Central Application Service for Physician Assistants 20-Year Data Report 2002 to 2021.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Public Health
• Health Professions

Background:

• Analysis of Central Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA) data from 2002-2021.
• Assesses long-term trends in Physician Assistant (PA) admissions.
• CASPA participation increased from 51% to nearly universal adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate 20-year trends in PA admissions using CASPA data.
• To identify factors influencing PA applicant success.
• To assess progress in diversity within PA education.

Main Methods:

• Utilized CASPA data (2002-2021) for applicant behavior, academic metrics, demographics, and experience.
• Examined program participation, applicant/matriculant counts, and matriculation rates.
• Analyzed impact of program designations, GPAs, demographics, and experience on outcomes.

Main Results:

• Applicant numbers increased fivefold; matriculants tripled. Matriculation rates declined (31%-41%) despite increased seats.
• Rising GPAs and increased program designations correlated with higher matriculation odds.
• Increased Asian and Hispanic/Latina representation, but persistent underrepresentation of Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC). First-generation and economically disadvantaged applicants were less likely to matriculate.

Conclusions:

• PA education shows sustained growth but slow progress in racial, ethnic, and economic diversity.
• Current admissions strategies may not adequately promote equity.
• Further efforts are needed to enhance diversity and inclusion in PA programs.