Author: Devon Possanza

For a second year, the PSPA is proud to co-sponsor a special event at the 2026 AAPA Conference in New Orleans: “Pride & Connection: A Social Gathering for All” on Friday May 15th, at 7:30PM at Hilton New Orleans Riverside Hotel, Floor 3, in the Magazine Room.  

This event will feature food, drinks, and mocktails in a welcoming, alcohol-free environment. Our goal is to intentionally create a space that is inclusive of sober colleagues, PA students, and all members of our community who value connection in a supportive and accessible setting.

We strongly believe in offering inclusive social opportunities that reflect the diverse needs of our profession. “Pride & Connection” is designed to foster meaningful engagement, strengthen inter-organizational collaboration, and promote a culture of belonging within AAPA.  The main organizers of the event are the LBGT Caucus and Society of PAs in Addiction Medicine, but many other constituent organizations, in addition to the PSPA are co-sponsoring this event.

Please join us for this reception at the AAPA Conference.

PSPA is excited to announce that we are now the Pennsylvania Society of Physician Associates!

As a constituent chapter of the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA), we are pleased to take this first step toward updating our profession’s title.

In September 2021, AAPA changed its name following the May 2021 AAPA House of Delegates resolution affirming “physician associate” as the official title of the profession.  To stay up to date on the National movement for title change on the PA profession, visit https://www.aapa.org/title-change/general-faqs/ to see the progress.

Can PAs start to call themselves “physician associates” yet?

PAs should continue to use “physician assistant” or “PA” as their official legal title in a professional capacity, particularly in clinical settings and with patients, until the jurisdiction governing their licensure and practice has formally adopted the title of “physician associate.” AAPA’s legal counsel, Foley & Lardner LLP, recommends that PAs refrain from representing themselves as “physician associates” at this time. Their view is based on the following:

• Implementing the new HOD policy is going to be complex and challenging and may take several years to complete. There are many considerations that require thoughtful due diligence to ensure we do not jeopardize any aspect of implementation. It would be unwise for the profession to appear to be out in front of legislatures and regulators at the local or federal level. The next few years of work will be critical and must be strategically undertaken.
• Prematurely using the term “physician associate” could subject the PA to a regulatory challenge or discipline from their licensing board or an attorney general’s office action.
• Employers or healthcare facilities where the PA has privileges could view the action as a violation of policy, procedure, or professional staff bylaws.
• There may be professional malpractice issues if adverse outcomes are linked to perceived “informed consent” violations from patients who claim they believed they were being treated by a physician. A malpractice insurer could use this as an excuse not to cover the claim.

The PSPA plans to introduce legislation soon to officially change the name of the profession in the Medical Practice Act and the Osteopathic Medical Practice Act.  Watch for updates regarding this legislation on the PSPA website and in our Monthly News Briefs.