19. The PA Program Clinical Team

Director of Clinical Education (DCE)

The Director of Clinical Education is responsible for coordinating the overall educational process during the clinical year. In this role, the DCE provides continuity and serves as a resource for preceptors interacting with the PA Program. The Director of Clinical Education works with potential preceptors to develop sites in accordance with clerkship goals and instructional objectives.

Clinical Coordinator

The Clinical Coordinators are PAs employed by Massachusetts General Hospital who are the primary points of contact for students participating in clerkship experiences within those institutions.  They engage in ongoing recruitment and support of our clinical preceptors and ensure quality clinical experiences for IHP PA students at those sites.

Primary Clinical Preceptor

The Primary Clinical Preceptor is responsible for the on-site supervision and evaluation of students in the clinical clerkship courses.  Preceptors are board-certified physicians in the discipline being studied, or PAs who are nationally certified and supervised by board-certified physicians in the appropriate discipline.  Other health professionals such as nurse practitioners or psychologists may occasionally oversee students in their clinical activities. However, the majority of the students’ clinical experiences needs to be overseen by preceptors who meet the aforementioned qualifications. 

SHRS Clinical Education Systems Analyst

This staff member coordinates communication with Complio and notifies students and faculty of issues related to health status, certification, and immunization compliance.

Program Coordinator

This staff member facilitates student communication with the clinical sites and preceptors, as well as other administrative aspects of the clinical year.

Faculty Advisor

The student’s assigned faculty advisor will continue to monitor student success as s/he progresses through the Program. They will be the student’s primary point of contact for any concerns or issues related to the clinical year experience.

Clinical Education Placement and Systems Associate

This staff member assists the DCE in the coordination of the overall education process during the clinical year and is responsible for data collection, systems improvement, and finances associated with the clinical year.