Transitioning to a New Specialty: A Guide for Physician Assistants

The Changing Landscape for Physician Assistants

Most PAs switch specialties, but many don’t make the change until several years into their careers. (1) After being away from PA school for some time, how can we enhance our readiness for a new specialty?

The resources available are diverse. However, there's no one-size-fits-all approach for preparing for a new specialty. Your preparation will depend on several factors. For instance, whether you are changing institutions, stepping into a specialty you have prior experience in, or starting in a brand-new role for a PA.

Research suggests that deliberate onboarding, Continuing Medical Education (CME) review, and mentorship can be crucial in successfully integrating into a new practice. (2)

The Importance of Education in Transitioning

Transitioning into a new specialty can be both exciting and challenging. It’s essential to keep your skills sharp and expand your knowledge. Here’s how education plays a vital role in your transition:

Continuing Education

CME is a fundamental part of maintaining your competence as a PA. Each specialty has specific nuances, challenges, and focuses that require individualized preparation and training. The more you engage in relevant CME opportunities, the more confident you’ll feel in your new role.

Participating in workshops, online courses, and seminars can broaden your understanding. They also help keep you updated on the latest advancements in your chosen specialty.

Researching Your New Specialty and Practice Environment

Before making the leap, researching your new specialty can be a helpful step in understanding the expectations, challenges, and resources available for PAs in that. Especially if the specialty you're interested in is an entirely new practice environment (like moving from clinic to inpatient medicine, or from the ED to the OR), spending some time researching the day-to-day may help prepare you mentally for setting expectations. Look for articles, textbooks, online forums, specific PA organizations in that specialty, social media accounts, and other educational and mentorship resources.

You can also seek out colleagues who are currently working in that specialty. Their real-world experiences can offer valuable perspective.

Building a Support Network

Transitioning specialties doesn’t have to be a solitary journey. Building a strong support network is extremely beneficial in navigating the ups and downs of starting over. Especially if leaving your prior role due to burnout, a support network can be protective against further injury to your mental health. Here are some steps to consider:

Finding a Mentor

A mentor can provide guidance and support during your transition. They can share their experiences, offer advice, and help you navigate challenges. If you don’t already have someone in mind, consider reaching out to your professional network, local PA organizations, or even social media. We have loved serving as mentors for students and peers through our professional journey. Think we can help you move into a new specialty? Let's Talk.

Joining Professional Organizations

Professional organizations, like the American Academy of PAs (AAPA), AAPA state chapters, and specialty-specific organizations, can help you connect with others in your field. They often provide resources, networking events, and workshops tailored for PAs. Engaging with these organizations can create opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Establishing Relationships with Colleagues

Strong relationships with your colleagues can make your transition smoother. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek assistance when needed. Whether it’s asking for feedback or needing clarification on a specific procedure, patient case, or logistical nuances, collaboration can enhance your learning experience and help you grow.

Embracing Change and Taking Action

Having made career changes several times, we have navigated the tools and practices that facilitate successful transitions. It’s important to be proactive in your approach. Here are a few actionable steps you can take:

Set Clear Goals

Establishing clear, achievable goals will help you remain focused. For example, you might aim to complete a certain number of CME credits within a set timeframe or reach out to specific mentors. Break larger goals into smaller, manageable steps to monitor your progress.

Stay Open-Minded

Transitioning to a new specialty involves change, which can be challenging. Maintaining an open mindset can ease the process. Embrace the learning curve and view challenges as growth opportunities.

Be Patient

Finally, be patient with yourself. Learning a new specialty takes time and effort. Understand that it's normal to struggle initially. With persistence and dedication, you will adapt and thrive in your new role.

If you’re interested in learning more about our experiences and our advice for switching specialties, subscribe to our newsletter or meet with us!