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Surgery

Surgery is one of the most popular PA specialties – approximately a quarter of the U.S. PA workforce practices in surgery! In addition, more and more PAs are entering the surgical field, helping to ease provider shortages and representing a larger trend towards team-based care in the operating room.

Surgical PAs are medically and surgically trained and able to practice in all phases of perioperative care. They provide pre- and postoperative care in hospitals and private practices, develop treatment plans, first and second assist at surgery, conduct rounds, write orders, prescribe medication, and support ongoing patient management.

Surgery is a demanding field but can be very rewarding especially for those who enjoy hands on detailed work that makes an immediate impact. It is possible to enjoy a great work-life balance in surgery!

In this live learning experience, you will:

  • Meet an experienced PA and hear about a typical day in a surgery
  • Get an overview of skills, procedures, and medical knowledge you will need to be successful in your clinical rotations and in the field
  • Explore case studies

Speaker: Samora Charles, PA-C, MPH

Samora is a board-certified PA who practices in the field of surgery. Her current role as a Surgical PA provides her with the unique opportunity to work alongside surgeons of varying specialties.

She received her Master of Science degree in PA Studies (MSPAS) from Harding University in 2019. As a non-traditional undergraduate student who faced many challenges in her journey to PA-C, Samora utilizes her story of perseverance and success to inspire and mentor others to achieve their dreams.

Samora is also an advocate for increased diversity in the PA profession. She is one of the founders of Physician Assistants of Color (ThePAC), a nonprofit organization that provides prospective applicants with resources such as mentorship, application guidance, scholarships, and more. Her organization also works closely with PA programs to help them facilitate and retain more diverse applicants.