PT - This session will cover the changes to Physical Therapy Centralized Application System (PTCAS) and Physical Therapy Admissions due to COVID-19, and also updates made to better accommodate prospective students and DPT programs.

PA - The global COVID-19 Pandemic has changed the daily lives of individuals across the globe. One area that has been greatly affected has been the healthcare industry. As PA Programs across the country begin to recruit, assess and select individuals to start in their PA Programs since COVID-19, it is important to realize that the “academic landscape” has changed. Come learn about how the University of Iowa PA Program has repurposed their recruitment, assessment and selection process for applicants since the global pandemic.

The 20-2021 residency application cycle will be distinctly different due to the effects of COVID-19 on medical education. The availability of typical application metrics might be compromised, and cancellation of away electives and implementation of virtual interviews will hinder the ability of applicants and programs to get to know each other well. This may lead to disenfranchising certain groups of applicants and may result in a suboptimal match. This session will discuss the implications of COVID-19 on the residency cycle and outline some actions applicants and programs can take to mitigate harmful effects. A student applicant and an URM house officer will be participating in the session to present their perspectives.