SCPE Commuting & On-Call Responsibilities

Recognizing our students' diverse needs and circumstances, the School of Physician Assistant Studies is committed to providing flexibility regarding commutable supervised clinical practice experiences (SCPE). Students are granted the autonomy to decide which clinical rotations are deemed commutable based on their individual circumstances, considering factors such as proximity, transportation, and personal commitments.

While students are free to make decisions regarding commutability, it is imperative to note that the expectations and stipulations associated with clinical rotations will remain consistent. All students are expected to adhere to the established curriculum, learning outcomes, and professional standards regardless of the location of their SCPE.

Key Expectations & Stipulations:

1. Commuter Expectations: Students must fulfill all curricular requirements associated with each SCPE, including attendance, participation, and completion of assigned tasks. Commuting distance and time, along with the associated variables of traffic and weather, are not generally acceptable reasons for arriving at your SCPE site late, leaving early, requesting time off, or declining an assignment given to you by the preceptor. In addition, decisions to commute should be carefully made so as not to hinder full participation, thereby allowing the student to take advantage of all educational experiences offered by your preceptor.

2. Stipulations Regarding On-Call Time: Students should expect to be assigned and participate in overnight on-call duties as assigned by the preceptor, particularly when on a Surgery or Women's Health SCPEs.  For on-call hours, students must be within a 45-minute arrival time from your assigned site (unless otherwise specified by your preceptor).  On-call duties are set by each preceptor to maximize your learning experience and exposure. The amount of on-call time will vary and should be discussed on your first day of the SCPE.  Assigned on-call time is not an elective activity.

By implementing this policy, the program aims to support the diverse needs of its student body while maintaining the integrity and quality of the supervised clinical practice experience. The School of Physician Assistant Studies remains committed to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment where students have the autonomy to make decisions that align with their individual circumstances while upholding the program's expectations and standards.