Assessing PA Student Interest in Hospice and Palliative Medicine

Abstract

Objectives

While hospice and palliative medicine (HPM) is a critical and growing field, Physician Associates (PAs) are underrepresented. This study sought to assess PA student interest in HPM and identify strategies to increase engagement with the Physician Associates in Hospice and Palliative Medicine (PAHPM) organization.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey, pre-tested by subject matter experts, was distributed to PA students via PAHPM’s email and social media. The survey assessed attitudes toward HPM and identified barriers to organizational involvement.

Results

Lack of awareness was the primary barrier to involvement (75.8%). Students expressed interest in educational resources (63.6%), job opportunities (57.6%), and mentorship (51.5%). Most respondents (81.8%) do not currently follow PAHPM on social media, but 72.7% indicated they would follow an Instagram account.

Conclusions

Results suggest that increasing PAHPM’s visibility through targeted marketing and social media may support student engagement. Future research is needed to determine if these strategies effectively translate into long-term HPM workforce growth.