Good afternoon NAPA,

Today, the AAPA held their House of Delegates (HOD) meeting on 20 November 2020.

The primary focus of the meeting was the title change investigation. In the PA community there are concerns that the title of Physician Assistant is not accurately portraying the full scope of the PA role. Thus, an independent investigation was made to look at the realistic ability of a title change. This investigation gathered 2 years of data (qualitative and quantitative, involving various stakeholders in healthcare, not just PAs). It explored many details, including the legal and regulatory risk of pursuing a title change.

In summary, there is a clear lack of awareness that exists outlining the true role of PAs and the current title does not help clarify the role of PAs. Thus, a brand strategy was developed. The presentation will be available for view on the AAPA’s website, Learning Central ( https://cme.aapa.org/ - can review and log CME, can also be accessed through https://cme.aapa.org/local/catalog/view/product.php?productid=232 ). Note this is only accessible to AAPA members. The investigation is restricted/confidential and we can NOT share the investigation data with non-AAPA members, at this time.

Understand that the Title Change Investigation was only presented at this year’s HOD meeting. The 2021 HOD Meeting offers opportunity for formal resolutions on this matter.

If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please reach out to your NAPA HOD representatives – LT Damico Hill, LT Bruce Burke, and LT Dale Wilson.

V/R,

NAPA HOD Representatives