A Comparative Analysis of the UK Physician Associate Curriculum Against the Prescriber Curricula for Pharmacists and Doctors

Abstract

Background: As the Physician Associate (PA) profession in the UK moves towards statutory regulation with the General Medical Council (GMC), consideration is being given to which, if any, mechanism of prescribing should be granted to PAs. This study examines the alignment between the PA educational curriculum and two pathways to prescribing authority: independent prescribing (IP) from qualification and the non-medical prescribing course. The aim is to determine whether PA education equips graduates for independent prescribing, potentially reducing the need for postqualification training. Methods: A comparative curriculum analysis was conducted by mapping the pre-2023 PA curriculum against the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) standards for pharmacist independent prescribers and the GMC outcomes for newly qualified doctors. The curriculum mapping was performed using an Excel-based comparison tool, identifying areas of direct and oblique alignment between the PA curriculum and the master curricula. Results: The analysis revealed comprehensive alignment between the PA curriculum and the competencies required for independent prescribing by pharmacists and newly qualified doctors. Key areas of alignment include patient-centred care, professional knowledge and skills, and professionalism. However, gaps were identified in the PA curriculum regarding the use of technology in prescribing and the clinical governance of prescribing. Discussion: The findings suggest that the PA curriculum provides a strong foundation for many aspects of prescribing education, supporting the idea that PAs should be granted the use of a mechanism of prescribing. Addressing identified gaps, particularly in technology use and clinical governance, could further enhance PA preparedness for prescribing roles. This could reduce the extent of any postqualification training. Future research should explore variations in clinical experience and individual readiness for independent prescribing among PAs. Collaborative efforts and ongoing curriculum refinement are essential to integrate PAs into prescribing roles while ensuring patient safety in the UK healthcare system.