Physician Assistant Students Recognized for Work
with Assisted-Living Residents

Philadelphia University Physician Assistant students were honored for their work over the past 10 months with residents at the Sunrise Assisted Living in Haverford, Pa., at a May 18 ceremony that celebrated the bond between students and residents.

“The visits provided students with knowledge of assisted-living practices and helped dismiss some of the stigmas that are commonly associated with the elderly and senior-living facilities,” said Michael Rackover, director of Philadelphia University’s Physician Assistant Studies Program.

Working closely with Physician Assistant Studies adjunct faculty member Joanne Glusman, the 47 Physician Assistant students began visiting the residents at Sunrise — an international provider of senior-living services — in July. Coordinated by Rackover and Karen Sweeney, Philadelphia University clinical coordinator and assistant professor of Physician Assistant Studies, the learning endeavor sought to educate students in senior-living services and care. During monthly visits, the students learned firsthand about the multifaceted needs of the aged.

“I enjoyed getting to know the residents, said student participant Sarah McFadden ’08. “The visits have made me more comfortable working with the geriatric population and when I graduate, I will be more familiar with how to assist the elderly.”

Through exposure to clinical environments and patient contact, Philadelphia University’s Physician Assistant Studies Program provides students with a comprehensive academic experience that stresses the practical application of current medical theory.
 

Above: Physician Assistant students gather with Michael Rackover, director of Physician Assistant Studies Program (first row, left); Karen Sweeney, clinical coordinator and assistant professor of Physician Assistant Studies (first row, third from left); and residents at the Sunrise Assisted Living in Haverford, Pa., for a ceremony honoring the work they did with residents over the past 10 months.