The Oregon State Legislature passed a bill last month that encompasses various health care reforms, one of which changes the designation of "physician assistants" to "physician associates." Governor Tina Kotek officially signed this reform into law in April, making Oregon the first state to adopt such a title change.
Alisa Gifford, PA-C, President of the Oregon Society of Physician Associates (OSPA), noted the title adjustment is a direct result of OSPA’s advocacy efforts aimed at redefining how physician associates are perceived.
“We’ve had countless meetings with legislators to ensure they understand the vital role our profession plays in the health care system and the need for a title that better reflects this role. ... I hope it helps pave the way for other states to update their title as well” said Gifford.
The shift from "physician assistant" to "physician associate" aims to offer patients a more accurate understanding of the responsibilities of health care providers. The new title more closely aligns with the evolving and increasingly expansive roles that physician associates fulfill in today’s health care settings.