Description

Valley Healthcare System, Inc., formerly known as the Community Health Center of South Columbus, has been providing high-quality, affordable healthcare since 1994. Serving the Chattahoochee Valley region and beyond, we offer medical, dental, vision, behavioral health, outreach, and pharmacy services. We are a mission-driven organization committed to improving the health and well-being of all individuals, regardless of circumstances.

Program Overview

Valley Healthcare System, Inc. (VHcS) is committed to developing the next generation of healthcare providers through structured learning opportunities. The Physician Assistant (PA) Preceptorship Program offers PA students supervised clinical experience within a patient-centered, team-based care environment.

Participants will work alongside experienced physicians and advanced practice providers to enhance their clinical skills, gain exposure to community-based healthcare, and develop competencies in delivering high-quality care to diverse and underserved populations across the Chattahoochee Valley region.

Program Objectivities 

• Provide hands-on clinical training in a community health center setting.
• Enhance clinical assessment and diagnostic skills.
• Develop patient-centered communication and education techniques.
• Strengthen clinical documentation and workflow efficiency.
• Promote understanding of team-based and integrated care models.
• Encourage future employment opportunities within VHcS.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Observe and participate in patient care under supervision of assigned preceptor.
• Obtain patient histories and perform focused physical examinations.
• Assist in developing differential diagnoses and treatment plans.
• Document patient encounters in the Electronic Health Record system.
• Provide patient education on preventive care and chronic disease management.
• Observe and assist with clinical procedures as appropriate.
• Participate in team huddles and interdisciplinary care coordination.
• Maintain strict patient confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA guidelines.
• Follow Valley Healthcare System policies, procedures, and professional standards.

Clinical Learning Opportunities 

• Family Medicine / Primary Care
• Chronic Disease Management (Diabetes, Hypertension, Asthma, etc.)
• Preventive & Wellness Visits
• Women’s Health Services
• Pediatric Care
• Behavioral Health Integration

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in an accredited Physician Assistant program.
• In good academic standing with affiliated educational institution.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated professionalism and commitment to patient-centered care.
• Ability to work effectively within a team-based healthcare environment.

Compliance & Confidentiality

• Participants must adhere to all Federal, State, and Local healthcare regulations, including HIPAA Privacy & Security standards.
• All participants must sign a Pledge of Confidentiality and maintain confidentiality of all written, verbal, and electronic patient information.
• Participants must secure their workspaces and log off systems when unattended.
• Non-compliance may result in immediate dismissal from the volunteer program.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Frequent walking, standing, reaching, bending, and lifting.
• Ability to assist or lift patients when necessary (may exceed 50 pounds).
• Normal vision, hearing, and hand-eye coordination required.
• Must be able to perform duties under stressful conditions and irregular hours.