Analysis of Web Texts: Part One of Four

Web Text: Competencies for the Physician Assistant Profession

This web text clearly expresses the importance of communication to the physician assistant discourse community. Without strong communication skills, the relationships between physicians and PAs and between PAs and patients will suffer, causing adverse consequences for all three of these groups.

"Interpersonal and communication skills encompass the verbal, nonverbal, written, and electronic exchange of information. Physician assistants must demonstrate interpersonal and communication skills that result in effective information exchange with patients, patients’ families, physicians, professional associates, and other individuals within the health care system. Physician assistants are expected to: 

1. create and sustain a therapeutic and ethically sound relationship with patients 
2. use effective communication skills to elicit and provide information 
3. adapt communication style and messages to the context of the interaction 
4. work effectively with physicians and other health care professionals as a member or leader of a health care team or other professional group 
5. demonstrate emotional resilience and stability, adaptability, flexibility, and tolerance of ambiguity and anxiety 
6. accurately and adequately document information regarding care for medical, legal, quality, and financial purposes"

Link to full web text can be found here:https://www.nccpa.net/Upload/PDFs/Definition%20of%20PA%20Competencies.pdf