Want to Learn More About the Accreditation Process? Become a Site Visitor

Have you wondered how programs are meeting the new ARC-PA Standards — perhaps the new diversity standard or the requirement for instruction on preventing provider impairment and burnout? The best way to find out is to become an ARC-PA site visitor.

The Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) is seeking applications from individuals interested in volunteering their time as an ARC-PA site visitor.

The site visit is an essential and unique step in the accreditation process and site visitors serve a critical role in providing information to ARC-PA about a PA program’s demonstrated compliance with the Standards. It is through the written report of the site visitors that it is possible to verify, validate and clarify information submitted in the program’s accreditation application and to receive a perspective about the program operations that can only be obtained through direct observation.

Site visitors are selected from a pool of PA and physician educators, clinically practicing PAs, and others involved in PA education. They are asked to participate in two to three visits per year. Site visitors receive no compensation for their services; however, travel and other direct costs associated with in-person site visits are reimbursed by ARC-PA.

Who Can Apply?

• PA program educators (full time, adjunct, or clinical faculty associated with an accredited PA program) with a minimum of five years of experience as a PA program educator
• Preceptors associated with PA programs with a minimum of five years association with a PA program
• Other individuals knowledgeable about PA education

Expectations of Site Visitors

Site visitors must:

• Possess superior analytical, written, verbal, and interpersonal abilities
• Be attentive to detail, open-minded, and able to follow directions
• Have the time needed to comprehensively review program materials and conduct from two to three program visits per calendar year
• Agree to participate in ARC-PA-sponsored site visitor preparation
• Agree to abide by ARC-PA conflict of interest guidelines
• Not participate in consultative activities related to PA accreditation for any program subject to ARC-PA accreditation, even if not for personal gain. Such activities shall not be conducted while serving as a site visitor or for one year thereafter.

How to Apply

Qualified individuals should submit the following documents to the ARC-PA:

1. A letter of interest detailing why the applicant believes they should be considered as a site visitor. This letter should address the applicant’s involvement with PA education and should demonstrate a clear understanding of the responsibilities involved in the site visitor role.
2. A current curriculum vitae/resume. Please include complete mailing and email addresses and a daytime phone number.
3. A letter of support from the applicant’s immediate supervisor addressing the applicant’s qualifications to serve in the role. The letter should also confirm that the applicant has the time required for the site visitor role.

All documents must be in Microsoft Word.

Applications must be submitted electronically to newsitevisitor@arc-pa.org by Friday, February 26, 2021.

Prior to participating in the site visit process, selected site visitors must attend a site visitor workshop, which will be held November 6-7, 2021.

For questions or concerns, please contact Tabitha Sharp at (770) 476-1224 or via email tabithasharp@arc-pa.org