Welcome from the Program Director, Ryan Hunton, DHSc, PA-C, CAQ-EM

I am excited to welcome you to the University of Kentucky Physician Assistant Academic Residency Program. Our people and network are really what makes this community and program special. Our team is focused on developing the next generation of physician assistant leaders. Growth mindset is part of our core. We are committed to each resident’s growth as a person and as a professional.

We develop physician assistant leaders through clinical training and meaningful opportunities to lead, teach, and research. Our program is considered academic because of our commitment to academic and clinical excellence. Our residency team is housed in the academic UK Department of Physician Assistant Studies, and several of our track offerings are in the academic UK HealthCare clinical network.

For half a century, the UK Physician Assistant Studies program has been developing clinicians and leaders. The residency program was created directly in response to the workforce needs of our communities throughout Kentucky for more highly trained clinician-leaders in various specialties. Upon completion of our program, our graduates have the confidence to hit the ground running and make a difference as strong members of a healthcare team.

The program is an intensive 12-month experience in clinical medicine. Learning happens through supervised clinical patient experiences, specialty-focused didactics, simulation, grand rounds, and conferences. Our program partners with clinical departments in academic and community hospitals across the state, and we provide educational track offerings in several medical and surgical specialties. You can count on working with some of the best clinical talent around as well as mentors who provide regular feedback and guidance.

My own experience in completing an emergency medicine physician assistant residency several years ago proved instrumental toward my confidence and growth as a clinician. This experience provided a positive trajectory for my clinical practice, created a great network of colleagues with whom I still work, and opened several doors to leadership opportunities. I am excited for this opportunity to be available for both new PA program graduates and practicing PAs who wish to redirect their careers or enhance knowledge, skills, and confidence.

Our program is a one-year investment in education for PAs who are seeking to build confidence and medical knowledge in a specialty. Our team looks forward to guiding you in this next step in your professional journey. Once again, welcome and thank you for your interest!

Sincerely,

Ryan Hunton, DHSc, PA-C, CAQ-EM
Program Director and Assistant Professor

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