PPASO's Health Liason - Patricia A. DeMoor, PA-C, MS

"I’m going to be a physician assistant!” my then-boyfriend confidently declared back in 1991, my sophomore year at the University of New Hampshire.

“What’s that?” I asked, having never heard the term. At the time, I was a biochemistry major on the pre-med track, fully set on becoming a physician. But as he explained the role of a physician assistant, I found myself intrigued. I’d always seen myself as someone who worked best as part of a team—more follower than leader. The PA role sounded ideal: being a vital member of a healthcare team dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care. Over the next couple of years, as I completed medical school prerequisites, I also began researching the PA profession. Many factors ultimately influenced my decision, but in the end, I chose to pursue a career as a physician assistant—a decision I’ve never once regretted in my 22-year career so far.

My journey to becoming a physician assistant took a winding path, with each step shaping who I am today. After graduating from UNH with a Bachelor of Science, I worked with patients with head injuries as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist for a year. I then returned to school to earn an Associate’s Degree in Science, becoming a registered Medical Assistant. I enjoyed a fulfilling five-year career as a Medical Assistant at a busy primary care practice. My first PA program application resulted in a waitlist spot, but on my second attempt, I applied to four programs, was waitlisted by two, and accepted at Northeastern University in Boston.

One week before graduating with a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies, I was fortunate to receive a job offer from MD Anderson Cancer Center, the nation’s top cancer center. Now, as a Senior Physician Assistant at UC San Diego Health, I specialize in novel cellular therapies, primarily working with patients with cancer. My involvement with the PPASO program began in October 2011 when I was approached to speak at a general business meeting, and in March 2015, I joined their Dine With a PA event. Since then, I have mentored around eight PPASO students, attended three Dine With a PA events, and spoken at three general meetings. Today, as the Health Liaison for PPASO, I arrange shadowing opportunities for PPASO students with PAs at UC San Diego Health.

In my current role, my primary focus is caring for inpatients receiving cell products or immunologic drugs, and those admitted with treatment-related complications. I work 10- or 12-hour shifts, three to four days a week, starting at 7 a.m. with an inpatient census check. I review the last 24 hours’ events—rapid response calls, vital signs, fluid intake/output, pain scores, medications administered (especially as-needed medication use), lab results, consult notes, nursing notes, and more. I then pre-round with each patient to review overnight events, assess their current condition, perform a physical exam, and answer any questions.

After pre-rounds, I meet with my attending physician to present an oral report for each patient before we conduct rounds together. We develop a plan of care tailored to each patient’s needs and conditions. Throughout the day, I write orders, request consults, collaborate with the interdisciplinary team, and follow up on tests and consult recommendations. I aim to visit each patient at least twice more, mid-day and before heading home, to ensure all needs are addressed. At the end of my shift, I sign out to the physician covering my patients overnight.

The most challenging aspect of my career has undoubtedly been the loss of several patients over the past 22 years in oncology. However, the relationships I’ve built with these patients and their loved ones have been most rewarding. My love for my career and the bonds I’ve formed have helped carry me through the emotional times when a patient does not survive after fighting a grueling battle with cancer.

My advice for anyone interested in becoming a physician assistant is to avoid the common misconception that we are “physician’s assistants.” There’s no possessive noun in “physician assistant”—we do not belong to our physician colleagues. Other tips: write a compelling personal statement and gain hands-on experience in a patient-facing role to make sure you truly love caring for patients before committing to this career. Speak with several PAs across various specialties, and apply to at least 10 programs (or 20 if possible—the competition is fierce!). Strengthen your science GPA by retaking courses if needed while working, and don’t give up! In PA school, absorb everything—one day, you’ll rely on that knowledge to keep patients safe and help them recover. Take one day each week during PA school to relax, recharge, and put studies aside. Finally, consider starting in general medicine before specializing; it builds a strong foundation that will make you a better specialist.

Best of luck to everyone who dreams of becoming a physician assistant. It’s a rewarding career, especially once you find the right fit. And if you’re wondering—my boyfriend from 1991 didn’t become a licensed physician assistant, but I’m forever grateful to him for introducing me to the career so early in my journey.