Physician Associate Case Study: Bradley Sewell

Deciding To Become A Physician Associate

I found out about the Physician Associate profession after completing my Nursing degree. After speaking to colleagues and exploring the role, I decided I would try to compete for one of the 20 NHS Wales-funded places at Swansea University at the time. Now there are 40 funded places each year, as the role has developed in the NHS.

I chose to study at Swansea because the financial support provided me with an opportunity to become a Physician Associate that I could not afford otherwise. This investment in me, alongside studying at a Medical School with an enviable reputation, made Swansea stand out – not to mention their excellent pass rate for their graduate Physician Associates at the national exams.

Studying At Swansea University Medical School

There are many aspects of the Physician Associate course at Swansea that have provided an invaluable experience. These include:

• learning anatomy through cadaver work
• having access to resourceful clinical skills labs to practise examinations and procedures
• the impressive array of clinical placements: from GP to A&E to surgery

Notably, it has been the sheer student-focused approach to Medical education that the staff have embedded in the Physician Associate programme that makes it so excellent. The community feel at the Medical School, and across campus, has supported me to succeed in my studies.

I would highly encourage prospective Physician Associate students to apply to Swansea. It’s all done through UCAS like applying for Medicine, but the deadline isn’t until January.

Becoming a Physician Associate has been the best decision I have ever made. This is an exciting time to enter this evolving profession, and Swansea will bring the best out of you.

A Physician Associate programme is ineffably intense; you will study the breadth of Medicine, learning the diagnostics and management of vast amounts of conditions. But the community here at Swansea will enable you to enjoy the powerful journey to becoming a Physician Associate.

Future Plans

I have now graduated with my Master’s degree in Physician Associate studies and passed my national exams at the Faculty of Physician Associates, Royal College of Physicians. Swansea graduates have all passed the exams since the Physician Associate course launched, which is testament to the quality of the teaching.

I have managed to secure my dream joint post as a Physician Associate in General Practice and Sexual Health and I am excited about my journey in these fields and to see what lies ahead.

I have also been given the opportunity to stay connected to Swansea University by conducting some Physician Associate research as an intern, which I aspire to publish in the coming months.

What Is A Physician Associate?

A Physician Associate is a member of the allied clinical team, trained over an intense two year master’s degree. They provide continuity of care, supporting Doctors in clinical practice under the direction of a Doctor. A Physician Associate will undertake similar tasks to a Doctor including examination, diagnosis and management of patients.

Find out more about Physician Associate Studies at Swansea University.