ACADEMICS - Faculty
Heather K. T. Bidinger
Assistant Professor and Clinical Coordinator
612-330-1592
bidinger@augsburg.edu
Heather
started at Augsburg College in 2001 after practicing clinically in
family medicine and urgent care and continues part-time practice.
She is the program’s clinical coordinator and oversees student
placement and progression throughout the clinical phase. She serves
as liaison between the medical community and the program. Much of
her job is spent developing and maintaining clinical sites. “I
enjoy meeting many different members of the medical community; this
also gives me the opportunity to speak on how PAs are educated, in
what capacity they may practice and discuss current issues that impact
the utilization of PAs.”
“An important part of orchestrating good clinical opportunities for students requires knowing and understanding both preceptors and students well. Site visits and frequent communication with preceptors and facilities is necessary to understand the environment and nuances of the preceptor and site. Through student advising, site visits and listening carefully to students’ perspectives and professional goals, I try to ensure a good fit for their rotational experiences.”
Heather sees the Augsburg College PA Program as being dedicated to preparing excellent graduates. “I often get calls from preceptors on the commendable job our students are demonstrating.” She approaches students with an understanding that they will sometime soon be colleagues. “Students don’t realize they are often teachers themselves, they keep you on your toes clinically and offer alternative views on current situations in their quest to learn the profession.”
“One of the things I enjoy most about my job is watching
the progression and transformation of students from a student in the
classroom to a practicing professional. I have had the opportunity
to practice along side a number of our graduates and am proud to do
so.”