As a team-based approach has become the norm in the U.S. healthcare system, physician assistants have a growing role in the delivery of healthcare, becoming increasingly important members of the team, in primary care and across other specialities. PAs are crucial to many clinics and make sure patients are seen quickly, treated properly, and receive follow up care.
The PA profession was first proposed in the 1960s due to concerns about the supply of primary-care physicians, which led to the development and training of new types of direct care providers, like PAs. In the past 25 years, the number of PA’s has grown by 5x, to more than 100,000 certified PAs in the workforce today, according to the NCCPA. And the number of PAs is expected to continue to climb, with a projected growth rate of 30% in the next 10 years. This is great news for the delivery of healthcare, as PAs can help improve access to medical care, elevate health outcomes, and increase patient satisfaction.
Because of the valuable role that PAs play, and in honor of the AAPA conference this week, we wanted to share with you some of our favorite recent articles about PAs and their role in medicine today.
1. What It’s Like to Have the Best Job in America Right Now… hint: the best job is a PA, according to a report by Glassdoor!
2. When It’s OK to See A Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant - And When It’s Not… Explains when it might be more efficient and just as effective to see a PA or NP instead of a doctor, as well as when it makes sense to get a second opinion.
3. 8 Things Never To Say To A Physician Assistant… all those things that drive you crazy as a PA.
4. Physician Assistant Pay Reaches $100K Annually… Good news: average PA salaries are on the rise. This article shares some interesting salary range data, as well as which states have the highest median PA salaries.
5. The Best Medical Apps for PA Students, Physician Assistants and Medical Professionals… A helpful summary of some great medical apps you should have on your mobile device.
Like what you see? Sign up for bi-weekly roundups of noteworthy PA news: doximity.com.