Technical Standards

The technical standards set by the FIU HWCOM MPAS program establish the essential qualities necessary for students to be admitted to and successfully complete this program. MPAS students must meet all technical standards upon matriculation and throughout enrollment in the MPAS program. In the event a student is unable to fulfill these technical standards, with reasonable accommodation, the student will be subject to dismissal.

MPAS students must be fully able to perform the essential functions in each of the following categories:

  1. Observation. Acquire, assimilate, interpret, integrate, and apply information from direct observation, oral and written communication of radiographic and other imaging techniques, pathologic and laboratory testing, electrocardiograms, and other reports or studies. 
  2. Communication. Communicate effectively and sensitively with patients, health professionals, teachers, staff, and peers, both orally and in writing and when the time available for communication is limited. Accurately obtain a medical history from the patient or his or her health care proxy. 
  3. Motor/Tactile Function. Perform procedures fundamental to medicine, including participating fully in curriculum requirements in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical settings. Perform diagnostic and emergency maneuvers and procedures, such as palpation, percussion, auscultation, airway management, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, suturing, and assisting in surgery. 
  4. Cognitive/Intellectual Function. Perform problem-solving tasks quickly and efficiently in an environment that may change rapidly, without warning, and/or in unpredictable ways. Comprehend three-dimensional and spatial relationships. 
  5. Behavioral and Social Attributes. Possess the emotional stability to exercise sound judgment; manage physical and emotional stress; exhibit sufficient interpersonal skills to interact with people at all levels in a culturally diverse society; and form compassionate relationships with patients while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries. 

Meeting the technical standards is required but does not guarantee a student's eligibility for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE). The students must also meet the expectations of the program's accrediting agency (Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. [ARC-PA]).