD) for identification.

6. Confidentiality: Respect the confidentiality of patients and fellow students; you are not permitted to discuss any patients by name outside the clinical encounter. Any discussion regarding a patient’s diagnosis, care, and condition should be conducted with discretion and preferably in private. For academic presentations and history and physical assignments, identify a patient by initials or chart numbers. Failure to adhere will result in dismissal from the Program per Carilion policy.


The above list is by no means exhaustive. Each PA class will negotiate additional attributes as a part of its class constitution. This document will serve as a professional and behavioral contract for the class.


American Academy of Physician AssistantsGuidelines for Ethical Conduct for the Physician Assistant Profession

The "Statement of Values" defines the fundamental values that the PA profession strives to uphold. The guidelines were written with the understanding that no document can encompass all actual and potential ethical responsibilities, and PAs should not regard them as comprehensive.

Statement of Values of the Physician Assistant Profession

Physician assistants hold as their primary responsibility the health, safety, welfare, and dignity of all human beings.

Physician assistants uphold the tenets of patient autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice.

Physician assistants recognize and promote the value of diversity.

Physician assistants treat equally all persons who seek their care.

Physician assistants hold in confidence the information shared in the course of practicing medicine.

Physician assistants assess their personal capabilities and limitations, striving always to improve their medical practice.

Physician assistants actively seek to expand their knowledge and skills, keeping abreast of advances in medicine.

Physician assistants work with other members of the health care team to provide compassionate and effective care of patients.

Physician assistants use their knowledge and experience to contribute to an improved community.

Physician assistants respect their professional relationship with physicians.

Physician assistants share and expand knowledge within the profession.


Oath for PA Students

I pledge to perform the following duties with honesty, integrity, and dedication, remembering always that my primary responsibility is to the health, safety, welfare, and dignity of all human beings:

I recognize and promote the value of diversity and I will treat equally all persons who seek my care.

I will uphold the tenets of patient autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, and the principle of informed consent.

I will hold in confidence the information shared with me in the course of practicing medicine, except where I am authorized to impart such knowledge.

I will be diligent in understanding both my personal capabilities and my limitations, striving always to improve my practice of medicine.

I will actively seek to expand my intellectual knowledge and skills, keeping abreast of advances in medical art and science.

I will work with other members of the health care team to assure compassionate and effective care of patients.

I will uphold and enhance community values and use the knowledge and experience acquired as a PA to contribute to an improved community.

I will respect my professional relationship with the physician and act always with the guidance and supervision provided by that physician, except where to do so would cause harm.

I recognize my duty to perpetuate knowledge within the profession.

These duties are pledged with sincerity and on my honor.

Student Academy of the American Academy of Physician Assistants950 North Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

703-836-2272

Last Revised: 10/23/06

Attendance Policy

PreparationStudents are required to come to class, lab sessions, and clinical experiences fully prepared. Students are expected to have the knowledge of prerequisite course materials. When necessary, students are expected to review and update areas previously studied. Students also are responsible for completing all pre-class and pre-clinical assignments.

Class AttendanceAttendance to class, lab, clinical experiences and class functions is mandatory. Students are responsible for knowing all course content and skills taught during class and laboratory sessions. Although much of medical knowledge can be acquired from a textbook, problem solving, clinical reasoning, and interaction with fellow students and instructors play important roles in a clinical and professional education program.


When a student must miss a class or laboratory session, the student should inform the Academic Coordinator and the Program secretary by email or phone before the absence and make up all work missed during the absence. When absent for more than one day for a family emergency or a prolonged illness, consult the Academic Coordinator and the instructors of the classes missed as soon as possible. Faculty members will work with a student to help make up missed work whenever possible. All communication with faculty and staff is held in strict confidence.

Students with unexcused absences or who are habitually late will be referred to the Student Evaluation and Promotion Committee (see pg. 30) for review. Excused absences are absences that have been arranged ahead of time, an acute illness, or an emergency.

Documentation and procedures for informing the faculty and staff of an absence are as follows:

For a student who knows in advance that they will be missing a class, you should do the following:

Download the “Attendance form” from Blackboard (Student Society and Clinical Medicine site).

Complete the form and submit to Kathy Keoughan in the PA office. She will forward this request to Dr. Chen.

If there are special circumstances regarding your planned or unplanned absence, please indicate that on the form.

This should be done as far in advance as possible. Two absences will be allowed per semester. After the second absence, each

absence will result in a 5% reduction in the final grade of the course and may result in a referral to the Student Evaluation and Promotion Committee as is the current policy.

For students who have missed a class due to illness or other circumstances, the policy is similar:

Download and complete the attendance form and submit to Kathy as above and continue to inform Kathy/faculty.

Faculty will complete the attendance form and have the student initial it. Faculty will note the absence and file in your program file. The same policy for absences applies as above. If you have special

circumstances, please note that on the form.

For any questions regarding the above policy, please direct them to the Academic Coordinator. Students on clinical rotations will have an attendance policy that is different. Please consult the Clinical Year Manual.

SuspensionIf in the judgment of the faculty member, a situation has occurred or is about to occur that would jeopardize in some fashion the student, patients, other students, the program or its affiliates, the Program Director may immediately suspend a student from any PA course for a period no longer than 48 hours (excluding weekends).

The Program Director may extend that suspension until appropriate investigation and resolution can be reached.

If the Program Director, in consultation with the clinical affiliate, determines that the student is unable to participate in the clinical phase of the program without endangering the safety of patients, staff or others, the student’s case will be referred to the PA Program faculty or SEPC for further recommendations which may include dismissal from the program.

Vacation


Students follow the PA Didactic College schedule for holidays and vacations during the didactic phase. Plan your vacations accordingly. During the clinical phase, students are scheduled for 12 one-month rotations.


Inclement WeatherDuring the didactic year, the Program follows the inclement weather policy stated in the JCHS Student Handbook. The College may delay or cancel classes due to inclement weather or other conditions. Any announcement canceling classes or delaying the beginning of classes will be made before 6:30 a.m., if possible. Tune into a local radio or television station, call the College’s main number at 540-985-8483 or check the college website for information about delayed or canceled classes. If the College is closed, there will be no PA classes. If classes are delayed, PA classes will begin at the time the College opens. Please exercise good judgment when driving during inclement weather. We do not want any students putting themselves in harm’s way whether the College is open or not.

DecelerationThere is no deceleration policy during the didactic year; some exceptions may be made during the clinical year.

Administrative Withdrawal, Leave of AbsenceRefer to JCHS Graduate Handbook.

Dress Code

Personal appearance must be compatible with that of a health care professional. This is a professional program and students are expected to dress accordingly. Physician Assistant students must always appear acceptable to patients, preceptors, guest lecturers, and other professionals. The following guidelines are designed to maintain a professional image throughout your tenure at the JCHS PA Program. Violations of the dress code will be referred to the Program Director or to SEPC.

Acceptable Classroom AttireBusiness/smart casual. All clothing must be clean and wrinkle-free with no holes or frays. Khakis and golf shirts are acceptable. Shoes must be worn at all times. Open-toed shoes are acceptable, except during Anatomy lab and clinical experiences. Jeans are permitted on Fridays. In general, always dress neatly and modestly.

Unacceptable Classroom AttireSweatpants, workout clothes, jogging suits, leggings, Lycra tights, flip-flops, beach sandals, tank tops, mini-skirts, untucked shirttails, crop tops, midriff tops, or low-cut tops are unacceptable classroom attire. Undergarments, cleavage, and midriffs must never be visible. No sweatshirts,t-shirts, or other clothing with inappropriate wording, designs, or graphics may be worn. No hats or caps may be worn at any time. Visible tattoos are strongly discouraged. No visible body piercing except ears is allowed.

The instructor for a class reserves the right to change the dress code for his/her course in consultation with the Program Director.

The Program Director, in consultation with faculty, staff and students, may call for occasional dress-up or dress-down days.

Clinical Skills PracticeDuring the first year, students will practice physical examinations on each other. Students may wear scrubs, shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops; women may wear sports bras or tank tops to the Clinical Skills Lab. Students without proper attire will not be allowed in the Clinical Skills Lab.

First-Year Clinical Experiences and the Clinical YearProfessional dress is expected during the first-year clinical experiences, second-year rotations, End-of-Rotation (EOR), and other off-campus events, such as health fairs and continuing education activities.


While on a clinical site, students must wear a well-kept short white lab coat with identification badge.

An odor-free and clean, neat appearance is required. Hair must be neat and clean. Facial hair is acceptable if it is neat and trimmed. Nails must be clean and well trimmed. Nail polish cannot be worn during any surgical

rotation. Artificial nails are not allowed. Makeup and jewelry should not be worn in excess.

No perfume or cologne should be worn in the classroom, during clinical experiences, or on rotations.

Students dressed inappropriately will be excused from classes or clinical training and asked to report to the Program Director.

A clinical site may impose additional requirements. If the site has established its own dress policy, its policy supersedes that of the PA Program.

Students dressed inappropriately will be excused from classes or clinical rotations and asked to report to the Program Director. Repeated violations of the dress code are subject to disciplinary action and referred to SEPC.

Cell Phones and BeepersCell phones and beepers are permitted in class as long as the ringer is off or in vibrate mode. Cell phone use and texting are not allowed during class. Some instructors do not allow cell phones or beepers in the classroom at all.

IdentificationPhysician Assistant students must be readily identifiable at all times whether in class or on clinical rotations. A College ID badge must be worn to gain access to the Reid Center. Since the PA classroom is now in Carilion Roanoke Community Hospital it is of utmost importance that an ID badge been worn at all times. A Physician Assistant student must always introduce himself/ herself to a health care professional or patient as a Physician Assistant student with clarity.

Curriculum Design

The curriculum design is based on the concepts of adult-centered learning and professional education, which focuses on the mastery of knowledge, skills and attitudes required by the graduate to practice effectively as a physician assistant. The curriculum, offered in didactic and clinical components, is an approach which moves from basic to more advanced skills. The curriculum design assumes students will develop the necessary skills to be self-directed learners and apply effectively what they learn in the clinical setting.

PREFIX COURSE TITLE CREDITSSemester 1PHA 501 Clinical Medicine I 4PHA 511 Clinical Pathophysiology & Lab I 3PHA 525 / 525L Clinical Skills I 4BIO 509 / 509L Clinical Anatomy I 2PHA 533 Behavioral Medicine 2PHA 541 Clinical Pharmacotherapeutics I 2PHA 561 Professional Seminar I 1

Total Credits: 18Semester 2PHA 502 Clinical Medicine II 5PHA 512 Clinical Pathophysiology & Lab II 3


PHA 526 / 526L Clinical Skills II 4BIO 510 / 510L Clinical Anatomy II 2PHA 542 Clinical Pharmacotherapeutics II 2IPE 509 Research & Evidence-based Practice 3

Total Credits: 19

Semester 3PHA 503 Clinical Medicine III 3PHA 527 / 527L Clinical Skills III 2BIO 511 / 511L Clinical Anatomy III 2PHA 545 Clinical Pharmacotherapeutics III 1PHA 551 Introduction to Masters Project I 1PHA 513 Clinical Pathophysiology & Lab IIl 2

Total Credits: 11Semester 4PHA 504 Clinical Medicine IV 4PHA 528 / 528L Clinical Skills IV 2PHA 552 Introduction to Masters Project II 1IPE 507 Ethical & Legal Practice in Healthcare 3PHA 601 Internal Medicine Rotation I 3PHA 602 Internal Medicine Rotation II 3

Total Credits: 16Semester 5PHA 603 Primary Care Rotation I 3PHA 604 Primary Care Rotation II 3PHA 605 Pediatrics Rotation 3PHA 606 Women’s Health Rotation 3PHA 607 General Orthopedic Rotation 3PHA 553 Introduction to Masters Project III 1

Total Credits: 16Semester 6PHA 608 General Surgery Rotation 3PHA 609 Psychiatry Rotation 3PHA 611 Emergency Medicine Rotation 3PHA 554 Introduction to Masters Project IV 1

Total Credits: 10Semester 7PHA 612 Elective Rotation 3PHA 613 Elective Rotation 3PHA 621 Masters Capstone 4

Total Credits: 10Total Credits: 100

Credits from Non-PA Courses: 12Credits from PA Courses: 88

Non-Discrimination Policy

Jefferson College of Health Sciences does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, national origin, religion, or political affiliation in accordance with the requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and all other applicable rules and regulations. Anyone having questions concerning any of those regulations, should contact the Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Office:


Ms. Anna Millirons, Dean of Administrative Services (Phone: 540-985-8530)Jefferson College of Health Sciences 920 S. Jefferson Street PO Box 13186 Roanoke, VA 24031-3186

Individuals with disabilities desiring accommodations in the application process should contact the Center for Academic Success at 540-985-8449 or the Dean for Student Services at 540-985-8501.

Advisors

Each student is assigned a faculty advisor at the beginning of the first year. The role of the advisor is to meet with the student on a regular basis, to assist the student directly if possible, or refer to an appropriate College resource when student issues arise that are either academic or nonacademic.

Each student will meet with their faculty advisor each semester. Additional meetings may be scheduled as the need arises. In addition to meeting with students to review academic performance and issues, advisors will also assess the students on professional behaviors. Students are also encouraged to meet with other faculty members informally for course-specific advising.

Communication

Change in Name, Address, Phone NumbersReport any change in name, address, and telephone numbers to the Registrar’s Office and Program secretary in writing or via email immediately.

Email AccountsStudents are assigned an email account by the College and are responsible for checking College email daily for important messages from faculty, staff, administration, and other students. No program email will be sent to non-college accounts and students should email faculty only through college accounts. Students on clinical rotations should continue to check their email daily.Students should respond to emails promptly.

MailboxesEach student is assigned a mailbox in room 205, the PA mailroom. Check your mailbox daily for program-related materials.

FaxThe program has a dedicated fax machine. The number is 540-224-4551. The fax machine is not available for personal use. If a students needs to use the fax machine for JCHS PA-related business, see the Program secretary.

BlackboardA significant amount of communication with students is handled through Blackboard, the web-based software program utilized by the College. Syllabi, objectives and course materials are available to students through the program.

In-House WebsiteThe program has its own website (www.ruralhealth.jchs.edu/pa/). Check the site for the PA calendar and announcements.


http://www.ruralhealth.jchs.edu/pa/

Tuition, Fees and Equipment

See the JCHS Catalog for complete list of fees.

The tuition for the PA Program is announced prior to the start of each academic year and is subject to change without notice.

Acceptance DepositThe $500 deposit serves as a confirmation of your intent to enroll and is applied to the cost of attendance upon enrollment.

Billing ProcedureEach student will receive an invoice of charges for each semester or summer session:

Payment of College expenses is the responsibility of the student. All charges are due on the date stated on the invoice for returning students. All tuition, fees and residence hall charges must be paid prior to class attendance.

The student must clear his or her account by the due date stated on the invoice in order to maintain valid registration.

Students receiving financial aid will receive an award letter from the Office of Financial Aid. If charges exceed the financial aid award, payment is expected prior to the due date stated on the invoice. If the financial aid award exceeds the charges, the student will receive a refund for the excess amount.

Refunds, which are processed after the last day to add/drop courses, will be mailed unless otherwise requested by the student.

PA Program Estimated Expenses - 2009-2011Year 1

August 2009-July 2010

Year 2August 2010-

July 2011

Year 3August 2011-

December 2011

TotalTuition

Tuition $26,880 $23,520* $5,600* $56,000*($560*/credit)

* based on 2009-2010 tuition rate. This amount is subject to change.

Please Note: The Didactic Phase (Classroom) starts in August and goes into the second Academic Year and ends in October of the following year. The Clinical Phase (Rotations) begins

in November of the second Academic Year and ends in December of the third Academic YearOther

Expenses (Estimated)Didactic YearAugust 2008-October 2009

Clinical YearNovember 2009-December 2010

Total Other Expenses

Books, Medical Equipment & Supplies,

Laptop Computer & Printer

$4,019 $880 $4,899

Professional Dues $125 - $125Travel for PA Lobby

Day$150 - $150

Transportation for Clinical Experiences &

Rotations

$500* $7,150* $7,650

* based on current gas rates, subject to change.Total $4,794 $8,030 $12,824


The Didactic Phase (Classroom) starts in August and goes into the second Academic Year and ends in October. The Clinical Phase (Rotations) begins in November of the second Academic Year and ends in December of the third Academic Year.

Variable costs Living expenses: These vary according to the student’s personal needs and tastes. There

is some housing available at the College; the cost is $2,350 for Fall and Spring semester and $1,300 for Summer semester; plus an additional $1,155 per semester for the meal plan.

Health Insurance: All students are required to have health insurance; this cost varies according to the type of plan the student has.

Conference travel: Optional attendance at the National Conference is estimated to cost $1,500.

PDA: with software costs is $500.00.


Tuition RefundWithdrawal Date Refund

Before the first day of class 100% with no administrative fee

On or after the first day of classand on or before last date to drop 100%, less $100 administrative fee with a refundAfter last day to drop No refund

1098-T InformationA 1098-T will be mailed to students in January. The 1098-T informs the student of the possibility of a tax credit. The amount of eligible charges, along with scholarships and grants are provided on each 1098-T. It is the student's responsibility to determine eligibility for the tax credit.

Students with questions regarding payment processes should contact the Bursar’s office (Reid Center room 406) at 540-985-8272.

EquipmentFirst-year students are required to obtain the medical equipment listed in their post-matriculation materials. During orientation, the Program brings vendors on campus to demonstrate various brands of equipment. Vendors may give the students a group discount, but you are not obligated to purchase from these vendors. Estimated cost is $800-1,000, depending on type, brand, and quality. The College assumes no financial responsibility for this equipment.

Required medical equipment includes a stethoscope, blood pressure cuff, oto-ophthalmoscope, reflex hammer, C-28 tuning fork and C-512 tuning fork, tape measure, penlight, pocket eye chart and scissors for class and during your rotations.

The following are items that a well-dressed PA student has available at all times:short jacket with many pockets stethoscope penlight(s)oto- & ophthalmoscope pneumatic bulb glovesdisposable ear specula reflex hammer measuring tapetuning forks pocket eye chart safety pinstongue depressors pens & pencils ECG calipersbandage scissors various guidescotton tipped swabs bottle with strong-smelling substancessterile lubricant packs scrubs

Personal ComputersEach student is required to purchase a laptop computer. A purchase plan through Dell computers is available through the College. The PA curriculum uses computers to deliver academic material during classes, especially through the Program’s website and Blackboard, to create a medical resource database, to access material on the Internet, to administer exams, and to transfer information during clinical rotations. Students are responsible for purchasing and maintaining their computer.

Other ExpensesStudents are responsible for paying for books, travel, parking, housing, living expenses, and meals, whether they are at the College or at a clinical site. There may be additional fees related to clinical experiences, such as the fee for a background check before starting clinical rotations.

Additional fees may include:Background check prior to clinical year $60-$100Captain Sean Grimes PA Student Society $20/semesterVAPA (Virginia Academy of Physician Assistants $10/yearAAPA (American Academy of Physician Assistants) $75/2 years


Transportation and HousingThe clinical year of the Program consists of clinical sites at hospitals and other healthcare facilities primarily throughout Southwest Virginia. Students will provide transportation to clinical sites and classroom activities. Students are responsible for housing during all phases of the Program. The Program will attempt to assist with identifying housing when a student is assigned to a remote clinical site, but this cannot be guaranteed.

Health and Required Documentation

Health History, Physical Exam and ImmunizationsEntering students must complete the Required College Health Information and Forms packet that is mailed prior to the fall semester. This packet includes:

Report of Medical History Physical Exam Form Immunization Record – Failure to secure adequate immunizations will prohibit students

from participating in required clinical rotations. Proof of these immunizations or titers must be provided (Contact Student Services for more information):

Tetanus-Diphtheria MMR Tuberculosis (PPD) - Annually Polio Hepatitis B Varicella Bacterial meningitis (Required of students in Residence Hall)

Statement of Continued Health Responsibility Emergency Contact Information Health Insurance Information Drug Testing Information Meningitis Letter and Waiver of Immunization against Meningococcal Disease Proof of CPR Certification – Each student is required to complete and maintain CPR

certification throughout enrollment. CPR certification must include two-man, child and infant CPR commonly referred to as Healthcare Provider CPR. Carilion Health System, Red Cross and the American Hearth Association offer courses and re-certification in these three techniques. Certification that does not include all three techniques will not be acceptable.

Background Check Carilion Clinic Student Orientation Independent Study

A student will have a “hold” placed on their account blocking ability to register for classes and/or to attend a clinical experience if he or she has not completed and turned in all of the required documentation.

Each student will have a confidential health record maintained in the office of the Dean for Student Services.

Health InsurancePA students are required to maintain health insurance throughout your training.

Student Malpractice InsuranceThe College maintains malpractice insurance that covers PA students on clinical experiences and rotations. However, students are not recognized as covered if they are in a practice setting that has not been arranged by or through the Program.


SafetyObserve standard precautions during laboratory and clinical skills training and during all patient contacts during the didactic and clinical year. Students are required to report any needle stick or other mucocutaneous exposure immediately to both the facility where it occurred and the PA Program, using appropriate incident reporting forms. The student should then follow the protocol of the institution in which the incident occurred. Students are not covered under Workman’s Compensation; they must have their own health insurance.

Blood Borne Pathogens Exposure ProcedureAn exposure is an injury (cut, stick, or scrape) with a contaminated instrument (needles, blades, or other sharps), OR mucous membrane (eyes, inside mouth or nose) contact with blood or bloody body fluids, OR bloody/body fluid contact of an OPEN wound or NON-INTACT skin.

Protocol

What Is An Accidental Exposure?An exposure is (1) an injury (cut, stick, or scrape) with a contaminated instrument (needle, blade or other sharp), OR (2) mucous membrane (eyes, inside mouth or nose) contact with blood or bloody body fluids, OR (3) blood or body fluid contact of an OPEN wound or NON-INTACT skin.

If you have an exposure to blood or body fluids, you should: Wash area thoroughly with soap and water (if eye splash, rinse with saline). Report to your instructor/preceptor immediately. Report immediately to the nearest Emergency Room, Carilion Urgent Care,

Employee Health Office or Carilion Occupational Medicine during business hours.o CRCH, 1st floor—Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM-4 PM (540-224-4411)o CRMH, 5 South—Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM-4 PM (540-981-7813)o Occupational Medicine, 1st Floor CRCH—Monday-Friday, 8 AM- 4:30 PM (540-985-8529)

During off hours, weekends, and holidays, proceed to the nearest Carilion Emergency Department and advise them you have had an exposure to blood or body fluids to facilitate quick response. Follow up with Employee Health, Occupational Medicine and your College Program Director the next business day to ensure appropriate care.

Students in non-Carilion facilities should follow the steps above and complete the forms required by the institution where the incident occurred.

Complete and Event Report (see appendix A). As a student on rotation, you are considered an employee. These forms are available from the College Physical Plant/Safety Officer in the Student Affairs Suite, Fourth Floor, CRCH or the Dean of Administrative Services in the Administrative Suite, Third Floor, CRCH, or the Security Lobby Desk.

Be sure the Program gets copies of everything, including any follow-up work done. The Program office keeps a copy and gives a copy to the College Safety Officer.

The College is not responsible for any bills created by an accidental exposure incident. We require students to have medical insurance in case this occurs. These guideline apply to both didactic and clinical training.

Health Care FacilitiesStudents with health problems are referred to Carilion facilities or the CRMH Emergency Department. Students may also choose where they wish to be seen under their own insurance policy. Two Carilion Family Medicine offices are listed below that may provide health care services for you. When making an appointment at either of these offices, tell the office staff that you are a JCHS student and this may facilitate a quicker appointment:


Carilion Roanoke – Salem Family Practice For appointment call: 540-562-57001314 Peters Creek Road, Roanoke, VA 24017

Directions: Take Jefferson Ave. to Elm Avenue. Take I-581 North for approximately 5.5 miles. Take Peters Creek Rd. exit 2-S. Follow Peters Creek Road approximately 2.5 miles. The office is located next to Parker’s Seafood.


Carilion Family Medicine – Southeast For appointment call: 540-427-92002145 Mt. Pleasant Blvd. SE, Roanoke, VA 24014

Directions: Take Jefferson Avenue south (toward CRMH). Turn left onto Walnut Avenue. Take an immediate left (after crossing bridge) onto Piedmont St., SE. Take the first right onto Riverland Road (this become Mt. Pleasant Blvd.), go approximately 1.5 miles. Carilion Family Medicine is across from Food Lion.

Student Disability Discrimination Complaint ProcessSee the JCHS Catalog.

Outside Employment

The Physician Assistant Program is an extremely challenging and time-intensive educational experience. Successful completion requires that you give Program-related activities the highest priority. The Program strongly discourages outside employment for a student enrolled in the PA Program. Students should make every attempt to secure adequate financial assistance before entering the Program. Financial difficulties are not grounds for special academic consideration.

Outside employment is not an acceptable excuse for violation of the attendance policy, nor should employment interfere with a satisfactory level of student performance in program activities. If outside employment interferes with performance, the student may be referred to SEPC.

A potential conflict of interest may occur when a clinical training site is also the student’s place of employment. In such cases, the student may be reassigned. In no case will a student’s training overlap with employment, and in no case will a student be permitted to substitute for a bona fide employee during his or her clinical training.

It is imperative that the program be able to contact a student at all times, a copy of the student’s work schedule and a phone number when he or she can be reach must be filed with the Program secretary.

A Physician Assistant student will not work for the program at any time during enrollment in the program.

Student Substance Abuse Policy

As an institution of higher learning in the health sciences, the College is dedicated to leading the way in the implementation of an effective program to prevent substance abuse. The College’s policy is established in compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 (P.L. 101-226), as amended by Public Law 100-297, and the Improving America’s School Act of 1994, (P.L. 103-382). The phrase “drugs and alcohol” includes any substance that is subject to abuse.

The abuse of alcohol, drugs or other substances by College students is unacceptable. Substance abuse can be evidenced in many ways but most frequently involves a lack of self-control that results in disruptive behavior or an individual harming him/herself or others. Students, who appear to be abusers, as identified by College officials, have two choices: they may either be assessed and, if recommended, participate in subsequent treatment; or they may be dismissed from the institution. (See the JCHS Student Handbook for complete Alcohol and Drug Policies.)

Technology

Student Technology Use Policies


Student technology use policies ensure that all students have access to important technology resources and electronically delivered communication. Jefferson College of Health Sciences reserves the right to limit, restrict or extend computing privileges and access to its technology resources. All College technology resources are to be used in a responsible, efficient, ethical and legal manner. Failure to adhere to these policies may result in suspension or revocation of access and/or accounts. Questions or comments about these policies should be directed to the Dean for Technology Services.

One Jefferson Account PolicyThe College will issue a One Jefferson account to all accepted students at no cost. This account provides a username and password and the same naming structure for this account is utilized to access student email, IQ.Web (the student information system) and Blackboard (the course management system). Students are expected to utilize all three systems during their enrollment at Jefferson College of Health Sciences and are responsible for content and information provided through these systems.

Protection of AccountsAccounts for access to technology resources must be protected by the student by changing the initial password to a unique password known only to the individual student. Technology staff cannot see individual passwords, but do have access to reset accounts as necessary. Students forgetting account passwords may request they be reset by contacting Distance Learning and Instructional Technology staff. Students are responsible for appropriately logging out of all accounts to prevent unauthorized access.

Misuse of AccountsExamples of misuse of accounts include, but are not limited to:

Permitting other persons to use their usernames, passwords, accounts or disclosing usernames, passwords or account information to any third party.

Logging on to someone else's account. Changing or deleting another user's account. Attempting to gain unauthorized access (hacking) to the files or computer systems of any

other person or organization. Using any account for commercial purposes or personal gain.

Misuse of technology accounts may result in disciplinary action and/or criminal prosecution.

Printers and Copiers for Student UseThere are two computer labs located on the College campus. The JCHS Library on the 6th floor has 16 computers. These computers are available for use during library hours.

The Educational Technology Center (ETC) on the 5th floor in room 520 has 12 computers available for use. Ten of the computers are available for use 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In addition, another computer with Adobe Suite Software, scanner and CD burner is available during ETC staffed hours. Check with the Distance Learning and Instructional Technology office for hours.

A copier is available in the JCHS Library at a cost of 10¢ per page. Printing is free, bring your own paper.

For Program, educational or business purposes, please see the Program Secretary for copies. All copies must conform to the U.S. copyright laws and restrictions relative to fair use.

ComputersClass time cannot be used to surf the Internet (Facebook, etc.), email, or instant message. Instructors will ask you to turn off your computer if you are surfing the Internet during lectures. Students who use


their computers for personal reasons during class risk losing the privilege to use them. Refrain from placing any unprofessional images as screen savers or backgrounds on your laptop.

Downloading from the InternetUse utmost care in downloading files from the Internet. Be aware that anything you download onto your PC can have adverse effects on the ability of the PC to function correctly. Seemingly “safe” things such as emails, animations, screen savers, games, and music can cause irreversible damage to your system software. At a minimum, these will use system resources that will slow down the overall performance of your PC. Scan all files with an updated anti-virus program prior to installation or execution. Peer-to-peer file-sharing networks are frequently illegal and are discouraged. Never believe anything you see in a pop-up window. Never install anything advertised in a pop-up window.

BlackboardA significant amount of communication with students is handled through Blackboard, the web-based software program utilized by the College. Syllabi, objectives and course materials are available to students through the program.

IQ.Web (This will be changing soon)Developed by SunGard Higher Education, IQ.Web is an Internet software system designed to provide students, faculty, administrators and other members of an educational institution's learning community with "anytime, anywhere" access to information services. The student role of IQ.Web allows active students to develop an academic plan, register and pay for classes, review transcripts, grades, review health record and interact with faculty, advisors and other students.

Use of Educational MaterialsLecturers may provide PowerPoint presentations and other educational materials to students. These materials are for educational purposes only and must not be reproduced or shared with persons outside the Program. Inappropriate use could be considered infringement of copyright law.

Rules Related to the Physician Assistant Program Facilities

PA ClassroomThis classroom is for you. It is incumbent on everyone to keep the classroom neat and clean. Many guests will be in the classroom for lectures and presentations. There will be patients coming in and out of the hospital where the classroom is located. HIPAA training will cover the issues of patient confidentiality. Please abide by these regulations.

The classroom will be available from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Under no circumstances are non-students permitted to be in the classroom.

Textbooks will be kept in the JCHS LIBRARY for your use. Please do not remove them.

A refrigerator and microwave is available for your use. There will be a supply of drinks and snacks for guest lecturers that are not for general consumption.

Open drink containers are not allowed in the classroom.

Although Carilion provides a cleaning service, it is important that each student take a role in ensuring that trash is placed in appropriate containers and areas are straightened after use. Each class is responsible for creating and maintaining a cleaning schedule for the student lounge. Please ensure all leftovers are removed from the refrigerator in a timely manner. The microwave and other appliances must be kept clean and all dishes be washed and out of the sink area daily. General guidelines for the Clinical Skills Lab will be addressed in class.

A cafeteria is located on the 4th floor where students can congregate for lunch.


There are available study areas throughout the campus. The college administrative office areas adjacent to the classroom are not available for congregation or studying.

Personal EffectsThe Program is not responsible for personal effects. See the Security Guard in the lobby of the Reid Center for Lost and Found.

SafetyFor Carilion Police and All Other Emergencies: Dial 981-7911 or from a College or Hospital telephone 8-7911. (See the JCHS Student Handbook for safety on the college campus.)SecurityThe College and surrounding parking lots are patrolled by Carilion Clinic police officers 24 hours a day. A security officer is on College premises 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Each floor is monitored via closed-circuit security cameras, and a residence staff person is on call 24 hours a day to assist residents with any problems.

Smoking/TobaccoJefferson College of Health Sciences and all Carilion facilities are tobacco-free.

ParkingAll motor vehicles (automobiles, motorcycles and motorized scooters) must be registered with the Campus Safety Office immediately upon bringing the vehicle to campus by obtaining a parking permit.

Students are required to park in designated student parking areas only. Students are allowed to park in the Carilion Roanoke Community Parking Garage on levels B and D only. Students are not allowed to park in the parking lot behind the college.

Vehicles parked illegally or overnight due to mechanical problems must be reported immediately to the Carilion Police Department (540-981-7911) day or night or a violation may be issued.

(See the JCHS Student Handbook for complete parking and transportation policies and procedures.)

Transfer and Credit for Experiential Learning

The PA Program does not allow for the transfer of course credit from other institutions. All courses in the curriculum must be taken at JCHS and in sequence.

The program does not offer academic credit for experiential learning.

Evaluation of Student Performance

Didactic YearEvaluation of student work is based on written multiple-choice or essay questions, oral and written reports, oral and written reviews of the medical literature, performance of clinical skills, participation in group work, and assessment of patients. Frequency and types of evaluation vary among courses. Specific requirements are indicated in the course syllabi. Use the American Psychological Association (APA) style in written assignments unless otherwise instructed.

PACKRATThe Physician Assistant Clinical Knowledge Rating and Assessment Tool (PACKRAT) developed by the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA) is utilized to evaluate students during


the didactic and clinical phase of their PA education and to better prepare students for taking the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE).

This test will be administered to students twice.

The first administration of the PACKRAT will be at the end of the didactic year. This test will demonstrate strengths and weaknesses in each student’s clinical knowledge. The results will be used by the student to direct their studying during the remainder of the program. The second administration of the PACKRAT will be near the end of the program, as a part of the Summative Evaluation process.

Test Administration Policy

The testing policy and procedures preserve the integrity and fairness of all examinations. No student will be permitted any advantage not afforded to every student. This is established in accordance with the NCCPA/PANCE and the National Board of Medical Examiners format for standardized medical testing. It is important to become familiar with our testing procedures as you will experience the same procedures for your national certification exam.

Students must take exams at the scheduled date and time. Any unavoidable absences must be reported to the program secretary and course instructor prior to examination time or, if in the event of an emergency, as soon as possible. (Please review the Attendance Policy on page 12). Any unexcused absence results in a "Failure" for that exam. The student will take the missed exam as soon as he or she returns to school. For example, if a student misses an exam scheduled for a Thursday at 1:00 and then returns to school Friday morning, he or she will make up that exam Friday before attending any classes. Arrangement must be made with the instructor No extra time will be given to prepare for the exam. Some instructors may not allow make-up exams under any circumstances. Students who miss an exam are not to seek any assistance from students who have taken the exam. Likewise, students who have taken the exam are forbidden from sharing any information about the exam. Refer to the College Honor Code. Instructors have the prerogative to impose additional and different exam policies. Refer to the individual course syllabus.

All examinations must be completed during the specified time limit unless otherwise arranged ahead of time. An Examination Session is defined as the time period between the start time of a particular exam or set of exams and the time at which all students have completed that exam or set of exams. In general, you will be given one minute per exam question.

Staff and/or faculty may monitor the testing. This monitoring might take the form of electronic monitoring or by physical presence in the examination room. Students observed engaging in possible violation of test administration rules or other forms of irregular behavior will not necessarily be told of the observation at the time of the exam (See irregular behavior below). The student will be notified of any irregularities noted and/or the need for an Honor Council investigation or SEPC referral within 5 school days of the incident. Students who witness other students cheating or engaging in irregular behavior should follow the procedure outlined in the College Student Handbook and report the incident to the Dean for Student Services.

The following procedures should be followed:1. All students will be seated at the announced exam time.2. Most exams will be given on your personal computer. No personal belongings are

allowed on the desk (Including but not limited to book bags, books, study materials, calculators, PDA’s, cell phones, ipods/MP3’s, or headphones.

3. No food or beverages are permitted during testing. Water in a clear plastic container is allowed.

4. No communication among test takers is permitted once distribution of testing materials has begun.


5. Habitually late students may be denied entry to the exam room and will therefore fail the exam.

6. For paper tests, it is the student’s responsibility to properly mark the answers and identification information on each exam answer sheet. Any questionable or unreadable answers will be marked incorrect. Failure to accurately fill in identification information (name, SSN, test form) may prevent a student from receiving credit for test scores.

7. Do not turn over, view, or begin the exam until instructed to do so.8. Time limits for the exam will be announced and strictly enforced. (Note: the NCCPA

traditionally allows 45 seconds per question.) When time is complete, you must STOP. 9. Proctors will not answer questions pertaining to the exam content during testing. 10. Turn off all beepers, phones, or other communication devices during testing.11. Students may make calculations and notes on the original exam. The exam questions

must be turned in to the proctor at the end of the exam. For computerized examinations, blank paper may be used to make notes; however, the notes must be turned in at the completion of the examination.

12. Students are permitted to go to the restroom, unescorted, one at a time. Permission must be granted by the proctor and breaks are limited to 5 minutes

13. Students will not be given extra time to transfer answers from the test to the answer sheet.

14. Exams are timed, and all exams begin at the scheduled time. A student who has been delayed may be admitted to the exam up to 15 minutes after the session has started at the discretion of the instructor, however, will not be given extra time to complete the exam.

15. Upon completion of the exam, give the testing materials to the proctor and exit the room as quietly as possible. Do not engage the instructor, proctors, or other students in conversation. The student MAY NOT return to the room for any reason until the testing session is over.

16. Most tests will be given electronically on Blackboard. If you experience computer issues during the exam you need to inform the exam proctor. It is important to follow these general guidelines when taking an electronic exam:

a. Save your answers frequently. Do not take the entire exam and hit “submit” without saving your answers.

b. Report any technical problems to the exam proctor.

The faculty will not discuss the test in general or any specific question until grading is completed and test analysis performed. Grades will be placed in student mailboxes or communicated electronically as soon as is feasible after the examination. Students who pester the faculty and staff about the test are subject to a possible 5-point penalty on the grade.

Irregular BehaviorIrregular behavior is any behavior that undermines or threatens the integrity of the examination, whether it occurs before, during or after an exam.

Irregular behavior includes, but is not limited to, having or seeking access to exam materials before the exam, copying answers from someone else or allowing one’s answers to be copied, having study guides or notes present in the exam area, making notes during a computer-based exam administration, copying or reproducing test items, altering or misrepresenting scores, stealing exam materials, possessing unauthorized materials during a computer-based exam (e.g., including, but not limited to, recording devices, photographic materials, reference material, etc.) or other such behavior which may cast doubt on the exam results of that or another person. Disruptive behavior is also considered irregular behavior.

The content of the examination and each of its items, is strictly confidential, and any unauthorized retention, possession, copying, distribution, disclosure, or receipt of any examination question, in whole or in part, by written, electronic, oral or other form of communication, including but not


limited to e-mailing, copying or printing of electronic files, and reconstruction through memorization and/or dictation, before, during, or after an examination, is strictly prohibited.

Anyone who has information or evidence that irregular behavior has occurred should complete an “Alleged Academic Misconduct” form located on the Student Society Blackboard Site (see appendix D) detailing the incident, along with copies of any supporting evidence or documentation. Effort should be made to present this material only to the Dean for Student Services to protect the rights of the accused and allow for a proper investigation of the complaint.

Test Exam ChallengesChallenges to test questions will be allowed, only in writing, and only with documentation from the assigned reading. Challenges must be submitted to the course instructor within 48 hours of the return of the grades to the students, using the form on the PA on Blackboard (see Appendix C). Decision of the instructor about a test question challenge is final.


Grading Scale

93-100 A 4.000 Satisfactory/Passing

90-92 A- 3.700 Satisfactory/Passing87-89 B+ 3.300 Satisfactory/Passing83-86 B 3.000 Satisfactory/Passing82-80 B- 2.700 Satisfactory/Passing77-79 C+ 2.300 Marginal*/Passing73-76 C 2.000 Marginal*/Passing70-72 C- 1.700 Marginal*/Passing67-69 D+ 1.300 Unsatisfactory/Failing63-66 D 1.000 Unsatisfactory/Failing60-62 D- 0.700 Unsatisfactory/Failing<60 F 0.000 Unsatisfactory/Failing

Special Grading SymbolsI 0.000 Course Work IncompleteIE 0.000 Incomplete ExtendedNJ 0.000 No JudgmentW 0.000 Student Withdrawal

*Although a C may be considered passing for a course, students must maintain a 3.00 average in their degree program and present a 3.00 GPA on the courses listed on the graduation application. A Student with a GPA below the minimum required will be placed on academic probation. Please refer to the JCHS Graduate Handbook.

Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 to progress in a graduate program. A student who falls below a cumulative GPA of 3.0 will be placed on academic probation. Students who do not successfully earn a semester GPA of 3.0 in all subsequent semesters while on probation will be dismissed from the program. Students on academic probation must meet with their financial aid representatives to determine how this status impacts their financial aid awards.

Graduate faculty and the Provost and Dean for Academic Affairs administer these standards.(See JCHS Graduate Handbook.)

JCHS Testing Accommodation PolicyAny student with a disability who needs accommodations (including testing accommodations) should be ready to provide documentation of their disability and should make an appointment with the Coordinator of Disability Services. Appointments can be made by calling 540-985-8395. Students must follow this procedure to arrange accommodations. For more information see information for students with disabilities on the college website (www.jchs.edu).

Test ReviewResults of exams are made available to students in a manner that maintains confidentiality. Students have an opportunity to review all tests and exams with the instructor either individually or in a group after grades are posted. Exams will not be returned to students. They will be retained in the office until graduation; students may review old exams in the Program office.

Students who perform poorly on an exam or other evaluation instrument are strongly encouraged to contact the instructor to review content and test-taking skills.

Faculty members have office hours for pre-exam consultation to review course material and for post-exam consultation to review performance. Faculty members also make reasonable accommodations to meet students at other times on an appointment or walk-in basis.

Submitting Assignments


Most instructors prefer that assignments be posted on Backboard. They may also want the student to place a hard copy in their faculty box in the PA office. The course syllabus will indicate the instructor’s preference. Maintain a copy of all work submitted.

Late AssignmentsLate assignments are always bad. Discuss with your instructor, prior to the due date, any emergency that may prevent on-time completion of an assignment. Again, students are urged to check the course syllabus for the instructor’s policy on late assignments.

Remediation PolicyRefer to the course syllabus for the remediation policy of the instructor.

Student Progress

To remain in good academic standing in the PA Program, the student must:1. Maintain a current and cumulative GPA of 3.0 as outlined in the JCHS Student

Handbook.2. Earn a minimum grade of “C-” in any course. (For clinical rotations, refer to the Clinical

Year Manual. All rotations must be passed with “C-” or better as well.) Any grade below a “C-” is considered failing.

3. Exhibit satisfactory evidence of professional behaviors, technical standards and interpersonal skills as outlined in the JCHS Student Handbook and the PA Student Handbook.

4. Have a passing grade on all proficiency exams (OSCE’s, check sheets) as determined by the faculty instructor.

Failure to achieve the above criteria shall be grounds for actions by the Student Evaluation and Promotion Committee (SEPC). Actions can include probation, tutoring, remediating, repeating a course, or dismissal from the Program.

DismissalA student will be dismissed from the program for any of the following:

Failing more than one course. Earning a GPA below 3.0 in any semester while on probation. Failing a course while on probation, regardless of overall GPA. Exhibiting unprofessional behavior.

Students who are dismissed from the Program may reapply in the future. Applicants must follow the stated application procedures to be considered for readmission.

ProbationA student will be placed on academic probation for either of the following:

Having a cumulative GPA below 3.0. Earning a failing grade at any time regardless of overall GPA.

A student must maintain a 3.0 on the overall GPA to remain in good academic standing. A student cannot graduate with a GPA of less than 3.0. If a student drops below a 3.0, that student will be placed on academic probation per graduate program policy. Students placed on academic probation will be notified at the end of each semester per the Office of the Provost and Dean for Academic Affairs. The student on academic probation will be enrolled in the Pathways to Academic Success (PASS) program. Failure to follow-up with the referral may result in further academic sanctions. Students will also meet with their PA faculty advisor.

A student on academic probation must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or above for each semester while he/she remains on probation. If a student on probation fails to achieve a semester GPA of 3.0 or above while on probation, he/she will be dismissed. If a student fails a course while on probation, he/she will be dismissed. However, if a student raises his/her cumulative GPA above 3.0, he/she


will no longer be on academic probation. It is possible for a student to come off probation and then be placed back on probation if his/her cumulative GPA again drops below 3.0.

A student cannot progress to the next semester without resolving a failing grade. A student earning a failing grade will be placed on academic probation and an individualized remediation plan will be developed. A student who earns a failing grade must enroll in and pay for an Independent Study course (PHA 575). Credit hours will vary, with objectives and evaluation determined by the faculty member responsible for the course. If the student successfully passes PHA 575, he/she will be allowed to progress to the next semester.

A student may have a failing grade in only a single course. Failing two courses will result in dismissal. Thus, if a student is required to take PHA 575 to remediate a failed course, but does not pass, that second failing grade will result in the student being dismissed from the program.

The SEPC committee is charged with ensuring compliance with the above academic and professional policies. The committee considers specific deficiencies on a case by case basis with considerations of the student’s overall academic, clinical and professional performance. SEPC provides a written report detailing the specific nature of deficiencies and the rationale for recommendation to the Program Director who will make the final decision. Appeals of the Program Director’s decisions are forwarded to the Dean for Academic Affairs, as outlined in the Student Grievance Procedure and Appeal Process in the JCHS Student Handbook.

Disciplinary Procedures1. When disciplinary matters present themselves in the Program they will be initially

discussed between the appropriate faculty member and the student. Generally a verbal warning will be given.

2. If the situation is not resolved, reoccurs or if similar behavior occurs, a written reprimand will be issued and will be a part of the student’s permanent file. In cases where behavioral issues are major or ongoing, the student will be referred to SEPC for further actions as appropriate. The sanctions may include behavioral contracts, probation and/or dismissal from the Program.

3. The recommendations from SEPC are forwarded to the Program Director for a final decision.

4. The student may appeal the decision as outlined in the JCHS Student Handbook.

Comprehensive Summative EvaluationNear the end of the clinical phase, each student will undergo a Comprehensive Summative Evaluation process. The purpose of this is to assess the relative strengths and weaknesses of each student and to ascertain if the student meets the expected competencies needed for a practicing PA. The summative evaluation takes into account the affective, professional and cognitive abilities of the student. Much of this process is accomplished throughout the year on an on-going basis. For example, professionalism, medical knowledge, critical thinking will be measured on an on-going basis during the clinical rotations. Those comments will be highlighted on this form. There are several sentinel events that contribute to the evaluation including the OSCE and PACKRAT. The summative evaluation builds upon the didactic evaluation process.

The summative evaluation will help to validate that the student has met the published Program Graduate Competencies.

The summative evaluation process will include all the following educational measures:

1. PACKRAT 1 and PACKRAT 2:Medical knowledge


2. OSCE:Patient communication Medical knowledgeProfessionalismPatient-centered care

3. EOR Exams:Medical/knowledge

4. Preceptor Evaluations:Patient communication Medical knowledgeProfessionalismPatient-centered care

5. Masters Project and Capstone:Patient-centered carePractice-based learning and improvementSystems-based practice

Course and Program Evaluation

At the end of each semester, the student will be requested to evaluate the teaching overall effectiveness of each course and faculty member.

As part of our on-going accreditation, the results are used by the faculty and College administration as part of a self-evaluation. This helps the Program make changes and ongoing improvements to the curriculum.

At the end of the didactic and clinical year, the faculty will conduct focus groups with students for in-depth discussions on program effectiveness.

During the didactic-phase the Program Director will meet with students on a monthly basis lending an opportunity to discuss various issues that arise during the course of study. Each student’s advisor is available to meet with them at all times.

Within one year after graduation, the College will mail PA graduates and their employers surveys for evaluating the overall effectiveness of the JCHS Physician Assistant Program.

Graduation

Application for graduationIt is the student’s responsibility to be aware of progress toward the degree. Students must file an Application for Graduation form with the Registrar’s Office two semesters before the date of graduation. This form can be found on the college website (www.jchs.edu) under Registrar.

Graduation requirements Students may receive a graduate degree only after meeting all of their program requirements. A cumulative grade point average of 3.00 or better is required by all programs for completion of a graduate degree.


http://www.jchs.edu/

Captain Sean Grimes Physician Assistant Student Societyof the American Association of Physician Assistants

CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS We, the students of the Physician Assistant Program at the Jefferson College of Health Sciences, realize that through formal organization, we can benefit ourselves, our program, and our community. It is for this reason that we have established the Captain Sean Grimes Physician Assistant Student Society of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA). In all aspects of its function, this society will pursue integrity, equality, dignity, and competence for the physician assistant as a health practitioner.

ARTICLE I. Name

The name and title of this organization shall be the Captain Sean Grimes Physician Assistant Student Society, herein referred to as the Student Society.

ARTICLE II. Purpose

The purpose of the Student Society shall be to serve as the official organization for the students in order to promote academic achievement, clinical excellence, community involvement, and the physician assistant as a member of the health care delivery team.

ARTICLE III. Membership

Section 1. Only physician assistant students enrolled in the program shall be eligible for membership.

Section 2. Active members shall be defined as full-time students, paying dues of $25 for Fall semester and $25 for Spring semester of the first year, and retaining voting privileges. Inactive members shall be defined as students who have left the program in good standing, or who no longer pay dues; inactive members are ineligible to vote. If second-year students want to remain active voting members, they must pay dues for the Fall and Spring semesters of the 2nd year.

Section 3. Students leaving the program for any reason shall retain membership in the Student Society for the remainder of the current academic year but shall be designated as inactive members.

Section 4. It shall be encouraged, but not required, that Society members become active members of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) and of the Virginia Academy of Physician Assistants (VAPA). However, officers are required to be student members of the AAPA.

ARTICLE IV. Dues and Fees

Section 1. Upon payment of the Student Society dues, students will become active members of the Student Society.

Section 2. Dues are due by the second formal meeting of the Student Society for the Fall and Spring semesters of the first year. Any dues left unpaid or partially paid will inactivate the member until such time as all dues are paid in full.


Section 3. Inactive members, as defined in Article III, Section 2, are ineligible for benefits of funds raised by the Student Society, as described in Article X, Section 3.

ARTICLE V. Officers and Their Duties

Section 1. All officers shall be first-year students, except the HOD representative, who shall be the previous year’s Assembly of Representatives (AOR) officer, and the senior external affairs officer, who shall be the previous year’s junior external affairs officer. The officers of the Student Society shall be: president, vice president, treasurer, external affairs officer, internal affairs officer, AOR representative, AOR alternate, HOD representative, and student diversity committee officer. In addition, there should be a graduate advisor (appointed by the Program Director), and there will be an elected constituent chapter student representative. All officers, representatives, and delegates must be student members of the AAPA. In the event an officer is placed on academic probation, they will be asked to step down from their officer position.

Section 2. The office of President. The duties of this office shall include but not be limited to the following: Preside over the monthly meetings; set the meetings’ agendas, and

submit the same to the internal affairs officer for copies and distribution. Assign committee chairs, coordinate the activities of the committees, and

keep membership informed of the activities of these committees. Relay information received from SAAAPA to the Student Society. Hold regular business meetings of the Student Society, at least every 4-6

weeks. Cooperate with the outgoing officers at the end of their terms of office to

provide assistance to the first-year officers. Attend biannually PA Program Advisory Board meetings. Assist the program secretary with plans for class graduation. Assume other duties as determined necessary by the Student Society.

Section 3. The office of Vice President. The duties of this office shall include but not be limited to the following: Assist the president and preside in his/her absence. Register the Student Society after elections have been held and before

November 1, which includes sending the Student Society bylaws to the SAAAPA staff advisor of the AAPA/SAAAPA national office.

Inform the membership on various student issues and activities of the SAAAPA.

Oversee all elected committee chairs.

Section 4. The office of Internal Affairs Officer. The duties of this office shall include but not be limited to the following: Maintain all records of the Student Society and record minutes of

meetings. Notify members of forthcoming meetings. Coordinate with fundraising committee chair in advertising all fundraising

events. Maintain contact with Student Society committee chairs to monitor any

ongoing student-related projects. He/she shall maintain communication within appointed student leadership positions.

Section 5. The office of Treasurer. The duties of this office shall include but not be limited to the following:


Coordinate the collection of dues. Maintain the Student Society bank account and report to the membership

the Student Society’s financial status at each meeting.

Section 6. The Graduate Advisor shall provide insight and direction into the proper, ethical, and professional standards of the physician assistant. He/she shall have no voting privilege.

Section 7. The Constituent Chapter Student Representative is expected to do the following: Attend constituent chapter board of directors meetings and report back to

his/her Student Society. Increase interaction among the Student Society, constituent chapter, the

Student Academy, and AAPA national office. Inform the new incoming class about the importance of professional

involvement and AAPA membership. Represent the Student Society by participating as a student delegate in

the AAPA House of Delegates meetings at the AAPA’s annual conference.

Inform the AAPA national office of his/her position as student delegate to the House of Delegates.

Educate Student Society members on national and local PA issues. Submit an After Action Review (AAR) following Lobby Day activities.

Section 8. The Assembly of Representatives (AOR) Representative is expected to do the following: Distribute all Student Academy information to the students at his/her

program. Serve as a point of contact for the SAAAPA Board of Directors and

committees. Attend the AAPA annual conference to represent the Student Society by

participating in the SAAAPA Assembly of Representatives meetings. Represent the Student Society by participating in the Challenge Bowl or

as an alternated at the AAPA annual conference. Inform the AAPA national office of his/her position as student

representative to the Assembly of Representatives. Educate Student Society members about national and local PA issues. Submit an After Action Review (AAR) following the National Conference.Should the AOR representative be unable to fulfill his/her duties, the AOR alternate shall take his/her place.

Section 9. The House of Delegates (HOD) Representative is expected to do the following: Distribute all HOD information to his/her program. Serve as point of contact for the SAAAPA and AAPA. Attend the AAPA annual conference as a SAAAPA delegate in the formal

meeting of the AAPA House of Delegates.

Section 10. The Student Diversity Committee Representative is expected to do the following: Inform the AAPA national office of his/her position as student

representative to the Assembly of Representatives. Build awareness; expand knowledge regarding various cultures,

religions, socioeconomic levels, orientation and sexualities with a clinical and medical context.


This is accomplished by the creative development of in class presentations prepared by the Officer, maintenance of the monthly Diversity Spotlight Bulletin board, and any other manner the Officer deems appropriate.

Topics covered are at the discretion of the Officer, with input by the class by request.

Personal and professional sensitivity and conduct are to be encouraged through activities within the class and community.

Act as liaison between the Student Society and the SAAAPA Director of Diversity.

Represent all PA students and convey any and all concerns regarding diversity to SAAAPA.

Section 11. The office of Junior External Affairs Officer. This office shall be filled by a first-year student. The duties of this office shall include but not be limited to the following: Promote the Student Society and the physician assistant profession Work with the Senior External Affairs officer. Serve as a student liaison with the Service Learning Coordinator. Assist the Director in coordination of PA Day.

Section 12. The office of Senior External Affairs Officer. This second-year position shall be filled by the previous year’s Junior External Affairs Officer. The duties of this office shall include but not be limited to the following: Promote the Student Society and the physician assistant profession Work with the Junior External Affairs officer. Serve as a student liaison with the Service Learning Coordinator. Assist the Directors of Education of medical schools in our area.

Section 13. The Historian is expected to do the following: Educate student society members on historical PA issues. Coordinate activities between the student society and the Society for the

Preservation of Physician Assistant History. Attend and report back to his/her society on information from the Society

for the Preservation of Physician Assistant History meetings. Year to year help preserve student society continuity by assisting the

incoming class with the elections of officers, Student Historian, Assembly of Representatives, and House of Delegates student representatives.

Promote the interaction between the student society, Society for the Preservation of Physician Assistant History, the Student Academy, and the AAPA national office.

Inform the incoming class about the importance of professional involvement and AAPA membership.

ARTICLE VI. Elections

Section 1. All Student Society officer nominees shall be active members of the

Student Society and the American Academy of Physician Assistants. Nominees must submit in writing their intent to run for office along with a

personal profile by the election deadline of September 1. Profiles of nominees shall be distributed to all members of the Student

Society no later than one week before election date. Secret ballot elections for officers’ positions will be held no later than the

fifteenth day of September.


The faculty advisor shall be responsible for distributing and tabulating ballots.

Tabulation must be done immediately and the election results posted and winners notified. In event of a tie, a run-off election shall be held immediately.

Section 2. Once elections are completed, the Student Society Roster Form must be completed and returned to the AAPA national office by November 1.

Section 3. Each officer will serve for a one-year term of office commencing immediately upon election and terminating after the new officers for the next year have been elected and oriented by the outgoing officers.

Section 4. In the event an office becomes vacant, all active members will be notified of such vacancy. Potential nominees have one week to submit an intent to run for office. Profiles of nominees shall be distributed to all members at least one week prior to an election. Elections will be by majority vote.

ARTICLE VII. Officer Training

It will be the responsibility of the outgoing officers to train and familiarize the new officers with their duties and responsibilities and the material needed to perform their jobs. Training must be completed within 30 days of the officer elections and may consist of phone or email communication.

ARTICLE VIII. Meetings

Section 1. The Student Society should meet every 4-6 weeks for the transaction of society business. The date and location of these meetings will be decided by the officers and announced to the student membership.

Section 2. Additional meetings may be called at the discretion of the president provided no less than one week’s notice has been given to the membership.

ARTICLE IX. Committees

Section 1. The standing committees of this society shall be The Fundraising Committee, whose purpose is to develop and implement

(with majority approval) the ideas necessary to raise funds for Society activities.

The Social Committee, whose purpose is to coordinate social events. Any other committees as deemed necessary by the Student Society.

Section 2. Committee membership shall be open to society members on a volunteer basis.

Section 3. All committees shall report their proceedings to the board at the monthly meeting.

ARTICLE X. Money Appropriations from Student Society Fundraising

Section 1. AOR and HOD representatives shall each receive 12.5 percent of total funds raised by the end of the second semester (end of April), as payment toward travel expenses to the AAPA annual conference, provided the officer presents a receipt of registration.


Section 2. The Host City Prevention Campaign shall receive at least 10 percent of funds raised by March 1, the approximate deadline for this donation.

Section 3. Active Student Society members shall equally divide 30 percent of funds raised for travel to the AAPA annual conference. These funds shall be reimbursed at the end of the second semester (end of April) provided the member presents a receipt of registration. The only students eligible for this benefit are active members who have volunteered for at least two Student Society fundraisers. Any disagreements with this expectation can be addressed within and at the discretion of the Student Society.

Section 4. The remaining 35 percent of funds raised shall be used for miscellaneous expenses, such as state lobby day, national lobby day, or any other events to support the PA profession. Any funds remaining after the summer semester of the first year shall be put toward graduation or designated at the discretion of the Student Society.

ARTICLE XI. Amendments and Parliamentary Procedure

Section 1. The Parliamentary source used by the Student Society shall be Robert's Rules of Order. In all proceedings, the Constitution and the Bylaws of the Student Society shall take precedence.

Section 2. The Constitution and Bylaws may be amended by a majority vote, provided all amendments proposed are submitted to the president at the preceding month’s meeting and are in turn submitted to all members, in writing, at least two weeks prior to the vote.

Section 3. Any bylaws necessary to supplement this Constitution shall be approved at a monthly meeting and voted upon at the following monthly meeting with two-thirds of the society’s active membership voting. Absentee ballots are allowed.

ARTICLE XII. Impeachment

Any officer, for the abuse of his or her authority, misconduct in office, or gross neglect of duties, may be impeached and therefore removed from office by two-thirds vote of the all active members at a regular business meeting. Any charges against an officer must be formally written and filed with the Internal Affairs Officer at least one month before any vote shall be taken on the charge(s). A copy of the letter shall be served upon the officer at least two weeks before a vote shall be taken.

ARTICLE XIII. Disbandment

This organization shall not disband except by a two-thirds vote of the active membership at any given regular meeting. A written notice of the intent to disband must be issued to all active members and faculty advisor approximately one month prior to the vote.

The Captain Sean Grimes Physician Assistant Student Society of the Jefferson College of Health Sciences is named after Capt. Sean Grimes, the first physician assistant to be killed in combat. His humvee hit an improvised explosive device on March 4, 2005, in Ar Ramadi, Iraq. Capt. Grimes epitomizes the military’s influence on the PA profession. He is a credit to the PA profession, his country, and the United States Army.


Adopted: September 15, 1997Latest revision: February 10, 2009


Clinical Year Outline

The 12 months of clinical training comprise 10 four-week required rotations, two four-week electives plus a Master’s Capstone. The clinical rotations provide hands-on learning in a variety of teaching hospitals, private practices, and community and rural health clinics.

CLINICAL ROTATIONS

Internal Medicine Two 4-week rotations Primary Care Two 4-week rotationsEmergency Medicine 4-weeksGeneral Orthopedics 4-weeksGeneral Surgery 4-weeksWomen’s Health 4-weeksPediatrics 4-weeksPsychiatry and Behavioral Medicine 4-weeksElective 4-weeksElective 4 weeksMaster’s Capstone 5 weeks

By the end of your clinical rotations, you must have spent at least three days in a long-term care facility, such as a nursing home or rehabilitation center. We will work with you to facilitate your placement.

Each rotation has a syllabus and study guide which is located near the end of this manual. Please read each syllabus carefully as it contains important information related to our expectations for your clinical year.

The Elective rotations are done after completing the required rotations. It may be in a clinical subject area of special interest or may be used for additional work in a required subject area as determined by the Program. Elective rotations may be self designed, but the Clinical Coordinator makes the final decision. Submit Elective request forms to the Clinical Resource Associate 2-3 months prior to the elective rotations. Do NOT confirm these rotations with preceptors—the Program takes care of that.

Assignment of Rotation Sites

All students will complete all rotations in approved clinical sites.

Students must be prepared to complete some rotations out of town, in areas throughout Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. The Program provides the housing for these required rotations.

Students who are responsible for caring for children, parents, or animals need to make arrangements for this before the clinical year. No student is exempt from out-of-town rotations.

Assignments are based on availability and Program needs. All requests for rotations go through the Program; students are welcome to talk to

potential preceptors about doing elective rotations with them, but this must cleared it with the Program.

The Clinical Coordinator and Program Director reserve the right to deny sending a student to any particular site based on the student’s academic performance, evaluations, strengths and offerings of the clinical site, or any other reason.

Clinical rotations within 60 miles of the College are considered local and the Program in general does not provide housing for these sites.


Role of the PA Student

Prerequisites for Clinical Rotations Before your first rotation, you must have the following:

Proof of health insurance. Current BLS and ACLS certification. Up-to-date immunizations, including MMR, DPT, HBV, varicella, and polio, or proof of

immunity. Proof of TB test within past 12 months and repeat TB testing every 12 months. Criminal background check. Carilion Orientation (done yearly).

Some rotation sites will want documentation of the above for their own files—we recommend that you take proof of your immunizations and TB test results with you on the first day of each rotation. If your compliance with the above cannot be verified, you will be removed from your rotation until you can prove compliance. Although the College does keep the immunization documents you provided for its own files, the College is not responsible for keeping your medical records updated nor can it provide these documents to others without a written release from you.

In addition, before you begin a rotation, you must meet these criteria:1. Successful completion of all didactic course work.2. Successful completion of each previous rotation, or arrangement with the Clinical

Coordinator to finish an “Incomplete” or remediate an unsatisfactory rotation grade later.

Criminal Background ChecksIn accordance with JCAHO regulations, all students in clinical programs are required to have completed a background check. You will have done this at the beginning of the Program. This is different from the background check you have already done for HCA affiliates. Failure to have the background check on file will prevent you from going into a clinical rotation.

Clinical ActivityWhile on a clinical rotation, you function as an integral part of the medical team. You will be assigned to a licensed clinician who will serve as your preceptor. You will perform histories and physicals, assess assigned patients, assist in formulating management plans, perform various procedures and diagnostic studies, and otherwise participate significantly in patient care as determined by the preceptor. You will be responsible for monitoring patient progress, reporting to the supervising preceptor, and implementing the preceptor’s plans. You will be required to attend lectures, read articles, and give case presentations (oral and written) as assigned by the preceptor. There are opportunities at various facilities for student medical lectures, grand rounds, and other educational opportunities and conferences. The program fully expects every PA student to take advantage of these opportunities when offered. Failure to attend will result in disciplinary action. If you are unsure as whether you should attend or not, contact the program. These are excellent learning opportunities to further your medical training and education.

You will be given as much hands-on experience as the preceptor believes you are capable of. The best way to demonstrate your capability and worth is to look for work actively, ask questions, engage in outside reading, report early, stay late, and volunteer for call. If you kick back and blend with the crowd, you will miss opportunities to learn and do that you may not ever get again. PA students are known for their steadfast perseverance. If you’re on time next year, you’re late. Show up early and stay late. Your willingness to go the extra mile will separate you from the rest and will impress your preceptors, who in turn will take a greater interest in your education.

You are an invited guest of each rotation site and, as such, you should leave a positive impression of yourself, the College, and the physician assistant profession. Be sure that your interactions are courteous and respectful at all times, and be prepared to discuss the PA profession, how PAs function within the medical community, and your role as a PA student. Each


of you will receive a “professionalism” assessment during the rotation by your preceptor(s). A failure in this area will result in a failure of the rotation and possible dismissal from the program. It is rare for a JCHS PA student to have a problem in this area. Despite your best efforts, you may from time to time encounter people who are not supportive of you or the PA profession. Additionally, students and preceptors may experience difficulties that strain their relationships. You are expected to deal with such problems in a mature and professional manner. You can disagree with an approach to patient management, schedule changes or anything else without being disagreeable. If the situation can’t be resolved, consult the Clinical Coordinator immediately.

PA students are expected to adhere to the following guidelines while on rotations:

1. Physician assistant students on clinical rotation must work under the supervision of a licensed physician or physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or nurse midwife who is supervised by a licensed physician.

2. Students must wear a Jefferson College of Health Sciences patch on their lab coats and a visible name tag designating student status, and they must identify themselves as physician assistant students to all patients and staff at all times.

3. Students will not see patients, make a diagnosis, or carry out any procedure or treatment plan without the explicit prior approval of the preceptor or designee.

4. The student will never work without an identified on-site supervisor. If the preceptor is to be absent, he or she will identify an alternate preceptor for the student. The student will notify the Program of any unexpected preceptor change lasting more than one day.

5. All charts and written orders must be signed with the student's name clearly written followed by the designation PA-S. At no time may the student use other professional titles (e.g. RN, EMT) in written form or otherwise while on clinical rotation.

6. All chart entries and written orders must be countersigned in accordance with the policy of the site.

7. Students will not consent to assess any patient or perform any procedure that is beyond their ability or the scope of practice for a PA.

8. Students are not to perform clerical or administrative work for the site. If you feel that you are being asked to do administrative tasks, then contact the office.

9. Students will observe the highest level of patient confidentiality and professional conduct at all times. Failure to do so will have disciplinary consequences.

10. Physician Assistant students on clinical rotations are expected to accept and integrate constructive feedback from preceptors and other members of the medial community. Failure to do so is a violation of the professional standards.

Failure to adhere to these guidelines will result in disciplinary measures.

AttendanceRotation work hours are determined by the preceptor and may include nights, weekends, and holidays, as well as an on-call schedule. Course syllabi list a minimum of 160 clinical hours for each rotation. Expect to work far more than this during some rotations. You may find yourself working 12-18 hours some days during some surgical and inpatient rotations (not including call and weekends), and some nights and weekends on many rotations. Preceptors are not obligated to give days off on weekdays, weekends, or holidays. College snow days are NOT


days off while on rotation. Note that the rotation calendar does not follow the traditional school calendar. There is no spring-break or breaks between semesters. Adhere to the clinical rotation calendar on Blackboard. If you have questions about the calendar, consult with the program BEFORE making plans.

Follow reporting instructions; notify the Clinical Resource Associate of any errors or schedule changes.

If your clinical site requires an orientation, it is mandatory that you attend. Failure to attend orientation will be considered an unexcused absence and may result in removal from the site.

Absenteeism Adherence to scheduled rotation hours and attendance at end-of-rotation activities is

mandatory. Failure to fulfill this requirement is considered in the evaluation of the academic and professional performance and may result in a failing grade for and repetition of the rotation.

If you must be late or absent from a rotation, or if your schedule has changed, you MUST notify both the preceptor and the Clinical Resource Associate as soon as possible, but never later than 9:00 A.M. on the day of the absence. If you cannot speak with a person in the office, leave a number where you can be reached and the reason you are calling.

Only the Clinical Coordinator can excuse you from a rotation. Without the written permission of the Clinical Coordinator, all students are expected to be at their assigned rotations. No exceptions.

Excused Absences Incapacitating illness and unexpected family emergencies are considered valid

reasons for being absent. Business appointments, job interviews, weddings, graduations, and other social events are NOT valid reasons for being absent. Absences for these and other planned activities must be approved in advance by the Clinical Coordinator or designee. Requests for planned absences must be made in writing at least 14 days in advance; such requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Any excused absence may require documentation.

More than two days missed from a clinical rotation due to an excused absence must be made up within that rotation. Failure to make up time missed due to an excused absence will result in a grade of “I” (incomplete) for the rotation.

A rotation in which a student receives an “I” due to excessive excused absences may be completed at a later date at the discretion of the Clinical Coordinator or Program Director depending on the availability of the rotation.

Remember, the preceptor cannot give an excused absence. Only the Clinical Coordinator can. When in doubt, it is best to check with the PA Program.

Attendance at conferences and lectures outside the clinical rotation site need prior written approval from the Program. This includes review courses, AAPA, VAPA and other conferences.

Unexcused Absences Absences not reported as outlined above will be considered unexcused regardless of

cause.

Planned absences not arranged as outlined above will be considered unexcused.


All unexcused absences and habitual tardiness will be referred to the Student Evaluation and Promotion Committee for recommendation. The following actions will also be taken:

o 1st unexcused absence: Meet with the Clinical Coordinator; final rotation grade may be decreased by one letter grade.

o 2nd unexcused absence: Meet with the Program Director; final rotation grade may be decreased by two letter grades.

o 3rd unexcused absence: SEPC referral and possible failure of rotation. AttireProfessional attire is required for all rotations. No cropped pants or open-toed shoes are allowed. All tattoos and body piercing, with the exception of earrings, must be concealed.

Be guided by your preceptor’s instructions for exceptions to this rule. Scrubs are not generally permitted except in surgery and the Emergency Department. Inappropriately dressed students will be asked to leave the rotation site and will receive an unexcused absence until they return properly attired. In addition, you must wear the JCHS identification badge during all patient encounters.

You are required to wear a short student lab coat on rotation. Long lab coats are not acceptable. Any student not complying with this will be referred to the Student Evaluation and Promotion Committee. Believe it or not, students have failed rotations and have been put on probation for violating this.

Medical Diagnostic EquipmentTake your own medical diagnostic instruments (stethoscope, otoscope, ophthalmoscope, reflex hammer, etc.) to all rotations unless you are instructed otherwise by your preceptor. Please be sure that all your equipment is properly labeled with name or initials.

Meals and HousingAll expenses related to meals and housing while on clinical rotations are your responsibility. Some sites may provide meals; however, the Program does not require that any site do so. The Program does provided housing at some clinic sites, which you may or may not elect to use. This housing is for assigned students only. No children, friends, or pets are allowed to stay at any time. At times male and female students may occupy separate rooms in the same housing. The Program reserves the right to change housing assignments at any time. You should care for the housing sites as you would your own home. Clean up before you leave. You will be responsible for paying for any damages. Use your cell phone for long-distance calls. These locations have internet service provided.

Clinical rotations within 60 miles of the College or college provided housing are considered local and the Program will not provide housing for these sites.

Malpractice Insurance/Accidental Exposure PolicyAll clinical students are covered under the Jefferson College of Health Sciences professional liability policy while at assigned rotations. All reportable incidents involving students and patients must be reported immediately by phone and in writing to the Clinical Coordinator. (See pg. 21 for protocol for accidental exposure.)

Universal PrecautionsFollow OSHA Guidelines for universal precautions at the clinical site, including the use of gloves, care of sharp objects, use of eye wear, protective clothing, and other precautionary measures.

Patient ConfidentialityMedical ethics and HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act) forbid violation of patient confidentiality. Both you and your preceptor should be sensitive to this issue. Any discussion regarding a patient’s diagnosis, care, and condition should be conducted with


discretion and, preferably, in private. You should identify patients by initials or chart numbers in case studies and other written reports. Failure to adhere to HIPAA standards will result in dismissal from the Program.

Professional Behaviors While On RotationsAll students accepted into the Jefferson College of Health Sciences PA Program are considered responsible adults. As such, they must maintain the professional standards and behavior expected by the Physician Assistant profession, as outlined in the Code of Ethics PA Profession. PA students on clinical rotations represent the College, the Program, and the Physician Assistant profession at all times. We expected each PA student to be familiar with the College’s “Code for Student Conduct” as written in the Student Handbook.In the unexpected event that a PA student is accused of a violation of the code, especially if the student is arrested or removed from a clinical site, it is the student’s responsibility to notify the Clinical Coordinator immediately. The Clinical Coordinator will then notify the appropriate Program and College officials. Failure to notify the Program immediately will result in further disciplinary action.

Students may be removed from any rotation, at any time by the Program whose conduct is not in accord with the ideals, policies, or technical standards of the PA program or the College. Students who have been directed to withdraw or leave a rotation may not be eligible to return.

Student MistreatmentIf at any time you feel uncomfortable, mistreated, harassed, or discriminated against, immediately contact the Clinical Coordinator or Program Director. This includes verbal, nonverbal, and physical behavior.

Much more information regarding the clinical year will be given to you in the Clinical Year Manual before you begin rotations.


Physician Assistant ProgramStudent Handbook

Appendices

Appendix A Carilion Employee (Student) Event Form

Appendix B Jefferson College of Health Sciences Honor Code

Appendix C Didactic and Clinical Year Examination QuestionChallenge Form

Appendix D Academic Misconduct Form

Appendix E Attendance Form

Appendix F Confirmation of Receipt of Policies and Proceduresfor Physician Assistant Students Academic Year2009-2010


Appendix A

Event Reports

Instructions for Jefferson College of Health Sciences

The Employee Event Report is used to document all incidents for both employees and students. For student related incidents, please insert the students information where it reads employee.

Students: If medical treatment is needed, the form must accompany the student to the Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital Emergency Department. Otherwise the form must be forwarded to the College Safety Officer within 24 hours of the incident.

Employees: If medical treatment is needed, the form must accompany the employee to the Carilion Employee Health Office or Emergency Department, if necessary or after hours. Otherwise the form must be forwarded to the College Safety Officer within 24 hours of the incident.

A copy of the form is kept with the individual’s permanent record, as well as in the office of the College Safety Officer.

Forms are available at the College lobby Security desk located at 920 S. Jefferson St. It is recommended you print hard copies and have available and on-hand in case of an emergency.


http://www.carilion.com/Default.asp

EMPLOYEE EVENT REPORT(Include Accident, Exposures and Communicable Illness)

(ALL BLANKS MUST BE FILLED OUT)

SECTION 1 To be completed by the Employee (INSTRUCTIONS ON FOLLOWING PAGE)

Name of Facility: Social Security Number: Name of Employee: Phone (W): Home Address: Phone (H): City/State/Zip Code: Date of Birth: Department/Job Title: Years Employed: Date of Event/Location of Event/Time (Fill in line below): Average Hours Per Week: Date Event Reported/To Whom Reported (Fill in line below): DESCRIPTION AND CAUSE OF EVENT MEASURES TAKEN TO PREVENT REOCCURANCE

Name of Witness: Phone Number of Witness:

BODY PARTS AFFECTED

Left or Right Side Left or Right Side Left or Right Side Left or Right Side

Head Abdomen Hand Foot Eye Back Finger(s) Toe(s) Face Arm Wrist Ankle Neck Shoulder Leg Hip Chest Groin Knee Other

Employee Signature: Date: Manager/Designee Signature: Date:

SECTION 2 To be completed by Treatment Site & returned immediately to Worker’s Compensation/Employee Health Office

TREATMENT DESCRIPTION OF TREATMENTOccupational Medicine Employee HealthEmergency Dept.No Tx NecessaryDeclined TreatmentOther

SECTION 3 To be completed by the Worker’s Compensation Office.Released to Home HospitalizedFull DutyRestricted DutyOther (explain)

Manager/Designee Signature: Date:


http://www.carilion.com/Default.asp

Temporary Restricted Duty Assignment Days: Last Days Worked:

Workers’ Compensation Rep. Signature: Date:

Routing: To the Workers’ Compensation Office


Appendix B

JCHS ACADEMIC HONOR CODE AND JCHS HONOR PLEDGE(JCHS Student Handbook) www.jchs.edu

ACADEMIC HONOR CODEThe College expects students to exhibit high levels of integrity in all activities. The College reserves the right to deny admission to or remove students from any program if they have a record of misconduct or demonstrate behavior that would jeopardize their professional performance.

Every faculty member and student is responsible for assuring academic integrity at the College.

It is the student’s responsibility to know what constitutes academic dishonesty, cheating or plagiarism. If students are unclear they should seek the advice of the instructor. Students should consult the JCHS Student Handbook for more information about academic dishonesty.

JCHS ACADEMIC HONOR PLEDGE“I will not lie, cheat, steal nor tolerate those who do” as defined in the JCHS Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge.

GENERAL PRINCIPLESA. Purpose: The primary purpose for the maintenance of discipline in the College setting is

the protection of the campus community and the maintenance of an environment conducive to learning and inquiry. Freedom of thought and expression is essential to the College’s academic mission.

B. Inherent Authority: The College reserves the right to take necessary and appropriate action to protect the safety and well being of the campus community.

C. Interpretation of Regulations and Standard of Conduct: To the extent feasible and practicable, disciplinary regulations at the College are in writing in order to give students general notice of prohibited conduct. The regulations are not a criminal code; they should be read broadly and are not designed to define misconduct in exhaustive terms.

D. Proceedings: Disciplinary proceedings conducted pursuant to the Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge shall be informal, fair and expeditious. Procedures governing criminal or civil courts, including formal rules of evidence, are not applicable. Deviations from the procedures in this Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge shall not invalidate a proceeding or decision, except where such deviation has clearly resulted in significant prejudice to an accused student or the College.

E. Violations of Local, State and Federal Law: Students may be accountable to both governmental authorities and to the College for acts which constitute violations of law and this Code. Student misconduct allegedly constituting a felony or misdemeanor offense may be referred to appropriate law enforcement agencies for prosecution. Disciplinary proceedings at the College will not be subject to challenge on the ground that criminal charges involving the same incident have been filed, prosecuted, dismissed, reduced, or otherwise resolved, or that such proceedings constitute double jeopardy.

DEFINTIONS1. The term “College” means Jefferson College of Health Sciences.

2. The term “student” includes all persons taking courses at the College, either full-time or part-time, pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies. Persons who withdraw after allegedly violating the Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge, who are not


officially enrolled for a particular term but who have a continuing relationship with the College or who have been notified of their acceptance for admission are considered “students”. The Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge apply at all locations of the College as well as to off-campus violations, which negatively impact the living-learning environment, the mission of the College, or the welfare of any member of the College community.

3. The term “faculty member” means any person hired by the College to conduct classroom or teaching activities or who is otherwise considered by the College to be a member of its faculty.

4. The term “College official” includes any person employed by the College, performing assigned administrative or professional responsibilities. A College official is a person employed by the College in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position (including security and law enforcement personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the College has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.

5. The term “member of the College community” includes any person who is a student, faculty member, College official, or employed by the College. A person’s status in a particular situation shall be determined by the Dean for Student Services or their designee.

6. The term “College premises” includes all land, buildings, facilities, and other property in the possession of or owned, used, controlled by the College (including the adjacent streets and sidewalks), or used by the College in direct support or in a manner related to the College’s educational purposes, including residence halls and clinical sites.

7. The term “organization” means any number of persons who have complied with the formal requirements for College recognition.

8. The term “Student Conduct Board” means any person or persons authorized by the Dean for Student Services to determine whether a student has violated the Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge and to recommend sanctions that may be imposed when a rules violation has been committed.

9. The term “Dean for Student Services or his/her designee” means a College official authorized on a case-by-case basis by the Dean for Student Services to impose sanctions upon any student (s) found to have violated the Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge. The Dean for Student Services may authorize his/her designee to serve simultaneously as the sole member or one of the members of the Student Conduct Board. The Dean for Student Services may authorize his/her designee to impose sanctions in all cases.

10. The term “Appellate Board” means any person or persons authorized by the Dean for Student Services to consider an appeal from a Student Conduct Board’s determination as to whether a student has violated the Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge or from the sanctions imposed by the Dean for Student Services or his/her designee.

11. The term “shall” is used in the imperative sense.

12. The term “may” is used in the permissive sense.


13. The Dean for Student Services is that person designated by the College President to be responsible for the administration of the Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge.

14. The term “policy” means the written regulations of the College as found in, but not limited to, the JCHS Code for Student Conduct, Academic Honor Code and the JCHS Honor Pledge, departmental handbooks, College Student Handbook, College web page and Graduate/Undergraduate Catalogs.

15. The term “cheating” includes, but is not limited to: (1) use of any unauthorized assistance in taking quizzes, tests, or examinations; (2) use of sources beyond those authorized by the instructor in writing papers, preparing reports, solving problems, or carrying out other assignments; (3) the acquisition, without permission, of tests or other academic material belonging to a member of the College faculty or staff; or (4) engaging in any behavior specifically prohibited by a faculty member in the course syllabus or class discussion.

16. The term “plagiarism” includes, but is not limited to, the use, by paraphrase or direct quotation, of the published or unpublished work of another person without full and clear acknowledgment. It also includes the unacknowledged use of materials prepared by another person or agency engaged in the selling of term papers or other academic materials.

17. The term “Complainant” means any person who submits a charge alleging that a student violated this Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge. When a student believes that s/he has been a victim of another student’s misconduct, the student who believes s/he has been a victim will have the same rights under the Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge as are provided to the Complainant, even if another member of the College community submitted the charge itself.

18. The term “Accused Student” means any student accused of violating the Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge.

ACADEMIC HONOR CODE AND JCHS HONOR PLEDGE AUTHORITYThe Dean for Student Services or his/her designee shall determine the composition of

Student Conduct Boards and Appellate Boards and determine which Student Conduct Board, a designee appointed by the Dean for Student Services or Appellate Board shall be authorized to hear the matter.

The Dean for Student Services shall develop policies for the administration of the student conduct system and procedural rules for the conduct of Student Conduct Board Hearings that are consistent with provisions of the Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge.

Decisions made by a Student Conduct Board and/or Dean for Student Services or his/her designee shall be final, pending the normal appeal process.

PROSCRIBED CONDUCT AND JURIDICTION OF THE ACADEMIC HONOR CODE AND JCHS HONOR PLEDGE

The College Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge shall apply to conduct that occurs on College premises, at College sponsored activities, clinical sites and to off-campus conduct that adversely affects the College Community and/or the pursuit of its objectives. Each student shall be responsible for his/her conduct from the time of application for admission through the actual awarding of a degree, even though conduct may occur before classes begin or after classes end, as well as during the academic year and during periods between terms of actual enrollment (including conduct that is not discovered until after a degree is awarded). The Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor


Pledge shall apply to a student’s conduct even if the student withdraws from school while a disciplinary matter is pending. The Dean for Student Services shall decide whether the Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge shall be applied to conduct occurring off campus, on a case-by-case basis, at their sole discretion.

BEHAVIORS CONSTITUTING CAUSE FOR DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE ACADEMIC HONOR CODE AND/OR JCHS HONOR PLEDGE

Any student found to have committed or to have attempted to commit the following misconduct is subject to the disciplinary sanctions outlined in the section on sanctions:

1. Acts of academic misconduct, including but not limited to the following:a) Cheating, plagiarism, other forms of academic dishonesty, or violation of the

College’s Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge;b) Furnishing false information to any College official, faculty member or office;c) Forgery, alteration, or misuse of any College application, document, record, or

instrument of identification;d) Unpermitted collaboration on assignments;e) Misrepresentation of student status, academic credentials, or completion of

clinical hours or assignment;f) Falsification of a resume, transcript or application;g) Knowingly making false allegations of academic misconduct against any member

of the College community;h) Using materials during a quiz, exam or assignment other than those specifically

permitted by the instructor.

2. Acts which violate policies of clinical agencies or College policies regarding clinical practice, including but not limited to:

a) Abuse, neglect, or abandonment of patients or practicing in an unsafe manner in a clinical setting;

b) Intentionally or unintentionally disseminating patient information without written and signed authorization from the patient or guardian, or as otherwise allowed by law;

c) Demonstrating unethical practice, lack of integrity or acceptance of responsibility for one’s own learning and actions;

d) Knowingly practicing outside the scope of professional training or practicing in an unsafe manner in a clinical setting.

3. Acts involving theft or other abuse of College computer facilities or resources, including but not limited to:

a) Unauthorized efforts to enter, monitor, use, read, or change computing hardware or software contents or for any other purpose;

b) Unauthorized transfer of a file;c) Use of another individual’s identification or password;d) Use of computing facilities and resources to interfere with the work of another

student, faculty member or College Official;e) Use of computing facilities and resources to send obscene or abusive messages;f) Use of computing facilities and resources to view or receive pornography;g) Improper use of the Internet while on College property;h) Any acts prohibited by the College’s technology, computer use and/or email

policies;i) Use of computing facilities or resources to interfere with the normal operation of

the College computing system, College administration, research, clinical education or practice, teaching or community service;

j) Use of computing facilities and resources in violation of copyright laws.

4. Acts of abuse of the Student Judicial System, including but not limited to:


Failure to obey the summons of a College Administrator or College Student Conduct Board Official to appear before a meeting or hearing as part of the Student Conduct System;

Intentional dishonesty before any judicial body of the College including falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information before a College Administrator, College Student Conduct Board Official, or College Student Conduct Board;

Disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of a Student Conduct Board, College Conduct Board Official, or College Administrator;

Initiation of an Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge proceeding without reason or in bad faith;

Attempting to discourage an individual’s proper participating in, or use of the student conduct system;

Attempting to influence the impartiality of a member of a Student Conduct Hearing prior to and/or during the course of a judicial proceeding;

Harassment (verbal or physical) and/or intimidation of a member of a Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge proceeding;

Failure to comply with the sanction(s) imposed under the Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge of Conduct;

Influencing or attempting to influence, another person to commit an abuse of the Student Judicial System;

Failure to comply with the terms of a probation; Facilitating or encouraging violations of the Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS

Honor Pledge by helping, procuring, or encouraging another person or persons to engage in a violation of the Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge or other College policy.

Students are required to engage in responsible academic and social conduct that reflects credit upon the College community and to model good citizenship.

Student groups or organizations and their officers may be held responsible for violations of the Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge by members or others associated with the organization or group, which have received the tacit or overt consent or encouragement of the group or organization or its leaders, officers, or spokespersons.

STUDENT CONDUCT ACADEMIC HONOR CODE AND JCHS HONOR PLEDGE PROCEDURES

A. Charges and Student Conduct Board Hearings

1. Any member of the College community may file charges against a student for violations of the Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge. A charge shall be prepared in writing directed to the Dean for Student Services or his/her designee. Any charge should be submitted as soon as possible after the event takes place, preferably within five (5) business days.

2. If a faculty member is convinced that a clear violation of the Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge has occurred he/she will discuss the matter privately with the student(s) involved. No penalty will be imposed until the student has been informed of the charge and given an opportunity to present a defense. Faculty will complete a Notification of Academic Misconduct form with the accused student. These forms are available in the Dean for Student Services’ Office on the 4th floor at CRCH.

Upon completion of the discussion with the student, the faculty member will write a letter to the student detailing the violation and the subsequent consequences. A copy of this letter will be submitted to the Program Director and Dean for


Student Services. The faculty member will inform the student of the action taken and of the right to appeal the decision following the appeals process found in this handbook.

3. If the charges are not admitted and/or cannot be disposed of by mutual consent, the Dean for Student Services or his/her designee may later serve in the same matter as the Student Conduct Board or a member thereof. The Dean for Student Services or his/her designee may conduct an investigation to determine if the charges have merit and/or if they can be disposed of administratively by mutual consent of the parties involved on a basis acceptable to the Dean for Student Services or his/her designee. Such disposition shall be final and there shall be no subsequent proceedings. If the student admits violating institutional rules, but sanctions are not agreed to, subsequent process, including a hearing if necessary, shall be limited to determining the appropriate sanction(s). (The term “Student Conduct Board” means any person or persons authorized by the Dean for Student Services to determine whether a student has violated the Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge and to recommend sanctions that may be imposed when a rules violation has been committed.)

4. All charges shall be presented to the Accused Student in written form. A time shall be set for a Student Conduct Board Hearing, not less than five nor more than fifteen calendar days after the student has been notified. Maximum time limits for scheduling of Student Conduct Board Hearings may be extended at the discretion of the Dean for Student Services or his/her designee.

5. Student Conduct Board Hearings shall be conducted by a Student Conduct Board according to the following guidelines except as provided by article (A) (8) below:

a. Student Conduct Board Hearings normally shall be conducted in private.

b. The Complainant, Accused Student and their advisors, if any, shall be allowed to attend the entire portion of the Student Conduct Board Hearing at which all information is received (excluding deliberations). Admission of any other person to the Student Conduct Board Hearing shall be at the discretion of the Student Conduct Board and/or the Dean for Student Services or his/her designee.

c. In Student Conduct Board Hearings involving more than one Accused Student, the Dean for Student Services or his/her designee, at his or her discretion, may permit the Student Conduct Board Hearings concerning each student to be conducted either separately or jointly.

d. The Complainant and the Accused Student have the right to be assisted by an advisor of their choosing and at their own expense. The advisor must be a member of the College community and may not be an attorney. The Complainant and/or the Accused Student is responsible for presenting his or her own information, and therefore, advisors are not permitted to speak or to participate directly in any Student Conduct Board Hearing before a Student Conduct Board. A student should select as an advisor a person whose schedule allows attendance at the scheduled date and time for the Student Conduct Board Hearing because delays will not normally be allowed due to the scheduling conflicts of an advisor.

e. The Complainant, the Accused Student, and the Student Conduct Board may arrange for witnesses to present pertinent information to the Student Conduct Board. The College will try to arrange the


attendance of possible witnesses who are members of the College community, if reasonably possible, and who are identified by the Complainant and/or Accused Student as least two weekdays prior to the Student Conduct Board Hearing. Witnesses will provide information to and answer questions from the Student Conduct Board. Questions may be suggested by the Accused Student and/or Complainant to be answered by each other or by other witnesses. This will be conducted by the Student Conduct Board with such questions directed to the chairperson, rather than to the witness directly. This method is used to preserve the educational tone of the hearing and to avoid creation of an adversarial environment. Questions of whether potential information will be received shall be resolved at the discretion of the chairperson of the Student Conduct Board.

f. Pertinent records, exhibits, and written statements may be accepted as information for consideration by a Student Conduct Board at the discretion of the chairperson.

g. All procedural questions are subject to the final decision of the chairperson of the Student Conduct Board.

h. After the portion of the Student Conduct Board Hearing concludes in which all pertinent information has been received, the Student Conduct Board shall determine (by majority vote if the Student Conduct Board consists of more than one person) whether the Accused Student has violated each section of the Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge which the student is charged with violating.

i. The student Conduct Board’s determination shall be made on the basis of whether it is more likely than not that the Accused Student violated the Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge.

j. Formal rules of process, procedure, and/or technical rules of evidence, such as are applied in criminal or civil court, are not used in Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge proceedings.

6. There shall be a single verbatim record, such as a tape recording, of all Student Conduct Board Hearings before a Student Conduct Board (not including deliberations). Deliberations shall not be recorded. The record shall be the property of the College.

7. If an Accused Student, with notice, does not appear before a Student Conduct Board Hearing, the information in support of the charges shall be presented and considered even if the Accused Student is not present.

8. The Student Conduct Board may accommodate concerns for the personal safety, well-being, and/or fears of confrontation of the Complainant, Accused Student, and/or other witnesses during the hearing by providing separate facilities, by using a visual screen, and/or by permitting participation by telephone, videophone, closed circuit television, video conferencing, videotape, audio tape, written statement, or other means, where and as determined in the sole judgment of the Dean for Student Services to be appropriate.

B. SanctionsThe following penalties shall be imposed for violations of academic integrity at the College:

For academic integrity violations in the classroom or laboratories:First Offense: A person who pleads guilty or who is found guilty of a violation of the Academic


Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge in a didactic classroom situation shall receive a lower grade of “F” on the assignment, or in the case of a serious violation, a lower grade of “F” for the course.

Second Offense: In the event of conviction of a second offense of the Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge not under the same charge, the student will be suspended from the College. Students so suspended may petition for readmission to the College no sooner than one year from the date of suspension.

For academic integrity violations in a clinical situation:First Offense: A person who pleads guilty or who is found guilty of a violation of the Academic Honor

Academic Honor Code and JCHS Honor Pledge in a clinical situation will either be immediately suspended or permanently dismissed from all College classes, activities, and facilities. The student will receive a grade of “F” in the course and will be administratively withdrawn from all other courses.

Students who are suspended may petition for readmission to the College no sooner than one year from the date of dismissal. Students who are permanently dismissed are ineligible to reapply to the College. The severity of the sanction will be determined in part by the seriousness of the academic integrity violation and if the student has been found guilty of other academic integrity violations.

Additional sanctions may include:a) Permanent Dismissal/Expulsion

Permanent dismissal/expulsion is involuntary separation from the College without the possibility of future readmission. Students who are permanently dismissed may not return to campus, nor participate in any College-related academic or social activity, function or event. Students who return to campus after having been notified of being permanently dismissed may be subject to legal action.

b) SuspensionSuspension is the involuntary separation from the College for a specified period of time, at the end of which the student may reapply for readmission, assuming no intervening misconduct has occurred and the student completes all requirements set forth for readmission. The burden of proof as to whether all requirements set forth for readmission have been met lies with the student. Students suspended from the College may not return to campus during the time the sanction is in effect without advance written permission from the Dean for Student Services. If the conduct of a student, prior to the date in which the sanction takes effect, is judged to be an immediate threat to himself/herself, to others, or to College operations or property, the student may be suspended immediately and/or for the remainder of the term, pending appeal.

c) Disciplinary ProbationDisciplinary probation is a strong, formal warning issued to the student in response to a serious violation of the College Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge. Probation for a stated period of time and is intended to foster increased self-discipline and respect for the standards of the College. Subsequent misconduct, especially during the probationary period, will result in a more stringent sanction.


d) Admonition/WarningAdmonition is a written notice that a student has violated campus regulations and that future misconduct of any nature will be dealt with more stringently. There are two letters regarding admonition a student might receive.

A letter of warning is an admonition in which the student is advised that a specific behavior is inappropriate and of his/her responsibility to comply with College policy.

A letter of reprimand is an official censure containing sanctions for violation of College policy. The letter of reprimand will contain four components; a reprimand for the inappropriate behavior, notice that the conduct associated with the violation must stop immediately and permanently, sanctions for the violation, and notice that additional violations shall result in more severe sanctions.

e) RestitutionRestitution is payment to the College or to other persons, groups, or organizations by a student or a group, for damages occurred as a result of misconduct. Failure to meet the conditions of payment will result in the withholding of grades, diplomas, and transcripts and can result in further sanctions.

f) Loss of PrivilegesLoss of privileges is the removal of certain student privileges including, but not limited to, the following: visitation privileges, the privilege to live in the residence hall, the privilege to have stereos or other equipment, and the privilege to have a car on the College campus.

g) Behavioral ContractA behavioral contract is a document written by a College official, which requires a student to complete sanctions within a specified period of time or further sanctions may be instituted.

h) Educational AssignmentAn educational assignment is a task that is related to the misconduct involved and designed to increase the student’s understanding of the regulation that was violated. The educational assignment will be completed within a specified period of time or further sanctions may be instituted.

i) Work Assignment/Community ServiceA work assignment/community service is a task or series of tasks assigned by the Dean for Student Services or other College administrator, designed to increase the student’s self-discipline and respect for the standards of the College. The assignment will be provided in writing, not exceed 25 hours, and must be completed by a specific date. The work assignment will be completed within a specified period of time or further sanctions may be instituted.

j) FinesFines are administered to student(s) or group(s) for up to $100 as punitive damages. If fines are assessed, they shall follow a pattern of:

Admonition $25.00


Disciplinary Probation $50.00Repeat Offenses Double the fine

Fines shall be paid to the Bursar’s Office with instructions from the Dean for Student Services or other College administrator and will become part of the general College fund.

k) Revocation of Admission and/or DegreeAdmission to or a degree awarded from the College may be revoked for fraud, misrepresentation, or other violation of College standards in obtaining the degree, or for other serious violations committed by a student prior to graduation.

l) Withholding Degree The College may withhold awarding a degree otherwise earned until the completion of the process set forth in the Student Conduct Code, including the completion of all sanctions imposed, if any.

m) Mental Health Assessment Mental health assessment and treatment may be required before a student is readmitted or allowed to come on College property. The Dean for Student Services or designee must receive a letter from a mental health professional, verifiable by College officials, stating that in his/her professional judgment the student will no longer continue the behavior, which gave rise to the disciplinary action against him/her or that the student’s continued presence on campus is not a threat to himself/herself or others. The student shall bear the cost and expense of obtaining mental health clearance.

More than one of the sanctions listed above may be imposed for any single violation.a. Those sanctions listed above in the section on sanctions (B)(1)(a)-(e)b. Loss of selected rights and privileges for a specified period of time.c. Deactivation. Loss of all privileges, including College recognition, for a

specified period of time.

In each case in which a Student Conduct Board determines that a student and/or group or organization has violated the Academic Honor Code and/or JCHS Honor Pledge, the sanction(s) shall be determined and imposed by the Dean for Student Services or his/her designee. In cases in which person(s) other than, or in addition to, the Dean for Student Services or his/her designee have been authorized to serve as the Student Conduct Board, the recommendation of the Student Conduct Board shall be considered by the Dean for Student Services or his/her designee in determining and imposing sanctions. The Dean for Student Services or his/her designee is not limited to sanctions recommended by members of the Student Conduct Board. Following the Student Conduct Board Hearing, the Student Conduct Board and the Dean for Student Services or his/her designee shall advise the Accused Student, group and/or organization (and a companioning student who believes s/he was the victim of another student’s conduct) in writing of their determination and of the sanction(s) imposed, if any.


Appendix C

JCHS PA ProgramDidactic and Clinical Year

Examination Question Challenge Form

Please follow the following guidelines when challenging an examination question.

1. Challenges to test questions will be allowed after the return of grades to all students. 2. The student has only 48 hours in which to submit a challenge.3. Documentation for the didactic year is to be provided from assigned readings or lecture

PowerPoints only. 4. Documentation for the clinical year is to be provided from reliable medical sources and

will be accepted at the discretion of the clinical coordinator.5. The challenge form must be filled out completely and submitted to the course instructor

via email.6. The course instructor's decision about a challenge is final.

Student’s name __________________________Exam __________________________________Instructor _______________________________Date of Exam ____________________________Today’s Date _____________________________

Question Number _______

Question and choices: (please write out entire question)

Answer marked correct according to original test scoring _______

Answer marked by student _______

Justification:

Reference (Only references from assigned reading or PowerPoint presented in class will be considered.):


Appendix D

NOTIFICATION OF ALLEGED ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT

Today’s Date: ___/___/___ Student’s I.D. Number: ______________

Student’s Name: ___________________________________________________

Student’s Current Address: ___________________________________________

Student’s Phone Number: ______________ Cell Phone Number: _____________

Student’s E-mail Address: __________________________

Date of Alleged Academic Misconduct: ___/___/___

ALLEGED ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT INCIDENT AND CHARGE

You have been charged with the following violation of JCHS’s Code for Student Conduct, Academic Honor Code or Honor Pledge. The violation occurred in:

Course Number/Title/Section: _________________________________________

Instructor’s Name: ___________________ Phone Number: _________________

Instructor’s E-mail Address: _________________________

Check all that apply:

____Using ideas, organization, or words of another from a book, article, computer file or other source in any assignment without giving proper credit following accepted citation rules (plagiarism).

____Submitting course materials not the student’s own, allowing such a submission to be made for oneself or making a submission for another.

____Providing assistance to or receiving assistance from another person in a manner not authorized by the instructor.

____Using unauthorized materials (crib notes, books, electronic devices, etc.) as an aid during an examination.

____Possessing or providing an examination or assignment, or any part thereof, at any time or in any manner not authorized by the instructor.

____Other: _______________________________________________________


Jefferson College of Health Sciences believes that every student is accountable for his/her behavior. Within this context, the Code For Student Conduct, Academic Honor Code and Honor Pledge, printed in the Student Handbook and on the College webpage, exists to guide the behavior of all JCHS students. Submission of this document to the Director of Student Services constitutes a formal complaint of alleged academic misconduct against the student referred and may result in the initiation of disciplinary procedures as detailed in the Code For Student Conduct. This form should be submitted in its entirety to the Dean for Student Services.

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________________________________________________________________

__Witness: _______________ Phone #: _____________ E-mail Address: ____________



__ Materials attached in support of charge: _____________________________________

I assign the following sanction/consequence for your misconduct in accordance with my course syllabi and/or the College’s Code for Student Conduct or Academic Honor Code.

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

Instructor’s Signature: _______________________ Date: ___________________________


This statement is a true and accurate representation of the facts of this incident.

_______________________________ ______________________________Signature of Instructor or Complainant Date

________________________________Printed Name

Acceptance of Responsibility: I have agreed that the statement listed above is a true and accurate representation of the facts of the academic misconduct incident, waive my right to a judicial hearing, accept responsibility for the violation and agree to the sanction(s) listed below.

______________________________ ______________________________Student Signature Date

_____________________________Printed Name

SUPPORTING EVIDENCE

Denial of Responsibility: I do not agree that I have violated any College policy listed above and/or will not accept the sanction listed above and ask for a formal hearing through the Director of Student Services (or designee) within five (5) weekdays.

_______________________________ ____________________________Signature of Student Date

_______________________________Printed Name

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Forward this completed form to Dean for Student Services.


Appendix E

JCHS Physician Assistant Program Attendance Form

Name of student: _________________________

Classes missed/to be missed: Clin Med_____ Clin Skills______Pharmacology______ Behavioral Med_________Pro Sem_______ Anatomy ______ Clin Pathophys____

Date(s) missed/to-be missed: ____________________________

Reason:__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Student signature: ______________________________________

Instructor signature______________________________________

Person completing form: ___________________________________________________

Date completed_________________________________________

_____ Check here if special circumstances and student would like form to be reviewed by program director or designee

Comments instructor/program director:

Please submit to Kathy Keoughan, who will forward it to Dr. Chen. If form filled out by someone other than student please have student initial here___________.

8/24/09 JBC


Appendix F

Jefferson College of Health SciencesPhysician Assistant Program

Class of 2011

The Student Handbook for Physician Assistant Students has been reviewed with me and I understand the contents and agree to abide by the policies therein. I understand that a copy of the handbook is on the Physician Assistant in-house web page.

The PA Program reserves the right to update the policies in this handbook to reflect the changing nature of healthcare and education during the course of the program.

_____________________________________Signature

_____________________________________Printed Name

_____________________________________Date


PA Policies 09-10

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