Physician Assistant students learn anatomy from trauma surgeons

By Kate Hunger

The Physician Assistant Studies program is trying something new this summer with its first-year Clinical Anatomy class. For the first time, trauma surgeons from the Department of Surgery are teaching the course, which consists of both classroom lectures and gross anatomy labs. 

Having surgeons teach the course gives students a deeper understanding of the clinical aspects of the subject matter, said Meredith Quinene, DHSc, MPAS, PA-C, assistant professor and academic coordinator. 

"We wanted a clinical aspect to anatomy," that trauma surgeons are uniquely able to provide, she explained. 

Quinene said students are engaged and enthusiastic about the course. 

"It gives them a better overall understanding," she said. "They are able to apply what they are learning." 

Paul Allen Sr., D.Sc., PA-C, assistant professor, director and chair of the Physician Assistant Studies program, said trauma surgeons' deep expertise with anatomy offers students a rich clinical perspective. 

The summer semester ends Aug. 17.