CFB BORDEN, ON – The 23 graduates of the Canadian Forces' Physician Assistant Course were honoured by the University of Nebraska at a convocation ceremony this afternoon at CFB Borden where they became the first Physician Assistants in Canada to receive Bachelor of Science degrees from a recognised university.
“The awarding of the Bachelor of Science degrees to Physician Assistants in the Canadian Forces demonstrates the high level of professionalism and skills maintained by these military members,” said the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway. “The agreement with the University of Nebraska exemplifies the CF's commitment to ensuring lifelong learning and cutting edge training opportunities for its members.”
This academic recognition follows an initiative that resulted in the signature of a Memorandum of Understanding between the University of Nebraska's School of Allied Health Professions Physician Assistant Program and the CF Medical Service School/CF Dental Service School on June 23, 2009. The CF Medical Service School/CF Dental Service School is the first organization in Canada to be accredited by the Canadian Medical Association to train Physician Assistants.
“The graduating Physician Assistants have already proven their past dedication to patient care and hard work as medical technicians,” said Commodore Hans Jung, CF Surgeon General and Commander of the CF Health Services Group. “The additional training and university-level schooling they received will help the Canadian Forces to continue to have valued members on its multi-disciplined health care team in garrison and on the front lines.”
The University of Nebraska is recognized as a pioneer in the development of one of the most highly regarded Physician Assistant programs in the United States and has been providing American civilian and military Physician Assistants with this degree for 25 years.
“The Canadian Forces Health Services also takes the opportunity today to thank the University of Nebraska for providing a university degree that validates the extensive and comprehensive medical education of CF Physician Assistants,” said Commodore Jung.
Lt(N) Crystal Myers
Public Affairs Officer
CF Health Services Group
(613) 945-6588
