The American Academy of Physician Associates continues its push to transition the profession away from the term “physician assistant” and toward “physician associate,” a change it says better reflects PAs’ roles in modern healthcare. While the organization formally adopted the new title in 2021, it acknowledges that full implementation at the state and federal levels will take years.
Progress remains uneven. State PA chapters must pursue rebranding and statutory changes individually, and so far only a portion have adopted the new title in official materials. A small number of states—including Oregon, Maine, and New Hampshire—have passed legislation recognizing “physician associate,” while several others are considering similar bills.
The effort has faced opposition from physician organizations concerned about patient confusion, and AAPA advises PAs to continue using their current title in clinical settings unless state law and employer policies allow otherwise. Readers can review linked resources for state-by-state updates and legislative details.