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How can physician assistants help with the healthcare provider shortage? Nazareth hosts physician assistants conference on July 25

Nazareth University begins its PA master's degree in January 2026

Rochester, NY (07/23/2025) — Physician assistants (PA) from around the area will meet at Nazareth University on Friday, July 25, for a one-day conference to celebrate the 50th anniversary of The New York State Society of Physician Associates (NYSSPA) - focusing on the healthcare provider shortage and how PAs can help. At the same time, Nazareth is preparing to welcome its first class of students training to become future physician assistants in January 2026.

Nazareth recently announced its new hybrid Physician Assistant Master of Science (M.S.) degree. The 24-month master's program uniquely blends online and on-campus learning - one of the few hybrid programs in the U.S. - to offer accessibility for students. Students can apply now for classes that start in January 2026.

Heather Grotke, PA-C, program director of Nazareth's PA graduate degree program, can speak about the healthcare provide shortage - specifically in primary care and psychiatry/mental health, and how PAs can help fill that gap.

Nazareth's Provost Maureen Finney, who is also a physician assistant, is speaking on a panel about career and advocacy opportunities for PAs - one of the most in-demand careers of the next decade.

WHEN: Friday, July 25 | 10:15 a.m.-noon
Panel on Career and Advocacy Opportunities for PAs

WHERE: Nazareth University Arts Center | Palladoro Welcome Vista

MEDIA: Available for interviews: Heather Grotke, the physician assistant program director at Nazareth, and Nazareth's Provost Maureen Finney, who is also a PA

Please call Nazareth Chief PR Officer Julie Long if you are interested in attending at 585-781-8186 (cell).

Nazareth University

Julie Long, Chief Public Relations Officer | (585) 389-2456 | (585) 781-8186 (c) | jlong2@naz.edu

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