A qualitative analysis of PA leaders in Kentucky

Noah Gadd, Whitney Wright, Jena Dooley, Hannah Stumbo, Emily Marshall, Will Ewers, Virginia L. Valentin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Objective: To describe Kentucky's physician associate/assistant (PA) leadership pathway and provide advice for individual leadership trajectories. Methods: A qualitative study using semistructured interviews and inductive coding methodology to identify themes of PA leaders. Results: Participants were primarily female (76.2%), ages 35 to 44 years (52.4%), and White (90.5%). They were primarily nonclinical (38.1%), described achieving their current leadership role by pursuing opportunities (42.9%), showed emotional intelligence (61.9%), had grit (61.9%), and did not feel that academic success correlates to leadership (42.9%). Leaders also gave advice consisting of form connections, prioritize personal growth, develop an entrepreneurial mindset, and play to your strengths. Conclusions: Leadership is needed in healthcare and PAs are primed to serve in this role. Previous leadership experience is not a requirement, but organization, emotional intelligence, and grit are required. Future PA leaders should follow the playbook laid out by these leaders and begin today with investing in personal leadership development.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)38-42
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of the American Academy of Physician Assistants
Volume38
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 1 2025

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2025 American Academy of Physician Associates.

Keywords

  • PA leaders
  • academic success
  • emotional intelligence
  • leadership
  • leadership model
  • physician associate/assistant

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Nurse Assisting

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