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The profession in 2002 and beyond.
1Department of Prevention and Community Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.
JAAPA : Official Journal of the American Academy of Physician Assistants
|November 19, 2002
Summary
Physician assistant (PA) growth is stabilizing, shifting from past integration factors to new demographic, educational, and practice trends. This review examines PA profession
Area of Science:
- Healthcare professions
- Medical workforce analysis
Background:
- Physician assistant (PA) numbers and utilization experienced significant growth.
- The profession's development was shaped by integration and acceptance factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the factors contributing to the current position of PAs.
- To examine emerging trends influencing the future of the PA profession.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of PA profession's history and current status.
- Analysis of demographic, educational, and practice trends.
Main Results:
- Extraordinary growth in PA numbers and utilization appears to be stabilizing.
- New demographic, educational, and practice realities are emerging.
Conclusions:
- The PA profession is at a transition point.
- Understanding current and future trends is crucial for the PA profession's continued evolution.