PARSEC > MEMBERS > PA SHADOWING

Virtual PA Shadowing

PARSEC’s Virtual PA Shadowing gives you a clear, realistic look at what PAs do in clinical practice across Canada.

Through real cases and live Q&A with practicing PAs, you’ll see how the role works in different specialties, what day-to-day responsibilities look like, and how PAs move between patients, documentation, and team-based care. Sessions also explore how PAs collaborate with interprofessional teams, support patient advocacy, and contribute to the growth of the profession.

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FAQs

What is Virtual PA Shadowing?

Virtual PA Shadowing is an online learning experience that gives members a realistic look at how PAs work across clinical settings in Canada. Sessions use real anonymized cases and open Q&A to walk you through workflows, decision-making, interprofessional communication, and specialty-specific nuances.

Who can attend?

All PARSEC members are welcome. This includes practicing PAs, PA students, educators, and internationally trained clinicians exploring the PA role in Canada.

Is this the same as in-person shadowing?

No, but it provides a structured and safe alternative. You see how PAs approach assessment, documentation, collaboration, and patient flow without exposing patient information or entering clinical spaces.

How long is each session?

Most sessions run 60-90 minutes depending on the complexity of the case and the depth of the Q&A.

What topics do the sessions cover?

Topics vary by specialty and presenter. Examples include acute care decision-making, primary care management, oncology workflows, surgical services, infectious disease cases, occupational health, northern practice, and more. Each session shows real clinical reasoning in action.

Can I request a specific specialty or topic?

Yes. Members are encouraged to submit topic suggestions. We plan future sessions based on member interest and presenter availability.

Can PA students participate?

Absolutely. Students are welcome to attend, ask questions, and use these sessions to prepare for rotations or interviews. These sessions offer insight into day-to-day PA work that is often hard to access in person.

How do I earn CPD credits?

You may claim CPD credits through PACCC.

  • Section 1 (Group Learning): Attend the session live or watch the replay within 2 weeks, then complete the evaluation form to receive a certificate.

  • Section 2 (Self Learning): Replays viewed after 2 weeks may still be logged as Section 2 CPD, but certificates are not issued.

Do I need to complete an evaluation?

Yes. To receive Section 1 CPD credit, you must submit the evaluation within 2 weeks of the live event. Evaluations are not needed for Section 2 logging.

Are sessions recorded?

Yes. Replays are available to members, though some specialty sessions may be time-limited based on presenter permissions or accreditation requirements.

Can I watch sessions on any device?

Yes. Sessions are hosted on platforms compatible with desktop, tablet, and mobile devices. For the best experience, we recommend using a computer during live events.

How do presenters choose the cases?

Cases are selected based on relevance, educational value, and alignment with PA scope. All cases are fully anonymized to protect patient privacy.

Can I present a session?

Yes. Practicing PAs can apply to present. PARSEC provides a template and support to make preparation manageable. Student co-presenters may be included if paired with a practicing PA.

How to Log CPD Credits

  • Registered PARSEC members may be eligible to claim CPD credits through the Physician Assistant Certification Council of Canada (PACCC) for participation in accredited educational events. The type of credit and documentation required depends on whether the session is attended live or viewed as a replay.

  • LIVE PARTICIPATION, RECENT VIEWING

    Section 1 CPD Credit is available for those who:

    • Attend the session liveor view the recording within 1–2 weeks

    • Complete the post-event evaluation form before the 2-week deadline

    • Are active CAPA members

    Certificates for Section 1 CPD will be issued only to PARSEC members who meet all requirements within this window.

    • After the 2-week deadline, recordings may still be reviewed and logged as Section 2 CPD. In this case, no certificate will be issued, and participants must self-report their learning using the Royal College CPD Tracking Tool.

  • REPLAY VIEWING

    Section 2 CPD refers to self-directed learning activities that expand clinical knowledge and professional competence.

    To claim Section 2 credit:

    • You must be a PARSEC Member

    • You must self-document the learning activity in the Royal College CPD Tracking Tool

    • Include the session title, duration, and a brief learning reflection

    Note: No certificate is issued for Section 2 activities. They rely on your professional integrity and self-reporting

PA CPD TRACKING TOOL →