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The need for greater diversity in the PA profession
1Bettie Coplan is an associate clinical professor at Northern Arizona University and adjunct faculty member at Arizona State University, both in Phoenix. Shani Fleming is a doctoral student at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
Summary
Increasing diversity in the Physician Assistant (PA) profession is crucial for addressing healthcare disparities. Recent trends show a decline in underrepresented minorities in PA programs, necessitating strategic interventions.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Workforce Diversity
- Health Equity
- Physician Assistant Profession
Background:
- A diverse healthcare workforce is essential for reducing health disparities in the United States.
- Historically, Physician Assistant (PA) programs had higher minority enrollment than medical schools, but this trend has reversed.
- The PA profession currently faces challenges in increasing diversity within its ranks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the importance of diversity in the PA workforce.
- To identify obstacles faced by underrepresented minority students and PA educators.
- To propose recommendations for enhancing diversity in PA programs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on healthcare workforce diversity.
- Analysis of trends in PA program enrollment.
- Discussion of challenges and recommendations for PA education.
Main Results:
- The rationale for a diverse PA workforce is well-established for addressing health inequities.
- Underrepresented minorities face significant barriers in accessing and completing PA education.
- The PA profession's growth offers a unique window for implementing diversity initiatives.
Conclusions:
- Sustained commitment to diversity, targeted outreach, research, and policy changes are vital.
- Addressing obstacles requires a multi-faceted approach involving educational institutions and professional organizations.
- Enhancing diversity in the PA profession is critical for achieving equitable healthcare outcomes.
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