Key Takeaways
- The PA profession is officially transitioning from “physician assistant” to “physician associate” to better reflect the scope and nature of practice.
- The new title emphasizes collaboration with physicians and reduces confusion about the PA role in patient care.
- While “physician assistant” remains the legal title in most states, “physician associate” represents the profession’s future identity.
A Brief History of the PA Profession
The physician assistant profession originated in the mid-1960s to address physician shortages and expand access to care. PAs were trained to perform many of the same functions as physicians, including diagnosing, treating, and prescribing medications, while working in collaboration with supervising physicians.
Over time, the PA role has grown significantly. Today, PAs practice in nearly every medical specialty, serve in leadership positions, and are essential members of healthcare teams across the United States.
Why the Change to “Physician Associate”?
In 2021, the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) House of Delegates voted to adopt “physician associate” as the official title of the profession. The shift was motivated by several factors.
First, the name change provides clarity about the role of PAs. The term “assistant” has historically caused confusion among patients and colleagues, partly because it’s very similar to “medical assistant.” This can lead to misunderstandings about the advanced medical responsibilities of PAs.
“Associate” (as compared to “assistant”) also better reflects the collaborative, team-based nature of PA practice and the profession’s parity with other advanced practice providers. “Physician associate” is already the term for the profession in other countries outside of the U.S. For example, the U.K. finalized the name change in July 2025.
Finally, patient confidence is a key consideration behind the change. Patients are more likely to trust and seek care from clinicians whose professional title accurately conveys their level of expertise and responsibility.
How the Change Is Progressing
The transition to physician associate will take time, as legal documents, state laws, and institutional policies still reference “physician assistant.” States and organizations are slowly rolling out the change—Oregon, for example, was the first state to mandate the new title in law, followed by New Hampshire and Maine.
The AAPA has published model legislation for additional states to use.
What This Means for Pre-Health Students
For those preparing to apply to PA school, it is important to understand that the scope of practice has not changed—only the professional title is evolving.
Applicants who are aware of this shift can demonstrate professionalism and up-to-date knowledge of the field. Recognizing the significance of “physician associate” shows that you are engaged with the ongoing growth and advocacy of the profession.
A Change in Name, Not in Nature
The transition from “physician assistant” to “physician associate” marks an important milestone in the profession’s evolution. The change reflects both the maturity of the role and the need for a title that accurately communicates the expertise and collaborative function of PAs.
For pre-health students, understanding this shift provides insight into the profession’s trajectory and reinforces the value of pursuing a career as a PA.
