Description

2026 marks the 50th anniversary of CAPA. As part of this milestone celebration, CAPA is proud to present the Beyond the Clinic webinar series, a multi-part program highlighting career paths for Physician Associates outside of traditional clinical settings.

In this session, Beyond the Clinic: Navigating International PA Practice, Jessica Cummings, PA-C, shares her firsthand experience practicing in New Zealand and provides a comprehensive look at what it means to work as a PA in an international healthcare system. Attendees will explore the regulatory landscape of PAs in New Zealand, including recent moves toward formal regulation, and how it compares to more established models in the United States and United Kingdom.

The session will also examine differences in healthcare delivery, including New Zealand’s public health system, primary care structure, and patient population, with an emphasis on cultural considerations and team-based care. Jessica will discuss the immigration and credentialing process, professional challenges, and the evolving role of PAs in a developing system. The presentation will conclude with reflections on lifestyle, work-life balance, and the broader impact of international practice on professional identity and career fulfillment.