The Association of Family Practice Physician Assistants is recognized for unparalleled educational and networking experiences. Adding to the tradition of excellence, AFPPA has announced their next fall conference, to be held November 4-7, 2009 in Phoenix, Arizona.

“Our conferences are one of the best ways to garner continuing medical education credits, which must be completed in order to continue practicing,” Robert Thoemke, PA, said. Thoemke is the current president of AFPPA.

With over 50 educational classes, plus 16 hands-on workshops, the opportunities have never been as stupendous. Divided into four specialty tracks (emergency medicine, pediatrics, rheumatology, and women’s health), course topics cover cardiovascular concerns (including women and heart disease), breast cancer, obesity management, arthritis and fibromyalgia, and many other topics. “It’s a lot of information – some are refresher courses, while many are quite advanced,” Thoemke explained. “We invite attendees to pick and choose from what can most benefit their patients.”

Hands-on workshops teach how to interpret EKG results (from a basic review to more advanced interpretations), how to read chest X-rays, and practicing basic dermatological procedures.

“It’s not all focused on procedures, however,” Thoemke said. “There are quite a few courses and workshops that feature lectures on office procedures, profitability, and even a course on smart phones.”

“It’s a great overall conference with good variety and knowledgeable speakers,” said Angela Nittle, PA-C of Scottsdale, Arizona. Nittle is a member of AFPPA. “It’s a pleasant experience.”

The Fall 2009 conference will be held at the Arizona Grand Resort at the base of South Mountain Preserve. Attendees are encouraged to attend networking events such as the Mexican Fiesta, blood drive, and the 5K Fun Run and Walk. “We’re in a great location this year – and not only is AFPPA hosting several social events, we encourage attendees to explore the surrounding area, including downtown Phoenix,” Thoemke said.

The Association of Family Practice Physician Assistants fosters the educational and professional interests of PAs by promoting academic and clinical excellence. AFPPA is committed to developing a strong field of family practice PAs by providing ample opportunities to receive continuing medical education credits, challenging PA students to connect with experienced PAs in a mentorship program, and immediately disseminating pertinent information to members via publications and its Web site. Contact AFPPA for more information at 770.640.7605.