Mentorship effect for PAs at an academic medical center and its healthcare system

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose: Mentorship has many notable benefits. Research about mentorship for physician associates/assistants (PAs) is limited. This study sought to uncover more detailed information on mentorship and its effect on PAs. Methods: A survey was sent via email to all PAs and advanced practice registered nurses at our institution. Subgroup analysis was performed on PA respondents, including satisfaction and independent predictors associated with mentorship. Results: Of the 295 PAs, 63 (21.4%) identified having a mentor. Those with a mentor were statistically more likely to function as a mentor (OR 2.7 [95% CI 1.5-4.9], P = .001), have an academic rank of assistant professor or higher (OR 2.7 [95% CI 1.3-5.5], P = .007), be under age 45 years (OR 6.1 [95% CI 2.1-17.4], P = .008), be less than 10 years into their career (OR 3.1 [95% CI 1.7-5.7], P = .002), and be satisfied with mentorship (88.9% versus 23.9%, P < .001). Conclusions: Mentorship for PAs is crucial and can boost academic promotion and career satisfaction.