AAPA Facebook Conversations about Full
Practice Authority and Responsibility
Through January 27, 2017
Becky Dodd, PA-C addresses the issue of full practice authority and responsibility and its role in preserving
the relationship between PAs and physicians.
Becky Dodd, PA-C Provides her Perspective on Full Practice Aut...
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Sams Elebash While I am about to be a RN, have to take the NCLEX next Friday. I follow this page and a NP page
to see the differences in how PAs and NPs are trained. From my perspective of working with NPs and PAs in an
emergency room setting both career paths produce people that are more than capable of making their own decisions.
I was not aware the PAs were as restricted as they are when I would personally argue that PAs receive better training
because of how PA school is organized. I am planning to go to NP school because I already have my nursing degree
but if I had to go back and do it over again I think I would have preferred the PA route.
I do not see a problem with PAs and NPs being able to practice without constant oversight because both went to
school to treat patients at a higher level than a RN. With NPs having higher autonomy is this a result of the nurses
association having better lobbyists or is it some regulation from the AMA?
Like · Reply · 4 · January 27 at 5:15pm
John Blank Better lobby.
It's not just the training model. NP's are constrained to one field, whereas a PA can 'bounce around' (example: a PA
can start a career in cardiac surgery and maybe it's not for them, they can goto cardiology or pediatrics or general
medicine or any other field - an NP can't do this). It's the difference between a physician model vs a nursing model. If
I understand the nursing model correctly, a nurse works for 5 years in a field (say a NICU) and then goes on to
become an NP - in NICU. An NP can't 'bounce around' and goto an ER, or cardiology or obstetrics. *a better example
would be a Warrant Officer in the military vs a regular officer. A warrant is trained in one thing (say, flying helicopters)
which is where they will stay for their entire career.
Like · Reply · 23 hrs
Sams Elebash NPs can bounce around if they're family practice because it encompasses the entire lifestyle. Most of
the NPs at our ERs are family practice and they've also worked in cardiology, nephrology, etc as NPs. You can also
start NP school right away after passing NCLEX it just depends on the school rules.
The PAs are trained as overall generalists though which makes them super versatile and they essentially go to a
condensed medical school.
Like · Reply · 2 · 23 hrs
John Blank ^^ yes!
A lot of it is also determined by each state. Texas, NC, GA, FL and some others are very PA friendly.
Like · Reply · 23 hrs
Sams Elebash Alabama is a very friendly PA state as well. Our PAs in the ER are great
Like · Reply · 23 hrs
Jillian Benson No this can't wait any longer! ! I fully agree! We as PAs aren't "supervised" anyway. I run an urgent
care center on my own. Sure I can call the physician with questions but he is not on site. I am responsible for the
patients I see. Please continue to push forward AAPA! !
Like · Reply · 8 · January 25 at 10:18am
Devin Timothy I am really curious what the AMA has to say about this. I think that relationship is important to
maintain as we are trained to practice that same model unlike NPs which do not have the endorsement of the AMA.
There's a reason for that. I don't seek full autonomy, I seek collaborative practice. That physician had spent many
more years than I have in preparing and their perspective and counsel can be crucial in ensuring that I provide
accurate dx and tx.
Like · Reply · Yesterday at 12:07pm
Joe Justice everyone is going into the same boiling pot of socialist gruel. The bulk of this country expects the few of
us who are capable to keep our noses to the grindstone.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 27 at 9:31am
Bea Balsamo this is way past due, I have been a PA in NM for 36 years (and an RN before) and the truth is that we
are not supervised, and the legal stigma is costing us jobs and causing the doctors headaches. We call someone if
we need help, just as any doctor will, and take responsibility for our patients.
Like · Reply · 1 hr
Austin Marshall I fully support this viewpoint and appreciate the AAPA for posting content like this to be transparent
and vulnerable with its members.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 25 at 7:52am
Ron Chelednik I believe all the complaining are hurting your careers. All PA's work under the AMA 'American
medical Association' and this request does not benefit the AMA. PA's know this, Physicians know this. From day one,
before even walking into the classroom to acquire your education you know you will not have independent practice.
Doesn't matter how many years of experience one has, a PA is a physicians assistant not a physician who has been
granted independent practice.
So please don't compare yourself to NP's and bring them into your sorrows, because your not NP's and NP's are not
PA's. The training and approach to primary care are different and NP's are not governed under the AMA but the
ANA.
All I see is jealousy, of highly qualified medical personnel complaining who earned highly esteemed jobs complain
that they don't have what NP's have. It's sad to bring them into this mire 'complaining PA's for independent practice'
as a reason for change. What ever happened with contentment?
So if you continue with your mission, don't bring NP's into it as a form of justification.
Like · Reply · 2 · January 26 at 4:53am
Carl Bemis Why are you commenting here? Are you an NP? It appears from other posts that your wife is the NP.
PA's welcome the informed opinions of others but if you are not the NP yourself, this just looks like trolling.
Like · Reply · 3 · January 26 at 5:18am
Ron Chelednik this keeps coming up on my screen so what do you want? Me to ignore it? Not going to happen. Yes
wife NP in school attaining her DNP and has 3 Bachelors. Me I'm retired. But it is a PA that nearly killed me trying to
act independently instead of working with her physician that cost me to be in the hospital for a total of 57 days eight
surgeries and nine months of rehab. So yes I have something to say about it.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 26 at 4:38pm
Ron Chelednik Carl Bemis when this comes up on my screen on my cell phone I'm going to have a comment. Yes
my wife has 3 bachelors besides her Masters as a FNP and in school attaining her doctorate DNP. But when a PA
acting independently of her physician and nearly killed me causing me great pain besides being hospitalized for a
total of 57 days eight surgeries and nine months of rehab. No I'm not a troll. How dare you.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 26 at 4:42pm
Carl Bemis Ron Chelednik clearly no one wants a bad outcome with their patient and I clearly do not know the
circumstances of your situation. I submit to you that the damage done to you by this provider does not indicate that
the aspirations of a career field are wrong. Could it not have been the mistake of a physician or in fact a nurse
practitioner that could have rendered you in the same position? I did not call you a troll. To call you a troll would have
been to use a noun. I used trolling as an adjective. How dare I? You have comments on a wide array of other medical
website extolling the virtues of NP's (which are many in my opinion) and bashing physicians and other providers.
Please allow the PA community to debate among themselves whether FPAR is right for us. There are tomes of data
that support the excellent care of PA's and the natural evolution of our career field coupled with the growing need for
rural primary care providers dictate the need for FPAR. I am sorry you had a poor outcome, but there are hundreds of
thousands, if not millions of patients who have had good outcomes with PA care
Like · Reply · 8 · January 26 at 7:54pm
Monte Wilson There is a difference between independent practice vs full practice authority, you sir are not a PA or
NP so I won't waste time trying to explain, if you have an axe to grind do it elsewhere, NP's screw up too!
Like · Reply · 1 · January 26 at 9:40pm
R Kevin Chin I want to be a PA....period. We're fighting a much larger political force. What is the medium of support?
Like · Reply · January 26 at 9:47pm
EWS-CENTER.AAPA.ORG
American Academy of PAs
January 12 at 5:05pm ·
“FPAR is a natural evolution of our profession.”- Ron Byerly, PA-C
Ron Byerly, PA-C provides his perspective on full practice authority (FPAR) for PAs. AAPA
welcomes your thoughtful and transparent feedback. Please email us at [email protected]
David Pellin It's the ONLY next logical step. It can be framed in any number of ways, but at the end of the day the
fact remains that we are the only group of practitioners still chained by bureaucracy. I'm still on board with the
"associate" name change. We aren't, and haven't been for many years, assistants. Scope of practice and delivering
care to our highest ability was mentioned and is paramount. In my last job, I was unable to perform a number of
procedures that would have benefited the community greatly, simply because my collaborating physician was not
trained for them (example - circumcisions). It's a travesty. Change the name to Physician Associate and let our
badges show our name (including a Dr. if you possess a relevant doctorate) followed by PA-C, FPAR....
Like · Reply · 19 · January 13 at 3:29pm
Hide 12 Replies
Tunde Koya AMEN! Well said.
Like · Reply · January 14 at 11:19am
Brian Western First, It is not the only next logical step. You feel the physician assistant profession is threatened by
the expansion of NP autonomy, so the only logical next step is to increase physician assistant autonomy? How about
focusing the political efforts of the AAPA on having some respect for your profession as a physician assistant, and by
extension, your role as a supervised midlevel and work to limit the expansion of the NP autonomy. You chose to
complete a ~2-year post-bachelor education to become a physician assistant. You were trained to work under a
physician license. You were trained to work under physician authority. You are not "chained by bureaucracy," you are
practicing inside the context that defines your profession. Your scope of practice under a physician's license may be
increasing in regards to procedures performed, etc., but a physician assistant by definition works under physician
license. I've said it before and I'll say it again, the response to the expansion of midlevel (NP) autonomy is NOT to put
more non-physicians into physician roles.
Second, introducing yourself to a patient as a "doctor" is misleading in the clinical setting. You know that. Everyone
knows that.
Everyone wants to be a doctor, call themselves a doctor, do what doctors do.... but nobody wants to go to medical
school. There is a reason the established medical education system is as rigorous as it is. If you want to expand your
scope of practice so you can be independent, why don't be like many other PAs before you and actually go to
medical school.
Like · Reply · 9 · January 14 at 3:58pm
Jill Vargo Cavalet Amen!
Thank you for voicing this important opposing view.
Like · Reply · January 14 at 9:05pm
👍👍�
👍👍�
👍👍�
Thee Pope (standing ovation)
Like · Reply · January 14 at 10:06pm
Anh Tran I agree with every point you have made Brian, except your tone and in your last paragraph. Alot of midlevels didn't go to medical school because of the amount of time it takes to become a physician. The time it takes to
create a clinician is a large reason why we have mid-level to begin with. I would never dream of sending a 3rd or 4th
year to practice medicine on their own with out supervision, but I do think there needs to be an adjustment with how
much more a seasoned (key word) mid-level can do. I don't think full practice is the answer, but a way of providing
more autonomy. At the end of the day, it's not about what initial is at the end of your name but what quality of care is
actually provided to the patient. So many new practicing doctors blatantly discard seasoned mid-levels because of
what initials are behind their name while heightening their own knowledge because of their own insecurities. These
attitudes ultimately hinder the quality of patient care.
Like · Reply · January 15 at 10:52am
Brian Western My tone was harsher in the last paragraph, yes. And I do agree that there are many barriers to
becoming a physician that influence one's decision to become an NP/PA over attending medical school. However
creating a backdoor approach to fully autonomous medical practice is not at all appropriate.
Like · Reply · January 15 at 11:49am
Anh Tran I'm glad we are now in complete agreement. Your tone was harsh and full autonomy is not okay for
midlevels.
Like · Reply · January 15 at 3:06pm
John Kim Lefler The name Dr., Doctor, is used by many that have received doctoral degrees that aren't physicians
in healthcare. Optometry, Chiropractic, Administration, Podiatrist, Dentists etc.
Mid-level is also is a term from the insurance companies. Who is the upp...See More
Like · Reply · 1 · January 16 at 7:17pm
Dana Coker Brian Western are you a PA, or a physician?
Like · Reply · January 17 at 4:17am
Roland Paquette Dana looks like he graduated from a chemistry undergrad last year.
Like · Reply · 2 · January 17 at 9:32am
David Pellin Brian Western would you kindly answer the question posed by Dana Coker? Just to refresh, she asked
whether you were a PA or an MD. I'm positive you're not the latter. Are you even a PA? And congratulations on your
recent cum laude chemistry degree; I suppose the magna or summa got displaced in the lab....
Like · Reply · January 17 at 10:05am
Rob BC III He's a first year medical student. Talks like he's an experienced physician. Obviously will have issues in
the sandbox because he doesn't play well with others.
Good luck with that attitude, Dr. Western
Like · Reply · 1 · January 17 at 10:10am
Write a reply...
Cole Johnson Bad idea. Do you honestly think the Docs and the professional medical societies would support this?
NPs have it at the VA, and I would support parity. However outside of the VA system it's not feasible. It's contrary to
the foundation of PA practice.
Like · Reply · 12 · January 13 at 6:38pm
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Mallory Elizabeth Bryant Are you a PA?
Like · Reply · January 13 at 7:02pm
Cole Johnson Mallory Elizabeth Bryant yup.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 13 at 7:11pm
Jill Delana Short Cole, not only do NPs have full Practice authority in the VA but also in 18 states, I believe, have
granted NP'S full practice authority. Yes, we want parity of practice rights with NPs. We are as knowledge, and our
training is more rigorous. PA program admissions are more competitive. We are also required to sit for recertification
exams (NP's only their boards once) . PAs are required to obtain more CME to maintain our license every two years. I
believe PAs deserve parity of practice rights.
Like · Reply · 5 · January 13 at 8:49pm
Cole Johnson Jill I'm a former nurse, and chose to become a PA over an NP. I fully understand the differences (and
similarities) between the two.
Primary care, peds? Ok yeah, full authority works. Specialties? Forget about it.
Again, do you think that the Docs and medical societies would support our request? Without their support, it would be
futile.
Like · Reply · 3 · January 13 at 10:27pm
Nichole Bateman Satterwhite It must happen. Healthcare has evolved. The role of the PA has evolved. The industry
requires that we professionally evolve. We have to respect our history and be willing to embrace our role in an
industry that is shifting and changing. If we don't, we risk become less viable for our professional future. And it no
longer matters if physicians and medical societies support this transition. They have not exactly been just and fairly
inclusive of our profession, despite our historical roots together. The future will not and should not be defined by any
other profession but our own. FPAR is the natural growth of our profession. It does not cleave us from the healthcare
team. It allows us to be responsible and accountable - as all professionals should be - for ourselves. It removes
unnecessary barriers. It allows for self-regulation as other professionals are or are headed towards. We can no longer
depend on or expect that others (physicians) will advocate fully for PAs in this changing environment. They don't now
and won't in the future. We must do that ourselves.
Like · Reply · 4 · January 13 at 10:28pm
David Pellin NPs have it on a MUCH larger scale than merely the VA. I'm not intending to be disrespectful, but have
you really been paying attention to this issue?? We are mere years away from truly becoming "assistants." Like the
ones who check you in at the "Doctor's" office. We need to wake up as a profession. Quickly!!
Like · Reply · 6 · January 14 at 2:09am
David Pellin Nichole Bateman Satterwhite outstanding retort!!
Like · Reply · January 14 at 2:14am
Cole Johnson David, Nichole, Jill and Mallory what specialties do you work in? Just curious.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 14 at 10:57am
Jill Delana Short Family practice
Like · Reply · January 14 at 12:27pm
Nichole Bateman Satterwhite OB/GYN
Like · Reply · January 14 at 1:54pm
Cole Johnson Thanks for responding. FPAR is doable in family med, primary care, etc. I work in CV surgery, there is
no scenario where FPAR is workable. Or am I wrong?
Like · Reply · 5 · January 14 at 2:04pm
Nichole Bateman Satterwhite And I think you are misunderstanding the intent of FPAR. Our ability to function
should NOT be legally dependent on another professional. Our regulatory oversight should FUNCTIONALLY be
overseen by majority PA boards, not a token PA member on the state BOM who really has no impact in board
direction. Our solvency as a profession should not lie in physician perception of who's more "work" - a PA or an NP
because we require cosignature (or they perceive we are even in settings we are equivalent). FPAR is applicable
even for specialties and does not change how we function in our working relationships. I think that's the erroneous
assumption of many - that we'll just go flip a shingle up and independently open up shop to practice general surgery.
That's not it. It's about reassessing how and by whom we are regulated and if present laws actually reflect how we
practice medicine in today's environment. Most states have practice acts dating back to the 1970s that were
appropriate for the profession in it's early days. Now, many of those laws are not functional for how we really practice
today, even in the specialty setting. And I believe it will be more accepted than many believe - physician practice has
changed too. They need not be burdened with unnecessary regulatory tasks that don't benefit patient care or safety.
Like · Reply · 3 · January 14 at 4:45pm · Edited
Cole Johnson Nichole, yes you're right. I was misunderstanding the initiative. With that said, i do think physician
group support would be instrumental in the proposed changes. I've been an HOD delegate in the past, but have been
removed from the policy arena for a couple years now. It seemed with any bigger change having the support and
lobby of the physician groups was always if not "mandatory" at least a nice thing.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 14 at 2:20pm
Melvin Oxendine Cole Johnson who's to say it can't be done, even in CT surg. You could have your own team from
table to follow up and be hired by the hospital or surgeon. Really no difference. We should jump on every opportunity
to expand. Regardless if it affects individuals directly. Trust me these small steps add up to leaps when we look back.
Like · Reply · January 14 at 3:17pm
Nichole Bateman Satterwhite You're right that organized physician support would be nice but that has not been the
by-and-large reality our profession has experienced from physician orgs. The AMA and AAFP - two frenimies of the
PA profession - want us around as long as we serve t...See More
Like · Reply · 1 · January 14 at 3:33pm
Cole Johnson Well said. Thanks for your thoughtful comments, you've helped me gain a much better perspective on
this issue.
Like · Reply · 2 · January 14 at 4:45pm
Nichole Bateman Satterwhite You too Cole. We're making progress! Even the HOD, which in my sole personal
view, has been an unintentional hindrance to the AAPA in the past. As the policy making body of our profession, the
HOD has been reluctant to be progressive, fearful actually. With that said, I also feel strongly about being respectful
to the people like you who offered your time, money and hours away from family to do what made sense during those
years while people like me were asleep at the wheel for the first 15+ years of my career, blissfully professionally
disconnected from what it takes to advocate for our profession. It's easy to be critical when you're uninvolved, right?
Anyhoo, I had a few sentinel professional events - of which all of the above impacted - that slapped me in the face
and made me realize I had to get involved and help out a little. We all do in some way for the good of all PAs.
Thanks, too, for the convo!
Like · Reply · January 14 at 5:01pm
Jill Vargo Cavalet Nichole Bateman Satterwhite your explanations are intelligent and appear factual. Thank you. My
concern is with new grads because I train them and see them out the door of our program-- how does this proposal
address the new grad/ or even someone working a few years, which, I can hope we all agree, are not prepared to
practice independently?
Like · Reply · 1 · January 14 at 9:12pm · Edited
David Pellin Cole Johnson family medicine (rural).
Like · Reply · January 15 at 7:39am
Theresa L Mclaughlin The PA profession was developed because of the need for PCP in many areas of the US , I f
which the need was met !! There is still a great need ! The PA profession has been tried and true , and needs to
evolve!! We need to have the laws changed to support FPAR..
Like · Reply · January 15 at 11:21am · Edited
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom Jill Vargo Cavalet that is a concern of mine as well, how will that be addressed? I am
also concerned about what our malpractice cost would be, how surgical PAs will be affected, and how physicians will
respond to this as we are essentially asking for the same rights and responsibilities they have without going through
the schooling they did. Can anyone address this?
Like · Reply · January 15 at 10:28pm
Write a reply...
Tunde Koya I think people get lost in what FPAR is trying to achieve. The issue is not gaining parity with medical
doctors or trying to overstep them in the continuum of care.
FPAR is an opportunity for PAs everywhere to gain full control of their profession while simultaneously gaining parity
with NPs who have already established themselves as independent practicitioners. That being said, we would still be
a vital component of the medical team and when a situation that requires a consult presents itself, we will seek the
proper healthcare provider. We do not need our hands held as if we are incompetent.
Many PAs have lost opportunities to NPs because they are perceived to be less of a liability. Their education is
nowhere as intensive or as thorough as PAs in regards to the standard medical model, yet they were wise enough to
seek and be granted FPAR when presented with the opportunity.
The "go to medical school" argument is fallacious and is nothing more than a red herring. It bares no substance in the
debate for FPAR.
I implore all those against FPAR to truly do their research in the 4 basic tenets of the proposal and see how the entire
profession stands to benefit.
I, as well as many PAs and PA students that I interact with, am for Full Practice and Responsibility. Thank
you American Academy of PAs!
Like · Reply · 8 · January 14 at 11:32am
Bret Cornn I agree with better positioning in terms of reimbursement and self-regulation, but I don't think this is the
right direction. I fell pretty strongly that my state medical society will be threatened by this and will assume a strong
adversarial stance. Professional suicide in my state.
Like · Reply · 6 · January 14 at 10:54am
Robert Fairfax You want to be a doctor go to med school. We do what we do because we are PA s. I chose this
profession for a reason and am proud of my position and what I do!
Like · Reply · 6 · January 14 at 12:56am
David Pellin This debate has little to do with choosing an MD program over the PA tract. Our training in regards to
didactic, clinical, and hours in a classroom have become so close it's almost laughable. In fact, many MD programs
are developing fast tracts for family medicine (our backbone) that essentially mirror our programs!! This debate is
about independent, autonomous practice. We are no longer ASSISTANTS - plain and simple. Having our scope of
practice determined by physicians is counterproductive. In so many settings, there are many skills that we possess
that we aren't able to utilize because of our restrictive relationship with them. This is not to say that we abandon
collaboration. MDs consult with each other on a daily basis. I've had MDs consult me. This type of move will foster a
different kind of collaboration: one that is based on a true team model based on parity, rather than our current
subjugate role within that team. I'm a PA and proud of it, just as you are. Nothing will ever change that. What needs to
change, however, is how we value ourselves and how we shape our future with the hopes of not becoming obsolete
in today's healthcare environment!!
Like · Reply · 4 · January 14 at 1:47am
Jill Vargo Cavalet Please explain how you believe that our training is 'so close' to physicians when 24 months does
not compare to 4 years of medical school plus at least 3 yrs in residency.
Like · Reply · 4 · January 14 at 9:15pm
Anh Tran I don't think 24 months is but I think 10 plus years of being on the job may rival or even surpass the 7
years.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 15 at 10:56am
Write a reply...
Ryan Jones Yes please ! Next if we could go back to the name change.
PA= physician associate.
I'm sick of the misleading title that implies I know know how to room people and take vitals
Like · Reply · 9 · January 13 at 11:26am · Edited
Jonathan Hochreiter Has anyone given any thought about fast tracking NPs and PAs that have years of
experience? If I had it all to do over again, I would have gone DO all the way, but I'm 50, and have no wish to go thru
another 4 years of med school and another 3 of residency just to do the same thing I'm doing now as an FNP.
Granted, the additional knowledge would be insightful, just too darn long to get there.
Like · Reply · January 16 at 6:05pm
David Pecora We have proven our worth, contribution, and value to the field of medicine. Now is the perfect time for
us to desire our own "Board". I do not believe the Board of Medicine in each state will fight too much against this goal.
What they will be losing is our licensing fees- which I hope does not become the main reason for Medical Boards to
fight against our goal.
Like · Reply · 2 · January 13 at 5:20pm
Carol Finucan It would make it easier for a PA to work part time or to do casual call work or even volunteer work
without the obstacle of all the paperwork and crazy documents.
Like · Reply · January 16 at 11:57pm
Ron Chelednik You want full practice you should of became a NP. Because it's the only way it will happen. Why?
because your govern under the ANA and not the AMA.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 15 at 8:51am
Karl-Heinz David USA- Demand Universal Health Care Now- Enough is Enough!!
Like · Reply · 4 · January 12 at 7:44pm
Alfred Gartzke Free market will always work better.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 15 at 8:50pm
Write a reply...
Paul C. Norton Yet we ask the rad tech association to guide us on using ionizing radiation rather than physicist and
radiologists...
Like · Reply · January 13 at 11:50pm
Jeannie Steinkirchner Mueller It's about time.... we need this!!! It's a barrier to care not to obtain this!!
Like · Reply · January 15 at 1:42am
David John Bunnell "Low value paperwork". Well phrased.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 12 at 5:41pm
Rick Shelton Get your PhD and get back with me.
Like · Reply · January 16 at 3:58am
Stafford Long Bad idea!
Like · Reply · January 16 at 2:04am
Rob Hoffner We are not as savvy when it comes to advocation as nurses/NPs
Like · Reply · January 16 at 5:52pm
Wadler Fleurina Physician practioners...
Like · Reply · January 15 at 12:19am
American Academy of PAs
January 6 at 4:52pm
·
We need to make an informed decision. Full practice authority and responsibility (FPAR) is a critical issue
facing the profession.
Christine Gardella, MMS, PA-C provides her perspective on FPAR for PAs. AAPA welcomes your thoughtful
and transparent feedback. Please email us at [email protected].
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom So what exactly do we mean by "full practice authority and responsibility " then? Not
needing an attending physician for our work?
Like · Reply · 1 · January 8 at 1:55pm
Hide 42 Replies
American Academy of PAs Please read the FAQ on the policy proposal: http://news-center.aapa.org/fpar/...
Full Practice Authority and Responsibility - AAPA News…
NEWS-CENTER.AAPA.ORG
Like · Reply · 4 · January 9 at 3:30pm · Edited
John Okerblom It doesn't appear any of you have ever supervised a mid-level.
If you had, you would realize very quickly that mid-level providers and their patients derive tremendous benefit from
an experienced, well-trained attending physician.
2 years does not equal 7 to 10 years of medical training, nor was it ever intended to.
My daughter, who is the brightest and most knowledgeable physician's assistant I have ever worked with, will be the
first to agree with this!
Like · Reply · 8 · January 8 at 3:47pm
Jake Almand As a current PA student, I would not claim that PA school = med school. However, that is also not the
argument being presented. NP's and PA'S compete for employment. NP's have independent practice in most states
as well as the VA and that has created a hiring disadvantage for PA's. This is not about about comparing MD vs. PA,
but rather in legally recognizing the current practice of medicine where PA's and NP's everyday are providing care in
collaboration with MD/DO's. This is really about laws representing what PA's have already been doing for years and
maintaining parity with NP's in the job market.
Like · Reply · 13 · January 8 at 8:59pm · Edited
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom The NP education model is completely different than the PA education model. Clinically
they do most of the same things, but the educational process is drastically different and is like comparing apples and
oranges. There's plenty of work for everyone and I really haven't seen much evidence to support the claim that PAs
are having to regularly compete with NPs based on not having practice autonomy. For new laws to pass it would
seem prudent to actually have a large problem with this, and that just doesn't seem to be the case. Otherwise if this is
a concern, one ought to pursue the NP route instead. That's why options exist and I think making all degrees exactly
the same diminishes the healthy differences between them. In my personal opinion, NPs ought to have supervision
just like PAs, not the other way around.
Like · Reply · 3 · January 8 at 9:17pm
Jake Almand Help me understand, you would prefer to wait until the damage is already evident before acting instead
of trying to prevent the damage early? NP's have a distinct advantage for hospitals and the VA because they don't
require a physician to "supervise" them, are you saying their educational process is superior to that of PA's and that
justifies this independence? The nursing boards will never voluntarily revoke this independence, while I agree it's a
little ridiculous that we are in this situation nevertheless we are here. While I am glad you haven't experienced this
personally, I guess in my mind it's pretty obvious that they have an advantage in many job markets.
Like · Reply · 2 · January 8 at 9:45pm
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom I just haven't seen any evidence to suggest that there will be "damage" done in the
future. Not just based on my personal experience, but as a national problem (or potential problem). PAs are only
actually required to be supervised in California on 5% of their cases, so the difference is pretty negligible. I do not
think the NP model is superior, I was only stating that it's different. Their model is based on the nursing model. If I
were to speak from my personal experience I have found attending physicians to express a preference for PAs as our
model is based on the physician educational model (in my program we took many of the same classes, from the
same professors, and did the same clinical rotations as the doctorate students). I feel there may be a place for this
freedom of practice and responsibility law for those who have many years of clinical experience within one particular
specialty (for example, one of my PA mentors had been doing emergency medicine for over 20 years and many
young docs sought him our for consults and 2nd opinions, etc).
Like · Reply · 2 · January 8 at 10:16pm · Edited
Colleen Corbett John Okerblom I agree. I have been a practicing PA for 6.5 years in the ER and I have learned so
much by discussing cases with my attendings. It's required to discuss every patient where I work, and I have learned
a tremendous amount. Would not be where I am today if I just started practicing by myself right out of school. It's a
continuous learning process.
Like · Reply · 4 · January 8 at 10:31pm
Jill Delana Short Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom ....unfortunately, it is a huge problem that is only getting worse by the
day. As a practicing PA for 18 yrs. I wish I could say it wasn't. As someone stated above, I think most PA's would
agree it's a little ridiculous that we are in this situation nevertheless we are here." The VA has recognized NP's and
granted them with full practice authority. PA's will be losing jobs, as NPs will be preferred. Not because they are more
knowledgeable but because they have been granted independent practitioner status and do not require supervision.
Administrators and managers are starting to prefer NP's merely b/c they are independent practitioners and PAs losing
are jobs. This is already occurring. I fully support FPAR for physician assistants as already granted to NP's.
Like · Reply · 6 · January 8 at 10:55pm · Edited
Rutvi Trivedi John Okerblom physician assistant ... no apostrophe;)
Like · Reply · 15 · January 8 at 11:11pm
Paul Savard Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom, I work in an ortho office where our boss hired two NP'S because of their
practice autonomy, not two PA's. That really hurt the 3 PA's in the practice who have worked so hard !
Like · Reply · January 9 at 7:28pm
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom I would really like to see some evidence that PAs nationwide are being pushed out by
NPs. I'm not buying it. The plural of anecdote is not data.
Like · Reply · January 9 at 11:19pm · Edited
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom Rutvi Trivedi the vast majority of the medical world are not caught up in minutia like
adding an "s" or not to "physician." Only PAs care about that.
Like · Reply · January 9 at 11:19pm
Frank Crosby John Okerblom Sir. Please realize the title is not Physician's Assistant.
What do you, as a physician, think full practice authority means? It means I, as a PA am able to use my training and
skills to think for myself. When a situation is beyond my capability, I still go to a more experienced and more highly
trained provider--even with full practice authority (which we have had in the military for years). Do you, Doctor, avoid
consulting more experienced physicians than you? Or consulting when the need arises? That is full practice authority.
Like · Reply · January 10 at 12:17am · Edited
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom Frank Crosby as I mentioned earlier.... literally no one in the medical field besides PAs
care about the "s" at the end of "physician." It's really not worth getting that attached to as it's pretty irrelevant. Being
referral based is bad practice. It raises the cost of health care over all, diminishes continuity of care, and is frankly
already much too over-utilized. And honestly you'd be hard pressed to find a more experienced physician than Dr.
John. He was valedictorian of his med school class at USC and has been practicing for 40 years. He is my attending
physician (which I'm extremely proud of and wouldn't sacrifice for a million bucks) and he knows what he's talking
about!
Like · Reply · January 10 at 12:36am
Meir Dershowitz John Okerblom the term is Physician Assistant, or just PA. Not "mid-level," not "physician's
assistant."
Like · Reply · 3 · January 11 at 12:28am
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom Meir Dershowitz for the third time... no one besides PAs cares about this, because the
rest of the world has more important things to do than stress about semantics.
Like · Reply · January 11 at 12:30am
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom You all have some sense of entitlement to lecture others on how PAs ought to be
addressed when little do you know you're attempting to correct a man who has been supervising PAs since the
1970s, likely long before you were one. Get your priorities straight and have a real discussion instead of focusing on
petty details.
Like · Reply · January 11 at 12:41am
Meir Dershowitz Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom nice that you are sticking up for your father, but words matter very
much.
Like · Reply · January 11 at 7:03am
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom And what does that little "s" change, exactly? Does it make your practice of medicine
better? Does it change the way patients, nurses, or physicians see you? Does it make you feel more secure in your
job description ? Since you're so passionate about that little letter not being in your title perhaps you can enlighten
me?
Like · Reply · January 11 at 11:06am
Sharon Joslin Morgan John Okerblom thank you. I agree with you and would remind my patients of that fact, in the
appropriate situation. Two to three years of cumulative knowledge does not equal the 10 years or longer of the same,
even though the majority of us are dedicated and persistent in finding a diagnosis and advocating for our patients.
And, it's a simple matter of two heads are better than one. ( and please drop the apostrophe s. Thanks
Like · Reply · January 11 at 1:58pm · Edited
)
😉😉
Meir Dershowitz Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom of course it changes "the way patients, nurses or physicians" see us.
For enlightenment, see the AAPA statements on the subject. They recommend using just PA. It is very easy for
people to be mislead into believing our job is to be someone's assistant.
Like · Reply · January 12 at 7:58am
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom I've read the statement. I completely disagree and find statements like that to be a
waste of time. I'd like to see the AAPA put their time into more meaningful contributions to the world of medicine,
rather than fixating on an apostrophe. An obsession with one's title is a sign of insecurity and that's what I'm seeing
here. I am a mid level. That doesn't bother me. Nurses provide foundational care, we provide mid level care, doctors
privide advanced level care. I assist the physician in his practice while simultaneously practicing on my own. That
doesn't bother me and it shouldn't bother you because it is one of the most noble jobs in existence. If it is respect you
seek, I would advise you to enhance your knowledge and practice of medicine, conduct research, and show others
with your actions. No one will respect you more on the basis of you insisting you be addressed a certain way.
Like · Reply · January 12 at 10:19am
Meir Dershowitz Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom uchh "mid level" that's even worse. Your hierarchy, with nurses at the
bottom, reveals a real miscomprehension of the roles of different health care professions. I don't know what
"foundational care," is, but nurses will tell you that they have a professional practice that could not be performed by
doctors. I personally don't "provide mid level care." Glad you are secure in your mid levelness, but you speak for
yourself, not the rest of the PA profession.
Like · Reply · January 12 at 1:49pm
Daniel Raio Meir Dershowitz my father was a physician as you know.... I think the title has grown on people.... in
practicing for about 10 years I have seen the change in understanding from the medical community to the patients. I
don't care what you call me.... but from a marketing and job growth perspective we need to consider FPAR to
maintain a competitive edge. As chief of my department there has been more talk of NP Hiring since passage of the
bill to allow NPs autonomy.... for various business reasons. Including liability and independent practice for cost
effectiveness. I do not expect the okerblums above to understand this as it appears they are in private practice. But
for the majority of us it seems to be a true issue. I do agree that the PA is meant as a team approach to medicine and
if we wanted total control we should have become MDs. That said, we must evolve. Also after 10 years of practice I
would say I have learned as much if not more than a cardio fellow.... as long as the practitioner knows his or her
boundaries.... independence should not be frowned upon.
Like · Reply · 3 · January 12 at 4:28pm
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom So I'm not sure where you got the impression that I'm insulting nurses, but by stating
that nurses are the foundation of medical care is in no way an insult or a downplay. That role is absolutely
fundamental and critical. I never at any point attempted to speak for anyone but myself. I'm sorry if being a mid level
(which is the term we used to describe ourselves for deacdes), gives you a sense of insecurity. To me it just makes
sense. We have more training than nurses, but not as much as doctors. It's the middle, you see. It's not meant to
insult you.
Like · Reply · January 12 at 9:44pm · Edited
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom But I can see practicality has no place here, as emotions on the subject apparently run
too high. No worries. It's worth noting that these things do interfere with subjects that actually matter, however. This
was supposed to be a conversation about practice responsibility, and it was high jacked by those of you offended by
being called a physician's assistant instead of physician assistant. Most people would find that pretty silly and
counterproductive!
Like · Reply · January 12 at 9:48pm · Edited
Daniel Raio Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom Scarlett the only emotions running high appear to be yours... I agree with
your feelings on the name.... see my comment above. But I disagree with what your saying regarding FPAR. I do
think that in order to maintain competitiveness we must stay at the same level as the NP. If not we will lose our
attractiveness to the very MDs that hire us. That's all I'm saying. Other then that one point I actually agree with much
of what ur saying.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 13 at 8:29am
Daniel Raio Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom in order to progress we must change with the times around us.... any good
enterprise does that... it's called sustainable growth.
Like · Reply · January 13 at 8:31am
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom I know it's difficult to assess tone when you can't hear someone's voice or see their
facial expressions, so Facebook is quite easily misunderstood. But I can assure you that there will be very few
MDs/DOs that agree with you on this subject. The argument the AAPA is presenting is that we ought to disregard the
opinions of physicians because "the future of the physician is to be an employee. " My community stands in stark
contrast to this assertion. There are still many physicians that feel they did not spend a decade of their lives in
training to be someone's employee and those physicians actively resist these modern ideas of corporate medicine.
This change is geared at appealing to hospital business administrators, not to physicians. Please show me a doc that
thinks their practice will be better served by hiring mid- levels who do not require supervision.
Like · Reply · January 13 at 11:48pm
Daniel Raio Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom I can name many that do.... in fact.... the nuerology group and endocrinology
group affiliated with my hospital just hired NPs for that exact reason. No matter what the physicians want,
unfortunately, we have already moved to a corporate medical society. Again , as the son of an internist and brother of
s cardiologist, I fully agree with your assessment. However, regardless of our feelings on the subject the times dictate
that we change with them. As stated above. By 2020 the term "private practice" will be virtually extinct. In the end the
only thing FPAR will do is provide more benefit to our patients and institutions as a whole. No PA or NP will be able to
afford the overhead of a practice. Much like most MDs don't. It will still be a team approach with oversight.... only we
will maintain a competitive edge in an already saturated market. why do u think NPs already make 5% more then
PAs? It has already begun. Don't be blinded by your passion and dedication to your MD family. One day they will
retire and you will not have the legal standing to continue to run his practice . Laws are in place to deny us that
aspect of the business.... NPs? Well they are already allowed partnership in most states.... and are moving to a
doctorate degree. Again, I do not agree with this transition.... but feel we must move that direction or we will continue
to drop down the ladder.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 14 at 6:18am
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom Well what you fail to understand is that we are actually a group of over 500 MDs, DOs,
PAs, and NPs that have all joined together across 2 counties to resist exactly what you are speaking of. So no, the
claim that private practice will be extinct by 2020 is absolutely false and you have no evidence to substantiate that
claim and no I will not be left high and dry when my Dad retires because we are a huge group that is well established
and adamantly opposed to corporate medicine because we strongly believe that it is detrimental to the field of
medicine and drives up to cost of health care across the United States. So no, I am not interested in becoming more
like an NP and I still do not support this proposition because patient care will suffer. If the docs you work with don't
want to supervise mid levels they are being lazy. I would not want to have my health care or the health of someone I
love managed by an unsupervised mid level. Perhaps if they are highly experienced in their field it would be different.
Even physicians aren't allowed to practice unsupervised when they graduate med school. Do you honestly think you
are infinitely more skilled than they are? If you do, then I would really take the time to assess your ego here. Do you
truly understand the implications of this proposition? How much do you think you'll need to pay for malpractice
coverage should this pass? I don't know about you, but currently I pay $0 and I'm not interested in that changing.
Give me a number of PAs across America tbat have lost their jobs to NPs thus far. Or are you reacting to a perceived
threat that may be unsubstantiated? Check the arrogance and look at all the unanswered questions before you jump
on the bandwagon.
Like · Reply · January 14 at 4:19pm
Meir Dershowitz Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom yes Dan is more skilled than a new med school graduate, much more,
and probably more skilled than many cardiologists.
Like · Reply · January 14 at 6:37pm
Daniel Raio Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom not sure why you are so upset about this.... I'm merely giving my opinion...
Like · Reply · January 14 at 6:45pm
Daniel Raio Meir Dershowitz how bout Scarlett continue to be a mid level and we ll be the advanced practitioners we
are. And FYI- when their practice gets bought.... she ll realize what we do: and it will be bought one day.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 14 at 6:47pm
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom Sorry, but what gives you the impression I'm upset?
Like · Reply · January 14 at 6:48pm
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom And of course if you've been in your specialty for over 10 years this is something that
may be beneficial, I absolutely agree. No need to insult others here, just because we have different opinions.
Like · Reply · January 14 at 6:51pm · Edited
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom You can call yourself advanced, you can call yourself mid. It doesn't change your
actions or your knowledge, it's only a title.
Like · Reply · January 14 at 6:51pm
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom If you guys would like more information on our health care providor-run model see our
website! The future doesn't have to be the way you think it is, we can change the future of
medicine!http://www.physicianschoicemedicalgroup.com
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Physicians Choice Medical Group is a physician-directed, community-based medical group.…
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Like · Reply · January 14 at 6:55pm · Edited
Daniel Raio Meir Dershowitz Scarlett has problems. Signing off.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 14 at 7:53pm
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom Nice. Way to engage in intelligent debate. Resort to name calling. Real professional.
Bye then!
Like · Reply · January 14 at 9:08pm
Daniel Raio Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom you need help. It's ok I still respect your opinion. Bye Felicia.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 14 at 11:01pm
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom The etiquette of debate dictates that one attacks ideas, not people. Once you result to
personal attacks on your opponent instead of logic you have forfeited. But it's ok, we all seem to be over this convo
anyway. I wish you the best of luck in your endeavors. Right click, unfollow.
Like · Reply · January 15 at 12:06pm · Edited
Write a reply...
Gino Picano This is great. The future of our profession has no limits.
Like · Reply · 4 · January 9 at 11:24am
Gordon Butzirus Want FPA? Then go to med school an be a doctor! I've been a PA for 42 yrs and can hold my own
independently but I'm seeing NPs getting degrees online who sure brainwashed into thinking that they can be
autonomous. I see degeration of medical practice with no peer review. Be careful AAPA what you greed for.
Like · Reply · 11 · January 10 at 10:53pm
Hilary Michna Converse Careful about talking smack about NPs
Like · Reply · January 12 at 12:23am
Greg Stafford I've seen the same behavior that is concerning by Gordon as well. It's not "Talking smack" at all, it's a
legitimate concern and observation!!
Like · Reply · January 12 at 7:43am
Write a reply...
Sarah Balladares As a PA student starting clinicals tomorrow, I know that I'm just beginning to understand the
intricacies of the profession. As a former business owner, it is my dream to open a clinic of my own some day. I
believe that FPAR will help me accomplish that goal in the future.
Like · Reply · 4 · January 8 at 9:03pm
Brian Western The response to NPs gaining unsupervised autonomy is NOT to put more non-physicians into
physician roles. Why doesn't the AAPA actually use what political leverage they have to take a stand and respect the
profession you have had for decades as physician assistants and work to keep nurse practitioners in their appropriate
roles as midlevels in the states that haven't granted them full, unsupervised autonomy yet.
Like · Reply · 4 · January 9 at 1:30am · Edited
Writch Ouyte AMA lost their case to the nursing board. One has no authority over the other.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 10 at 8:34am
Write a reply...
Tunde Koya I hope that AAPA continues to promote FPAR!
It is vital to the advancement of our profession and will only lead to better patient outcomes.
Like · Reply · 4 · January 7 at 8:54pm
John Okerblom Tunde, Look, if you really want full practice authority and responsibility, all you need to do is go to
medical school and do a 3 to 6 year residency afterwards.
Like · Reply · 4 · January 8 at 3:49pm
Tunde Koya While I appreciate your perspective, I respectfully disagree with your assertion.
FPAR has nothing to do with gaining parity with medical doctors. We're losing opportunities to NPs on a national
scale due to their status as independent healthcare providers and while that may not affect you, it's currently affecting
many PAs. The current PA curriculum is rigorous, thorough and equal, if not more intensive, medically than the
curriculum of NPs.
With FPAR, we are still vital members of the medical team and work collaboratively, however today's medicine has
proven that having an MD in a supervisory role is antiquated and at times detrimental to many PAs and their patients.
We don't need our hands held to deliver quality patient care. If and when a consult is necessary, we will seek one.
All that being said, I fully support FPAR and look forward to the day we advance as a profession.
Like · Reply · 7 · January 9 at 4:19am · Edited
John Okerblom There is no question Tunde that the credentials required for acceptance into PA school and the
rigorous nature of those two years meet or exceed even those for a medical school applicant.
Perhaps two years of formal post graduate clinical training would allow a PA to function independently.
Like · Reply · 2 · January 8 at 5:15pm
Jake Almand I actually believe many PA's would agree with you, however the issue is that NP's are already being
granted independent status and their education is arguably less intensive than PA school. So, to add an additional 2
years post-grad to PA school is still a burden when it comes to maintaining parity with NP's.
Like · Reply · 5 · January 9 at 3:51pm · Edited
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom So this law is based on the premise that PAs are feeling threatened by NPs? I really
don't see much evidence to support the claim that there is a big problem of competition between the two.
Like · Reply · 2 · January 8 at 9:24pm
Jill Delana Short John Okerblom .......PA school is more competitive to get accepted into than NP programs and the
curriculum is more rigorous than nursing school/ programs. In PA school, I had a semester of gross anatomy in
cadaver lab. Most PA's now have graduate degrees, as the programs have changed from bacholars to master
programs. PA's are required to sit for re-certification exams (our national boards) . I have taken the test (certifying
national boards) 4 times throughout my 18 year career. This is required for MD's and PA's to prove maintained level
of competence. (as it has been suggested knowledge decreases with time and to make sure we are current with
recommendations). Yet, NP's only sit for the initial boards (ONCE) and never have to take a second re-certification
exam. We are required to have 100 CME hours every 2 years......their CME requirements are a fraction of that. As
stated above, we are losing opportunities to NPs on a national scale due to their status as independent healthcare
provider , and our training is more rigorous and we are as knowledgeable if not more knowledgeable in my opinion. I
support FULL PRACTICE AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITY, as this has already been granted to nurse
practioners!
Like · Reply · 10 · January 8 at 9:25pm
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom Jill Delana Short he knows that, which is why he prefers to hire PAs. When he has hired
NPs, he requires them to be supervised. Mid levels ought to have a physician on their team until they have a good 10
years or more within their specialty.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 9 at 11:35pm
Write a reply...
Daniel Raio Unfortunately I have to agree with FPAR. I don't think advanced practitioners should open their own
clinics.... but bc of the NP issue we must do so to compete.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 10 at 10:35pm
Jaime Aubel It sounds great, and I do know of PAs who are lucrative business owners in NYS....however I haven't
looked into or researched this, I am more asking the question - why are you referring to the physician as
collaborating, as an NP would, rather than supervising, as is traditional with PAs? Mind you I practice in NY so I'm not
sure what may have changed around the country....
Like · Reply · January 8 at 11:13pm
Bryan Stephens Full Practice Authority for PAs will be quite the undertaking. NP's were able to get full autonomy
due to having such large numbers and legislative influence. When you consider the sheer numbers, there are
222,000 nurse practitioners, and 3.1 million RNs actively licensed in the US in comparison to 102,000 PAs (2014
census). Factor in how many new NP programs are popping up - their numbers are going to increase at a much
higher rate than PAs which will only add to their influence. So if PAs really want to move towards FPAR - it is going to
require a great deal of $$$$. That money will have to come from all of us. The small number of PA's donating $50200 per cycle is not going to cut it. It is going to take each PA donating 1-2k to really make an impact. I am supportive
of the proposal. I just hope everyone that is in favor realizes that it will take a great deal of work and money to make it
possible. Just my 2 cents.
Like · Reply · 3 · January 11 at 1:52am
Kelle Holgorsen I am a PA/ practice owner in NC and am beyond thrilled at the possibility! I don't believe this is
about changing the way we practice or see patients at all-- I will ALWAYS believe in knowing your scope of practice
and using a team approach when needed. That is medicine at its finest at ANY level. This is about reimbursement,
finding a supervising physician,
malpractice coverage, the competing market with NPs....and all of the other red tape that we have endured. Please -let's keep the conversation going!
Like · Reply · January 9 at 10:00pm
Kimmy Stegmayer I am also a PA in NC. Where and what is your practice?
Like · Reply · January 10 at 10:53pm
Write a reply...
Sharon Joslin Morgan I think we can all agree that the title for the profession, decided decades ago, is awkward and
confusing for professionals , patients and the general public alike. Of course there more concerning issues , but at
least let's try to enforce the correct naming of our profession while we are stuck with that designation
Like · Reply · 1 · January 11 at 2:02pm
Paul Matera Sure why not NPs snuck in there , foot in door then ram it open
Like · Reply · January 11 at 5:14am
Writch Ouyte 100% Medicare reimbursement would be my first priority
Like · Reply · 1 · January 10 at 8:31am
David Mittman Awesome!!
Like · Reply · 2 · January 8 at 5:01pm
Arezou Mansourian Love it!!!
Like · Reply · January 9 at 11:06am
David Mittman Great job!
Like · Reply · January 10 at 9:33pm
nice bait and switch ... good luck
👍👍
American Academy of PAs
January 2 at 10:11am ·
Dan Otero - PA Full Practice Authority and Responsibility is a critical issue. In AAPA's new video
series, PAs from across the nation provide their perspective on the importance of full practice
authority and its impact on the profession. AAPA welcomes your thoughtful and transparent
feedback. Please email us at [email protected].
A PA Perspective on Full Practice Authority and Responsibility video series:http://bit.ly/FPARseries
Mike Marley Things have changed since the first class graduated in the 60's. It took me 7 years of schooling and
over $200k to become a PA. Unfortunately, we have been backed into a corner by NPs who on average have far less
didactic and clinical training. Once they pushed for clinical independence and their "nursing doctorate" we have seen
their numbers grow at a faster rate than PAs.
Hospitals and administrators will now see NPs as independent practitioners with no need for a supervising physician
and therefore function essentially as cheaper physicians. By not persuing FPAR we risk fading into obsolescence as
we will not be seen as being cost effective because we have the need for a supervising physician.
PA school has changed dramatically in the 50 years the profession has been around. I took all the pre med courses
in undergrad and took many of the same courses as the med students in graduate school. I rotatated through 3 of the
top hospitals in the entire country and worked directly along side 4th year medical students.Enterance into PA school
has now become more competitive than that of medical school. We must stop following the coat tails of the NPs and
pave a way forward for the future of our profession. For decades we have demonstrated our clinical competence by
having stringent CME requirements and similar recertification standards to that of physicians, neither of which current
NPs are held to. If having independent practice requires a year long residency in our field, so be it, The profession
must adapt to survive.
Like · Reply · 29 · January 5 at 8:51pm · Edited
Melvin Oxendine Agree!
Like · Reply · January 6 at 3:52am
Alicia Marie Well stated!
Like · Reply · January 6 at 10:19am
Lynette A. White Well said!
Like · Reply · January 6 at 1:36pm
Tory Christian Sherman Well said!
Like · Reply · January 6 at 3:20pm
Write a reply...
Dale Thomas McKinney For those that do not want this, but understand that nurse practitioners already have it, are
you saying that we are not as valuable or effective clinicians as NPs?
Like · Reply · 6 · January 4 at 5:39pm
Dale Thomas McKinney Je Dzo and that can't change? If we don't change somewhat, we will be obsolete. The NPs
have certainly changed.
Like · Reply · 3 · January 4 at 6:01pm
Lisa Wheeler NP's started this way (defined as rogue back in the day). The fact they they went this route made PA's
more intriguing and less threatening to MD's and medical boards. I am in NC and we have it great! I have been a PA
for a LONG time. I have the 2 voices yelling at me. 1) yay! Everyone else is going the doctoral route and pushing
independence and practice authority why not us get the respect...and then 2) if I wanted to be an independent I would
have gone to Med school. I knew what I was signing up for when I went to PA school.
I enjoy my collaborative arrangement. I am not threatened by others.
It's not going to change that I am a PA and NOT on equal academic level or title with an MD--and on any given day
that does piss me off. But I knew my status when I became a PA.
However, I am open to more thoughtful dialogue 100% PA oriented and not comparing me to an NP.
Just my 2 cents.
Like · Reply · 7 · January 4 at 7:58pm · Edited
Dale Thomas McKinney Je Dzo talk to Janelle Olson and others that are living this EVERY day.
Like · Reply · January 4 at 10:40pm
Dale Thomas McKinney Lisa Wheeler I agree with most everything you said. I am not a "midlevel" or an "APP" or a
"NPP". I am a PA. There is no comparison with me and an NP. And when someone does make the comparison, my
education and clinical experience wins every time! That being said, administrators DO compare us. And even though
I am a PA and they are nurses, their independence and doctorette (spelled that way on purpose) make administrators
look more favorably. We need to do what we can to advance our profession, to change how administrators look at us.
My 2 cents...
Like · Reply · 7 · January 4 at 10:50pm
Dale Thomas McKinney Je Dzo the intent of the PA...in 1966? Has the profession not changed since 1966? Just to
say that the PA profession wasn't started with independence of some sort in mind is a horrible argument.
Like · Reply · January 4 at 10:53pm
Dale Thomas McKinney Je Dzo I haven't explained my position.
Like · Reply · January 5 at 8:23am
Mike Marley Things have changed since the first class graduated in the 60's. It took me 7 years of schooling and
over $200k to become a PA. We have been backed into a corner by NPs with far less training. Once they pushed for
clinical independence we have seen their numbers grow at a much faster rate than PAs. Hospitals will see NPs as
independent practitioners that have no need for a supervising physician and therefore are essentially cheaper
physicians. We risk fading into obsolescence by not pursuing FPAR as we will not be seen as being cost effective,
because we have the need for a supervising physician. PA school has changed in the 50 years the profession has
been around, i took all the pre med courses in undergrad and took many of the same courses as the med students in
graduate school. We must stop following the coat tails of the NPs and pave a way forward for the future of our
profession. If that independent practice requires a year long residency in our field, so be it. The profession must adapt
to survive.
Like · Reply · 2 · January 5 at 1:35pm · Edited
Lynette A. White Je Dzo The system has changed this and we need to adapt.
Like · Reply · January 6 at 1:38pm
Dale Thomas McKinney Je Dzo happen to see the article "Major PA victory in Michigan"?
Like · Reply · January 7 at 11:15pm
Write a reply...
Joseph Yonke Definitely about time. Our profession will degrade without more professional ownership and less red
tape. It is happening and with the flux of NPs. I know too many PAs these days who are much less happy with their
choice over several years ago and would have gone to medical school had they ever known they'd be so restricted,
misunderstood, and dealing with such competition for jobs. In my area NPs have major control over primary care jobs
with few exceptions and this is what I was trained to do so well! Some cite our bureaucratic restrictions as reasons,
as well as lack of players in high level positions advocating PAs. As long as nurses run hospitals who will likely make
strides? We need full scope and more platforms for growth for sustainability into the future!
Like · Reply · 4 · January 5 at 6:22pm
Scott Benton In Nevada, the NPs can not practice independently until they have practiced under the supervision of
an MD for 2 years and that MD has agreed that there is competency in that NP and they send it to both the Board of
Medical Examiners and the Board of Nursing. While I am in full support of this, I would say there needs to be some
sort of period that the PA's work under an MD them can be granted their FPAR
Like · Reply · 2 · January 5 at 9:34pm
Chris Caissie I definitely agree with this initiative, but as a student entering didactic year in two weeks I wonder if this
will push PAs to participate in "residency" programs. I still believe PAs need some sort of "contact physician" would
be helpful, especially for new grads. Definitely necessary movement foreword but details should be considered.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 5 at 2:36pm
Dale Thomas McKinney I am not a "midlevel" or an "APP" or a "NPP". I am a PA. There is no comparison with me
and an NP. And when someone does make the comparison, my education and clinical experience wins every time!
That being said, administrators DO compare us. And even though I am a PA and they are nurses, their independence
and doctorette (spelled that way on purpose) make administrators look more favorably. We need to do what we can
to advance our profession, to change how administrators look at us. My 2 cents...
Like · Reply · January 7 at 11:18pm
Tory Christian Sherman I am hoping this moves forward. I work in an area where no one even knows what a PA is.
Jobs are posted for nurse practitioners and not PAs and I have had hospitals and physician's office tell me they have
never hired a PA and need me explain and send them our laws and statutes. It's infuriating and disappointing for this
to happen. I worked hard to become a PA and by no means are PAs inferior to nurse practitioners.
Like · Reply · January 6 at 3:29pm
Jonathan Baird As PAs we already have "Full Practice Authority." However, there are laws which do not "Fully"
recognize that authority. The terminology which will BEST embody what PAs seek for for-while still maintaining the
strong relationship we should have with our physician colleagues-is "Functional Autonomy." Functional Autonomy
should guide legislatures as they craft law to improve access to care for their constituencies. Let PAs practice
alongside our physician colleagues, and we-together-will craft delegation of services agreements, that best meet the
needs of the patients we serve. The safeguards for patients are already in place through certifying bodies and
medical licensing boards. If this discussion about "Full Practice Authority" is merely about unburdening our physician
colleagues, then change the terminology to Functional Autonomy, and we will better communicate the idea. If this
discussion is about PAs who want to "hang their own shingle," then may I suggest those PAs went into the wrong
profession. However, even if they want to "hang their own shingle" their is still a pathway in most states for that to
happen.
Like · Reply · January 12 at 4:42pm
Richard Kraus I believe the Physician/PA model is an asset to our medical system. How can we implement this
while also strengthening our connection with Physicians? Is there any interest in the AAPA discussing this with the
AMA or other national physician organizations?
Like · Reply · January 5 at 10:45pm
Bea Balsamo this should have happened years ago, and was blocked in NM by PAs!!
Like · Reply · 5 · January 2 at 9:06pm
Jeff Hinshaw Great job Dan! Proud to say we were classmates in the Bowman Gray SOM PA class of '92
Like · Reply · 2 · January 4 at 6:47pm
Troy Davis Thanks for listening to your constituency AAPA. Way to go!!
Like · Reply · 2 · January 4 at 7:29pm
👍👍
Marc Beverly I'm all in. You have the support of New Mexico Medical.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 5 at 7:41am
Linda Jacobus Baldwin Needs to be done or we will lose our jobs to nps in Arizona it's already happening
Like · Reply · 1 · January 5 at 11:29pm
Alicia Marie It's already happening in Missouri as well!
Like · Reply · January 6 at 10:22am
Write a reply...
Nichole Bateman Satterwhite It's time, long overdue!
Like · Reply · 5 · January 4 at 6:44pm
Robert Segarra Totally in support of this concept!!!!
Like · Reply · 4 · January 4 at 2:22pm
Todd Kreykes Won't this raise liability insurance? Solo practice PAs who practice in rural areas that have off site
physician "supervision" such as myself and over 200 PAs in Michigan pay these doctors a nominal fee to do so.
Removing this requirement is good if the insurance goes up in my opinion.
Like · Reply · January 4 at 5:17pm
Susan Troxell See Way overdue!!!!
Like · Reply · 3 · January 4 at 5:42pm
Larry Duane Jowers Needs to be done, we should control our future! Not some administrator!
Like · Reply · January 5 at 8:31pm
Andrea McGuire Long overdue
Like · Reply · January 5 at 2:12pm
Aleta Vandiver Fox This is way, way overdue!
Like · Reply · January 5 at 5:37pm
Dale Thomas McKinney Google "Major PA Victory in Michigan".
Like · Reply · January 7 at 11:19pm
Nelofar Barlas Long overdue!
Like · Reply · January 5 at 8:28pm
Maegen Kennedy Long overdue!!!!
Like · Reply · January 5 at 2:02pm
Bonita Baldwin I'm hesitant
Like · Reply · January 5 at 8:10pm
Olena Hays By
Like · Reply · January 5 at 9:29am
American Academy of PAs
December 26, 2016 ·
PA Bianca Belcher, MPH, PA-C explains "Full Practice Authority and Responsibility" (FPAR) for PAs
and gives her perspective.
Kelly Murray It is about time. I agree totally with this proposal. Our training is more extensive then most NP
programs, and yet NPs as a whole have more autonomy due to a very strong political advocasy body supporting their
practice, i.e. the nursing association/board. As stated medicine is a team sport and when consultation is needed it
can always be requested.
Like · Reply · 23 · December 26, 2016 at 10:24am
Villy Aapa Here's a breakdown on how much more the APRNs donate to their Political Action Committee (PAC)
verses PAs' donations to AAPA's PA PAC:
AANP received $424,723 in donations from its members as of October 2016.
AAPA received $95,984 in donations from its members as of September 2016.
Only members or employers of the nonprofit PAC are allowed to donate to the PAC.
AAPA members can go here to donate to the only PA PAC in the
nation: https://www.aapa.org/threeColumnLanding.aspx?id=302
Like · Reply · 1 · December 26, 2016 at 7:40pm · Edited
Eric Wurtz Would probably get more donations if the NCCPA wasn't gouging everyone for testing and licensing that
we already paid for every 2 years..
Like · Reply · 4 · December 30, 2016 at 10:44am
Write a reply...
Tunde Koya This is an AMAZING initiative. On behalf of all Florida PAs, I firmly stand behind this movement and
look forward to supporting in anyway necessary.
Like · Reply · 7 · December 26, 2016 at 9:26am
Tunde Koya We would still work with physicians within a multi-disciplinary medical team but we would have more
control and power of our profession. We would govern ourselves as one PA entity, be able to be directly reimbursed
by private and public health insurances and wouldn't have to necessarily report to MDs in a supervisory role.
Essentially, we would have greater autonomy, consult healthcare providers when necessary and provide service to
patients more efficiently.
It removes all of the red tape and obstacles that we often run into currently.
Like · Reply · 3 · December 26, 2016 at 12:29pm
Write a reply...
Jill Vargo Cavalet "The requirement for us to have a specific relationship with a physician in order to practice is a bit
antiquated."
Weren't we born from the notion that we are trained faster and without as much depth as physicians because we then
practice with supervision? I don't disagree with the rationale of this proposal in the current healthcare arena, but what
are the recommendations for new graduates?
Realize that there are many certified PAs who are early twenty-somethings with no healthcare experience except
shadowing. I was one of them (in fact, I was a 22 year-old with a bachelors) and would never agree that anyone is
prepared to practice independently without several years of experience within the same specialty, among other
criteria.
I trust the survey will be sent to non-AAPA members as well? It will be interesting to see how this develops, and I
hope AAPA doesn't continue to distance itself from the other 3 PA organizations in ongoing critical issues regarding
our profession.
Like · Reply · 4 · December 29, 2016 at 6:07pm · Edited
Stephen Gardner The survey will go to non members as well as AAPA members, at least those that we have email
addresses for.
Like · Reply · December 30, 2016 at 9:33am
Write a reply...
Angela Schmieder Thank you. Agree. Work in Illinois. Iowa is having some issues as more regulations are being
proposed by physician board. Np has independence in Iowa. We need this asap to continue to grow are profession
and provide much needed access to the public
Like · Reply · 2 · December 26, 2016 at 11:42am
Brian Tessio Collins Can anyone point me to any data or statistics compiled regarding the need for change? All I
can find within the statement of the task force is that they feel it is time. I'm sorry if anyone has been passed up for a
job because of the physician oversigh...See More
Like · Reply · 1 · January 1 at 6:51am · Edited
1 Reply
Madeleine Oranges Redding I completely agree with this proposal as well. I recently moved to HI and have been
looking for a job since the summer with only 1 interview. The whole state is behind the mainland re using midlevels,
but even if I find a job they prefer NPs or APRNs vs PAs due to the physician supervision!!!
Like · Reply · 1 · December 29, 2016 at 5:22pm
Patty Hagan Crowley As an ER nurse I hate to disagree with some of this but must. I've worked with very good PA's
and some who didn't know what they were doing. I'm not familiar with how much education that you get but I've
taught many in the ER some never even put an IV in before. That said I've had Nurses with BSN schooling and never
put a cath or IV in. Maybe if you are working in a specific field and have the experience behind you yes by all means.
Are you saying that if seen by you you should make the same as doctor's salary??
Like · Reply · December 31, 2016 at 12:24pm
Jeff Kellogg Bring it on!! Why on earth would any profession let another control it?? Time to control our own destiny!
Like · Reply · 4 · December 26, 2016 at 8:53pm
Nate Marsden This is great! This is the only way to ensure the future of our career and to be sure we aren't pushed
out by NPs.
Like · Reply · 2 · December 26, 2016 at 5:48pm
Eric Wurtz Considering their training is inferior, it's crazy they are independent. I have to train NPs all the time
because they don't know what they are doing. The governing bodies need to go back and remove some of there
authorities in my opinion
Like · Reply · December 30, 2016 at 10:47am
Eric Wurtz Considering their training is inferior, it's crazy they are independent. I have to train NPs all the time
because they don't know what they are doing. The governing bodies need to go back and remove some of there
authorities in my opinion
Like · Reply · December 30, 2016 at 10:47am
Write a reply...
Michael Clark Well done and I think this initiative is timely as well as critical for our profession. I'm in! Let's do it!
Like · Reply · 1 · December 26, 2016 at 5:22pm
👍👍
Jeremy Lamb I think I agree with the final two initiatives, and I can't quite articulate my feelings on the first, but I am
very skeptical regarding the second.
"Seeking the elimination of any laws or regulations that link a PA's ability to practice with a supervising or
collaborating physician."
Why? Simply for the sake of being independent? Just because NPs can be independent and autonomous? I
personally EMBRACE the fact that PAs have to have defined relationships with one or multiple physicians. I would
never WANT to be a completely independent provider. That's one of the major reasons I pursued being a PA to begin
with (as opposed to a physician). It troubles me that I can sense a growing desire among the PA profession
nationwide to, essentially, remove as many distinctions as possible between PAs and physicians. Fundamentally we
are NOT physicians, and I absolutely enjoy that fact.
Like · Reply · 1 · December 31, 2016 at 4:49pm · Edited
Jeremy Lamb And I want to be very clear that I am not attempting to be condescending or argumentative. I am
interested in discussing WHY people feel this way in order to improve or clarify my feelings and thoughts regarding
my chosen profession.
Like · Reply · 1 · December 31, 2016 at 4:52pm
Write a reply...
Brandon McMullen Great news! Now on paper we will be doing what we have been doing in practice for years!
Like · Reply · 1 · December 29, 2016 at 8:51pm
Lori Glassie I fully support this idea! It would be fantastic if this would happen.
Like · Reply · December 29, 2016 at 11:56pm
Seth Vaughn Got passed over for a job for an NP due to consign requirement, we need this ASAP!
Like · Reply · December 30, 2016 at 11:19am
Ave Chuprevich Wow! Well done Bianca!
Like · Reply · 1 · December 26, 2016 at 5:17pm
Kristi Lynne Barr Definitely agree!
Like · Reply · 1 · December 26, 2016 at 2:39pm
Hannah Lane Waggett Agreed! We need to keep up with the changing times!
Like · Reply · December 26, 2016 at 3:53pm
Brandon Holsey Are they planning do do a DPA program similar to the DNP?
Like · Reply · December 26, 2016 at 11:00pm
Barry Brownstein Well done and extremely logical.
Like · Reply · December 26, 2016 at 9:50pm
Terry Chic-Faleye Totally agree, it is time!
Like · Reply · January 2 at 12:42pm
Curt Campbell Strong commentary, agree totally
Like · Reply · December 26, 2016 at 1:36pm
Kenneth Granados Absolutely!
Like · Reply · December 26, 2016 at 1:22pm
Salvador Maita Hi, I agree totally with this proposal
Like · Reply · December 30, 2016 at 7:35pm
Jamie Kemp Yes!
Like · Reply · December 26, 2016 at 10:48am
American Academy of PAs
January 17 at 4:26pm
·
“We have to practice to our full training and education.” - Gina Venditti, MS, PA-C
Gina Venditti, MS, PA-C provides her perspective on full practice authority and responsibility (FPAR). AAPA
welcomes your thoughtful and transparent feedback. Please email us at [email protected].
Anthony Kemper Biggest problem I've seen for the past 24 going on 25 years of practice is our national and local
organizations cannot hold a candle to ANA or the various NP organizations in lobbying power. Heck I still am asked
what is a PA?
Like · Reply · 5 · January 19 at 6:35pm
Troy Prevot Great point
Like · Reply · January 20 at 8:36pm
Anthony Kemper Oh and by no means am I advocating full practice authority. I knew exactly what I was getting into
and I am fine with my place, I know my limitations which are few after 24+ years but I still welcome the collaboration
with my SP. We as a profession need to reign in NP's and educate the public and Physicians what we can and
cannot do and what our training is. With the NP profession going to a Doctorate program that will soon be slapped in
our face that they are more educated than us which by no means makes them better practitioners. There is nothing
wrong with NP's they just are trained from a completely different perspective.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 20 at 8:42pm
Write a reply...
Jonathan Baird PAs already have "Full Practice Authority." What our laws need to reflect is what PAs really need
"Functional Autonomy." Every PA wants to be able to practice to their full extent, without cumbersome legal and
administrative requirements that burden both the PA, as well as the supervising physician, and do not improve patient
care.
Like · Reply · 6 · January 19 at 9:48pm
Jeremy Shapiro It's this simple:
Either NPs & PAs should be able to have full autonomy or neither. Otherwise, it would suggest that one is better than
the other. And considering NP schools are now online, they have more seats to fill than students applying, and PA
schools have less than 10% acceptance rates, the data would suggest that if there is any difference in the potential
abilities, it should be the other way around. This would be similar to if DOs only had to go through 2.5 years of
medical school but demanded greater privileges than MDs
Like · Reply · 6 · January 21 at 5:35pm · Edited
Terri Goodman Jordan That is the exactly point! DOs share the same responsibility and yet the same can't be said
about PAs/NPs. We need better lobbyists and our national organizations need to fight harder. I currently have "Full
Practice Authority", but I agree with Jonathan Baird, we need "Functional Autonomy".
Like · Reply · January 23 at 7:32am
John Philip Festa Yes! In fact the acceptance rate to PA school nationaly is 6.4℅! (per latest PAEA Survey 2015)
Like · Reply · 1 · January 23 at 1:08pm
Write a reply...
Shawn Parcells I am not a PA-C. I am a PA (Pathologist Assistant), a neuroanatomist/physiologist and teach nurses,
future PAs and pre-med students along with DPT students. I am also in my fellowship as a infectious disease
epidemiologist and future Doctor of Public Health.
What upsets me about the lack of full autonomy for PAs is you guys have just as much training as NPs and doctors.
Sure, doctors will always be the top but by limiting your scope we are hurting patients. As a pathologist assistant and
Epidemiology fellow, there are certain things I can do that PAs cannot. Why? You guys have more clinical training
and access to patients then we do. So why are we continuing to keep PA-C out of the picture? It isn't fair at all. If we
really want to change our healthcare system, patients need access to other providers and PA-C are ones that are
fully competent to provide the full care these patients need.
Like · Reply · 2 · January 21 at 6:53pm · Edited
Lisa Casteigne Alleman Sorry both NPs and PAs need collaborating physicians. Not direct supervision but
collaborating physicians. Neither of us should be hanging out a shingle and practicing medicine alone!
I embrace the partnership with my doctor. He has invested a lot of his professional time training me. I have worked
very hard studying and learning my speciality.
My SP understands that in medicine we need providers who provide quality and value.
The only way you will attain that is to be trained to your maximum potential. This does not happen the day you
graduate or get the C behind your PA or NP letter.
It takes critiquing and feedback on how you practice to develop your skills.
I have grown over the years
That's why I am able to handle easy to more complex cases that come in our rheumatology practice.
I have full autonomy and see a full patient load yet I know if I have a question or need help on a highly complex case I
can pick up the phone or walk down the hall.
I would never want it any other way!
Like · Reply · 1 · January 22 at 2:45pm
Melvin Oxendine I think you're missing the point. It isn't to suggest that we abandon the collaboration of PAs and
MDs but rather do away with certain limitations that hold us back as a profession. Change is coming regardless...just
depends on what type and how much will affect our profession.
Like · Reply · January 24 at 12:53pm
Write a reply...
Daniel McDonald What is the precise definition of full practice authority? Been hearing this pissing contest between
PA and np since PA school. Graduated 2001. Nothing changed. PA and NP still in demand, although they seem to
work in different subspecialties. Not as many NP in the OR or ER, many more NP in peds, an an example. The NP
and PA contest continues. But forget that. Again what is "full practice authority"?!? As defined by? As measured by?!
Like · Reply · January 21 at 6:15pm
Ron Chelednik Don't agree. PA's know exactly what they sign up for when they decide to go into health care and get
the education. The very definition of a PA is a Physicians 'Assistant.' Am I missing something?
For a PA desire the freedoms that nearly half the states afford NP's and now the VA and growing throughout the US
for yourself, you should of became a Nurse Practitioner.
The AMA and its members will never let go it's ruling power. Good thing NP's are governed under the ANA.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 19 at 3:16am
Hide 13 Replies
Mike Marley First, its Physician Assistant, not Physician's Assistant, both of which no longer represent our profession
thus the push for a name change. Secondly, we are trained to a much greater extent than NPs who on average only
have 500 to 600 hours of clinicals compared to the average of 2000 for a PA student. We are trained in the medical
model, with particular emphasis on the pathophysiology of each diesease. We couldn't take online/part time PA
school like many of the NP schools because we had 26 credits a semester and 3 tests a week. Compare this to the
nursing model of NPs who rely on specific protocols for identification and treatment. I became a PA because I
understood our training was better and I wanted a deeper understanding of medicine. The only reason NPs have
gotten independence in the VA is not because they are trained better but rather their enormous nursing lobby behind
them that not even the AMA can match. I spent over 7 years in school for this, I won't be told I should have been an
NP.
Like · Reply · 23 · January 19 at 10:17am · Edited
Chris Ricketts I think it's wrong for NP's to have "full practice authority". Everyone is in such a hurry to deregulate in
this country that we lose many protections. Medicine is a team sport and I like the collaboration I have with my M.D.'s
and D.O.'s. Just because NP's have something they shouldn't have doesn't mean we should have it too. While I
agree with Ron's conclusion, it's for different reasons and I feel he was a bit derogatory toward our profession. Mike,
thank you for pointing out the fine training we receive but I disagree with advancing "full practice authority".
Like · Reply · 3 · January 19 at 10:46am · Edited
Mike Marley We've been backed into a corner by the NPs and now we have no choice. It was never the intention of
our profession to have full practice authority but neither was it for that of NPs. PAs will cease to be cost effective and
relevant if NPs have full practice authority and we don't. Already they are hiring NPs more than PAs because they
arent tied down by physician supervision requirments, thus it is cheaper for the hospital to hire an NP. This comes
down to the economics of medicine and if we don't keep par with NPs our profession will not exist in 20 years.
Like · Reply · 7 · January 19 at 10:56am
Susan Klein I was actually told by an HR person that they would not hire me if I required a SP! To do disability
exams for the VA. PA grad 1982, veteran. So it's real. Became a moot point cuz I fractured my pelvis just after, and
they are a good company. They did hire me in the end. And I have 2 Bachelors but no Masters. A bit worried if that
too will play into this.
Like · Reply · 3 · January 19 at 1:03pm
Brian Western Mike can you please explain what '7 years of school for this' means? Secondarily, do you honestly
believe that having a new PA graduate with fullly unsupervised practice is at all safe for patients?
Like · Reply · 1 · January 19 at 5:54pm
Mike Marley Brian Western Sure, i spent 4 years studying biology and pre medicine and 3 years in PA school.
Although those years were the credit equivalent of 4 full years of school (116 ) Secondly, no i do not believe new
graduates should be able to practice unsupervised that is ludicrous and missing the point of this argument. PA
programs by their design are primary care programs thus a new grad is much more able to practice in primary care
without supervision than he/she is in Emergency medicine or Neurosurgery. The only logical choice the profession
has is regrettably to move in the direction of 12 to 18 month residencies for certain specialties after that they can take
their CAQ test in that specialty and be awarded FPAR in that specialty. This is not the ideal situation as the PA
profession was created as a generalist profession. Unfortunately times have changed and we are left with little
choice. NPs are now presenting themselves as more cost effective providers to hospital administrators as it will cut
the bottom line. PAs of different specialties will have different views, obviously as an Emergency med PA I feel this is
necessary while surgical PAs might not even notice a change because they are obviously not going to be surgeons.
Like · Reply · 4 · January 19 at 10:03pm · Edited
Joe Justice Susan Klein did you apply through USAJOBS.GOV? considering there are 100s of open jobs, I'm sure
they could have found a slot for you
USAJOBS - The Federal Government's official employment…
USAJOBS.GOV
Like · Reply · January 20 at 7:37am
Ashley Kra Brian Western do you think having a new grad NP with fully unsupervised practice is at all safe for
patients?
Like · Reply · 1 · January 20 at 10:33pm
Brian Western Ashley Kra absolutely not
Like · Reply · 2 · January 20 at 11:05pm
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom Disagree, I'm in family med and as a new grad would not feel comfortable being
unsupervised for the safety of my patients. 2 years is not enough time to learn medicine. Doctors aren't allowed to
practice unsupervised after twice the amount of schooling we have. Not reasonable to expect we should get more
authority with less education.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 20 at 11:18pm · Edited
John Okerblom Mike Marley I have given up trying to train nurse practitioners as, generally, they simply don't have
the basic science knowledge, intellectual capacity, or depth of training that modern Physician Assistant graduates
have.
The difficulty in gaining ac...See More
Like · Reply · 2 · January 20 at 11:25pm
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom Another option would be to institute more bridge programs for PAs to pursue a doctorate
should they choose. I'd like to call your attention to the BLS projection of job growth over the next decade. Note that
30% growth is predicted, making your assertion that we'll all soon be out of jobs grossly
unfounded: https://www.bls.gov/.../mobile/physician-assistants.htm
Physician Assistants : Occupational Outlook Handbook : U.S. Bureau of…
BLS.GOV
Like · Reply · January 20 at 11:34pm · Edited
Melvin Oxendine are you a troll?
Like · Reply · January 24 at 12:57pm
Write a reply...
Stephanie Eberhardy Agree 100^% in Wisconsin working on this issue- I serve the underserved in Indian health/
scares me to think of what could be instead of what should be
Like · Reply · January 19 at 11:06pm
Joan Rueter Carapucci Awesome job Gina. This is a major obstacle for all of us. Thank you!
Like · Reply · 1 · January 18 at 1:08pm
Bobby White While I agree with the premise of full practice authority, I have not had an issue over my 16 year career
in regard to how I practice.
I would really like the AAPA to focus MORE on the recertification board exam issue! This, to me, is more of an issue
regarding my ability to practice.
Like · Reply · 1 · January 23 at 1:02pm
Irehs Arierref How can I become PA but in holistic health or Functional medicines r Naturopath ?
Like · Reply · January 24 at 2:50am
Thatsme Moore I see huge variances in salaries reported to AAPA and salaries of PA-Cs.
Like · Reply · January 22 at 4:58pm
1 Reply
Susanna Prima It is about time.
Like · Reply · 2 · January 17 at 9:59pm
Shelly Saunders Gallini Great job Gina!
Like · Reply · 1 · January 18 at 8:11pm
Linda Jacobus Baldwin I agree wholeheartedly
Like · Reply · 1 · January 18 at 12:28pm
Jon Colbert Very nice job!
Like · Reply · 1 · January 18 at 3:01pm
Tracy Ray Agree totlly
Like · Reply · January 20 at 9:18am
Scarlett Kathryn Okerblom Disagree, totally.
Like · Reply · January 20 at 11:07pm
Jesse Garcia We need to come together folks.. we need autonomy!!!
Like · Reply · January 22 at 1:22am
American Academy of PAs
December 23, 2016 ·
PA Adam Musgrave, PA-C provides his perspective on "Full Practice Authority and Responsibility"
(FPAR) for PAs
Angela Schmieder I totally agree. We are already doing it- just need to make it in the books as well. Secondly, I too,
feel that nurse practitioners are being more sought after soley due to lack of supervision requirements
Like · Reply · 1 · December 24, 2016 at 7:47am
David L. Quinn Totally agree, I see NP with own practice and feel we are behind. I work for a large corporation and
they seek NP over PA.
Like · Reply · December 24, 2016 at 6:35pm
Nate Marsden This is great! This is the only way to ensure the future of our career and to be sure we aren't pushed
out by NPs.
Like · Reply · December 26, 2016 at 5:47pm
Jill Delana Short Absolutely!
Like · Reply · December 23, 2016 at 3:25pm
American Academy of PAs
January 7 at 8:00pm · · Report story as fake
In a formal letter, the Society of Dermatology PAs (SDPA) Board of Directors expressed their full
support of the Joint Task Force on PA Practice Authority's proposal on full practice authority and
responsibility (FPAR). SDPA believes that PAs have demonstrated a mastery of skill proficiency and
medical knowledge and that FPAR will give PAs greater opportunity, mobility and improve patient
access to care.
Society of Dermatology PAs (SDPA)
The Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SDPA) Board of Directors with much thought and consideration
fully endorses the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) proposed policy on Full Practice Authority and
Responsibility…
NEWS-CENTER.AAPA.ORG
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Jillian Benson AAPA we need more societies to do this! ! We need the support of the white house. We provide care
to the president, we have to somehow get them behind us and backing FPAR. It has been too long for PAs to not be
recognized for who we are and what our profession can do. This needs to be at a national level none of this left up to
the state stuff. Enough of the barriers. We are all behind you AAPA tell us what we need to do.
Like · Reply · 2 · January 8 at 10:56am
Eric Wurtz Let's get this done. Then get rid of the 10yr test!
Like · Reply · 2 · January 8 at 12:31pm
Melody Flannery Kristin Harris
Like · Reply · January 7 at 11:55pm
Laura Fisher Tory Fisher
Like · Reply · January 8 at 9:23am
Amy K Mosman Deidre Brown
Like · Reply · January 7 at 10:10pm
Amanda Meyer Kimberlee London
Like · Reply · January 8 at 9:02am
Anvar Hoja Ruben Saavedra
Like · Reply · January 7 at 8:20pm
American Academy of PAs
December 14, 2016 · · Report story as fake
Dear AAPA Members:
I wanted to let you know about an important development at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
(VA). The VA has finalized a rule that gives advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), with the
exception of nurse anesthetists, full practice authority within the VA.
In written comments, AAPA strongly urged the VA to include PAs in this rule. We believe that PAs
should be on equal footing with our nurse colleagues and will continue to work to achieve par...
See More
AAPA News Center
Full Practice Authority and Responsibility
NEWS-CENTER.AAPA.ORG
Comments
Laura Ernst I hope this lobbying includes equal pay and opportunities. NP's in the VA are regularly paid at least 1 GS
step higher than PA's, even when in the same department doing the same job. I think that's the definition of equal
opportunity violation.
Like · Reply · 2 · December 15, 2016 at 8:42am
American Academy of PAs Hi Laura Ernst We have been working with VA PA Association and others behind the
scenes on the pay disparity issue for a number of years. And we will continue to do
so.https://www.aapa.org/twocolumn.aspx?id=2147485496
Like · Reply · 2 · December 15, 2016 at 12:01pm
Jillian Benson Everyone please send in your comments to the above mentioned email. Please we need to stand up
not sit down now is the time! !
Like · Reply · 1 · December 14, 2016 at 10:38pm
Mariana Luyando-Smith What else can we do from our regions , where we practice , how can one get involve . If we
don't push forward we will be push to side lines .
Like · Reply · December 14, 2016 at 11:49pm
Jeremy Kersey Wholeheartedly agree that PAs need full practice authority. We are just as competent as APRNs and
should have similar footing as practitioners. Thank you AAPA for waging this battle and please keep fighting until the
goal is achieved.
Like · Reply · 8 · December 14, 2016 at 9:39pm
Julie Lowe Doyle We are MORE competent. The nurses just have a better lobby.
Like · Reply · 2 · December 15, 2016 at 6:24pm
Jeremy Kersey I agree.
Like · Reply · December 15, 2016 at 6:31pm
Julie Lowe Doyle NPs get more than we do simply because they have a stronger lobby and there are more of them.
We need to be more vocal at the national and the state level. Get to know your legislators. Educate your
administrators. Let them know about the differences in education between the two groups. My former employer went
all in for the NPs and won't even entertain the idea of hiring a PA. Now the docs are noticing the lack of training on
the part of NPs. But by the time that info gets back to the decision makers, it's too late.
Like · Reply · 1 · December 15, 2016 at 6:29pm
Adam Feigenbaum The VA reflects society as a whole, NPs get privileges and soon enough PAs get the same. The
AAPA is doing a great job, but we aren't on the lobbying level of nursing quite yet.
Like · Reply · 1 · December 15, 2016 at 8:24am
Maria Suz Thanks AAPA! I really am not surprised by the VA. Keep up the good fight!!
Like · Reply · 1 · December 14, 2016 at 8:16pm
💪💪�
💪💪�
💪💪�
Brandon Jones NP's don't even take Gross Anatomy.
Like · Reply · 2 · December 15, 2016 at 3:48pm · Edited
Teresa Henderson We are daily seeing the power of numbers and a strong lobby! And, once again, it is
demonstrated that the mandatory PANRE means nothing to employers. Wake Up!
Like · Reply · 3 · December 15, 2016 at 12:34am
Blaine Sinz Even outside of this issue, I do not understand how the difference in clinical autonomy between NPs and
PAs can be rightly justified? At least in Pennsylvania, we hold the exact same responsibilities in the workplace and
are virtually interchangeable. And through shadowing, working as a PA student, and working as a PA, I have yet to
see a significant knowledge difference one way or the other. Is it just that NPs have stronger lobbying support? Can
someone throw me a bone here??
Like · Reply · December 15, 2016 at 2:54pm · Edited
Lynn Holztrager Jones Great picture of you Jo!!!!
Like · Reply · December 15, 2016 at 11:02am
Thomas Paine As a new grad this is very obvious. Even in well established hospitals there is a notion that NP's are
preferred well above PA's. Why are they afforded the opportunity to practice this way? The AAPA works along side
the AMA and they should be the governing body to say who can and can't practice "with full authority". It feels as
though one could arbitrarily create an Association, lobby for it, call themselves practitioners and say to heck with the
establishment.
I'm on my feet Josanne and I'm ready to blaze some trails.
Like · Reply · December 15, 2016 at 11:43pm · Edited
Through January 24, 2017
Nov. 12, 2016
https://www.facebook.com/AAPA.org/posts/10157789174150078
After 50 years, we believe that the PA profession has demonstrated a commitment to competent and quality
care for our patients. It is natural for our profession to seek to define its future. After initial deliberations, the
Task Force on the Future of PA Practice Authority, which was established in July, believes the profession
should consider and commit to a process that gives PAs "Full Practice Authority and Responsibility." In this
process we seek to make the PA profession and individual PAs more accountable, preserve our positive
relationship with physicians, and, by decreasing unnecessary administrative burdens on physicians, PAs and
our employers, increase access to care for patients.
The Joint Task Force on the Future of PA Practice Authority is looking for thoughtful and transparent
feedback from the PA community. Your feedback will help shape the recommendations that will be presented
to the House of Delegates in May 2017.
Please read the document that outlines the initial recommendations. We invite feedback by email at
[email protected]://bit.ly/PAPracticeAuthority
Joint Task Force on the Future of PA Practice Authority
The PA community has been wrestling with the concept that we have been calling Full Practice Authority/Responsibility for
several years. The AAPA...
AAPA.ORG
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Aimee Carevich Hariramani On our Texas PA Jurisprudence exam, we must answer that PA's may not exercise "independent
medical judgement." All we may do is see patients, order and interpret labs and imaging, treat, prescribe, and do procedures, but
heaven forbid we "exercise independent medical judgement!" I think this is a fabulous initiative! I look forward to helping in
whatever ways I can!
Like · Reply · 3 · November 13, 2016 at 2:14am
Laurie Jeanne Mazzei Yes, we need this. If this passes, I can open my own practice without worrying about trying to find an
MD who would be willing to take the time and responsibility to supervise me, and not have to worry about the possibility of them
moving in a differen...See More
Like · Reply · December 12, 2016 at 8:27pm
Whitney White Wow! Huge strides are being made. I'm excited for the future of the profession!
Like · Reply · 2 · November 12, 2016 at 4:43pm
Lynette A. White Great! Maybe now I can actually alleviate some of the healthcare burden and stop being used as a cheap
doctor!
Like · Reply · 1 · November 12, 2016 at 7:45pm
Laura Remaklus DeWitz Love the wording of it too. Stays true to our roots yet moves us forward in a necessary way.
Like · Reply · 1 · November 13, 2016 at 5:46pm
Lane Haynes this nurse supports it! I think it will be great for patients!!
Like · Reply · 1 · November 20, 2016 at 6:20pm
Jasmin Castillo Sounds great.
Like · Reply · 1 · November 12, 2016 at 5:51pm
Joshua Talbert Nice!!
Like · Reply · 1 · November 12, 2016 at 4:15pm
Bea Balsamo about time
Like · Reply · 1 · November 12, 2016 at 1:54pm
Howard Chaitoff I suggest MP. Medical Practitioner.
Like · Reply · 1 · November 14, 2016 at 1:55am
Karen Azukas Would be great if moved fast on this!
Bravo AAPA.
Like · Reply · 2 · November 13, 2016 at 9:48am
Laura Baker It's about time!!
Like · Reply · 1 · November 12, 2016 at 8:00pm
Dec. 13, 2016
https://www.facebook.com/AAPA.org/posts/10157958623685078
As the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs today announces new rules granting advance practice registered
nurses (APRNs) full practice authority in the VA system, the American Academy of PAs (AAPA) is actively
working with senior officials at the VA to institute a similar rule for PAs.
AAPA recognizes the critical need for PAs to join their APRN and physician colleagues and obtain full
practice authority in order to increase both access and quality of care at the VA.
https://www.aapa.org/twocolumn.aspx…
AAPA Urges VA to Grant Full Practice Authority for PAs After Extending Authority
to APRNs
As the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs today announced new rules granting Advance Practice Registered Nurses (APRN’s)
full practice authority in the VA…
AAPA.ORG
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American Academy of PAs Our July 2016 Comments to Department of Veterans Affairs on Full Practice Authority of APRNs
Employed by the VA: https://www.aapa.org/workarea/downloadasset.aspx...
Like · Reply · 5 · December 13, 2016 at 9:16pm · Edited
Cortney Bax Why did PAs get left out of this is the first place? We were started by veterans! I don't understand why we are
always behind the ARNPs in practice rights....other than the fact that we rely on medical boards to give us rights in many cases
and the ARNPs get to govern themselves through nursing boards.
Like · Reply · 1 · December 14, 2016 at 4:32pm
Dan Arthur Unfortunately, I think it's because the nurses Union is large and strong.. Lots of lobbying power and that allows the
NPs to slowly creep ahead.
PAs should have all the same rights!
Like · Reply · December 14, 2016 at 8:45pm · Edited
Cortney Bax Dan Arthur you're right. Nurses out number PAs which means a lot more money for lobbying which in turn equals
more legislative wins. PAs will never have the numbers we can just hope the NPs help support us when they are working for their
own rights. It's a battle we are fighting in my state constantly and so far seem to be losing.
Like · Reply · 1 · December 14, 2016 at 8:50pm
Dan Arthur I agree. It also helps that we have our own nursing board!
Like · Reply · December 14, 2016 at 8:53pm
Cortney Bax luckily we have some NPs out there that get it...or have a personal interest in seeing us succeed
Like · Reply · December 14, 2016 at 8:54pm
😉😉
Dan Arthur We're all on the same team! And yeah, I guess you could say I'm slightly invested.. Haha
Like · Reply · December 14, 2016 at 10:13pm
American Academy of PAs Cortney Bax here are some numbers to put things in perspective: Last year the American Academy
of Nurse Practitioners Political Action Committee (PAC) received $237,562 in contributions from its members for an average per
member contribution of $3.70. The PA PAC received $48,310 or $0.90 per member.
Like · Reply · 1 · December 15, 2016 at 12:16pm
Write a reply...
Julie Lowe Doyle So glad we finally have an AAPA that is really going to bat for us. I'm tired of always following on the coat
tails of the nurses. It would be nice if we could do something first for a change.
Like · Reply · 17 · December 13, 2016 at 9:25pm
Shawn T Lockett Unfortunately we have risk averse people representing us on State licensing boards. They don't want to rock
the boat of the Physicians.
Like · Reply · 1 · December 14, 2016 at 1:22am
Julie Lowe Doyle Shawn T Lockett tell me about it. I spent 4 years on our state PA Council. Very hard to make a dent.
Like · Reply · December 14, 2016 at 6:31pm
Write a reply...
Steven Gilles Glad to see the AAPA stepping up for PAs. Those of us who were saying these kinds of things 10+++ years ago
WERE in fact right. We need full practice authority to ensure we can continue to provide great care for patients.
Like · Reply · 4 · December 13, 2016 at 11:20pm
Dana Coker PAs are still "dependent practitioners" because those who represented our profession decided many years ago that
this was the best strategic position to take, as physicians saw the APRNs as a threat. Our PA leaders (wrongly) believed that if
PAs remained dependent practitioners we'd be the ones most accepted as members of their teams. Very bad decision for us, in
retrospect.
Like · Reply · 2 · December 14, 2016 at 4:57pm
Jillian Benson I have to say it still perplexes me how in the heck PA s take care of the presidents of the United States for god
sake and are in every branch of the army, navy, marines etc but struggle to get even permission to practice or write a dang
prescription! ...See More
Like · Reply · 2 · December 14, 2016 at 10:05am
Gino Picano The VA is awful. Allowing more practitioners to help would make things so much better.
Like · Reply · 1 · December 14, 2016 at 11:59am
Maria Suz Our profession started with 4 Navy corpsmen!! Come on VA! Let's go AAPA, make it happen!
Like · Reply · 1 · December 14, 2016 at 8:10pm · Edited
Oliver Lee Funny that the first PAs in this country were/are veterans and it (VA) put others before its own.
Like · Reply · December 14, 2016 at 2:10pm
Lynn Whitbeck Hepner Congrats to PAs and the VA is taking an important baby steps in the right direction.
Like · Reply · December 14, 2016 at 9:00am
Jillian Benson AAPA this is a must! Do not back down! !
Like · Reply · 1 · December 14, 2016 at 9:17am
Nicole Schtupak-Zernitsky Love.
Thrilled to see that AAPA is going to bat for us.
Like · Reply · December 13, 2016 at 11:32pm
❤
Carrie Walker Stein Yes.
Like · Reply · December 13, 2016 at 10:52pm
Doug Milton Yes!
Like · Reply · December 21, 2016 at 12:36pm
Write a comment...
Dec. 14, 2016
https://www.facebook.com/AAPA.org/posts/10157964107215078
Dear AAPA Members:
I wanted to let you know about an important development at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
The VA has finalized a rule that gives advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), with the exception of
nurse anesthetists, full practice authority within the VA.
In written comments, AAPA strongly urged the VA to include PAs in this rule. We believe that PAs should be
on equal footing with our nurse colleagues and will continue to work to achieve parity with other practitioners
in the VA.
The Federal Register noted, “Several commenters stated that VA should include physician assistants (PA) in
the final rule and grant them full practice authority as well. Other commenters were opposed to the granting of
full practice authority to PAs. We similarly received comments requesting that we include pharmacist
practitioners in the rule. The granting of full practice authority to PAs and pharmacist practitioners was not
addressed in the proposed rule and granting such authority in this final rule is beyond the scope of the
proposed rule. VA would only be able to address the granting of full practice authority to PAs and pharmacist
assistants in a future rulemaking.”
AAPA will continue to push for a rule giving PAs full practice authority in the VA.
Decisions like this dramatically demonstrate why AAPA’s Joint Task Force on the Future of PA Practice
Authority has been working so hard on this issue and why it is soliciting feedback from you. We continue to
hear stories from PAs about jobs going to NPs because they have full practice authority and PAs do not. If PAs
are to remain competitive, the profession must pursue that authority. Please visit AAPA’s news center to read
about the efforts of the Joint Task Force on PA Practice Authority, and send your comments to
[email protected].
Sincerely,
Josanne K. Pagel, MPAS, PA-C, Karuna®RMT, DFAAPA
AAPA President and Chair of the Board
AAPA News Center
Full Practice Authority and Responsibility
NEWS-CENTER.AAPA.ORG
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Laura Ernst I hope this lobbying includes equal pay and opportunities. NP's in the VA are regularly paid at least 1 GS step
higher than PA's, even when in the same department doing the same job. I think that's the definition of equal opportunity
violation.
Like · Reply · 2 · December 15, 2016 at 8:42am
American Academy of PAs Hi Laura Ernst We have been working with VA PA Association and others behind the scenes on the
pay disparity issue for a number of years. And we will continue to do so.https://www.aapa.org/twocolumn.aspx?id=2147485496
Like · Reply · 2 · December 15, 2016 at 12:01pm
Jillian Benson Everyone please send in your comments to the above mentioned email. Please we need to stand up not sit down
now is the time! !
Like · Reply · 1 · December 14, 2016 at 10:38pm
Mariana Luyando-Smith What else can we do from our regions , where we practice , how can one get involve . If we don't push
forward we will be push to side lines .
Like · Reply · December 14, 2016 at 11:49pm
Write a reply...
Jeremy Kersey Wholeheartedly agree that PAs need full practice authority. We are just as competent as APRNs and should have
similar footing as practitioners. Thank you AAPA for waging this battle and please keep fighting until the goal is achieved.
Like · Reply · 8 · December 14, 2016 at 9:39pm
Julie Lowe Doyle We are MORE competent. The nurses just have a better lobby.
Like · Reply · 2 · December 15, 2016 at 6:24pm
Jeremy Kersey I agree.
Like · Reply · December 15, 2016 at 6:31pm
Julie Lowe Doyle NPs get more than we do simply because they have a stronger lobby and there are more of them. We need to
be more vocal at the national and the state level. Get to know your legislators. Educate your administrators. Let them know about
the differences i...See More
Like · Reply · 1 · December 15, 2016 at 6:29pm
Adam Feigenbaum The VA reflects society as a whole, NPs get privileges and soon enough PAs get the same. The AAPA is
doing a great job, but we aren't on the lobbying level of nursing quite yet.
Like · Reply · 1 · December 15, 2016 at 8:24am
Maria Suz Thanks AAPA! I really am not surprised by the VA. Keep up the good fight!!
Like · Reply · 1 · December 14, 2016 at 8:16pm
💪💪�
💪💪�
💪💪�
Brandon Jones NP's don't even take Gross Anatomy.
Like · Reply · 2 · December 15, 2016 at 3:48pm · Edited
Teresa Henderson We are daily seeing the power of numbers and a strong lobby! And, once again, it is demonstrated that the
mandatory PANRE means nothing to employers. Wake Up!
Like · Reply · 3 · December 15, 2016 at 12:34am
Blaine Sinz Even outside of this issue, I do not understand how the difference in clinical autonomy between NPs and PAs can be
rightly justified? At least in Pennsylvania, we hold the exact same responsibilities in the workplace and are virtually
interchangeable....See More
Like · Reply · December 15, 2016 at 2:54pm · Edited
Lynn Holztrager Jones Great picture of you Jo!!!!
Like · Reply · December 15, 2016 at 11:02am
Thomas Paine As a new grad this is very obvious. Even in well established hospitals there is a notion that NP's are preferred
well above PA's. Why are they afforded the opportunity to practice this way? The AAPA works along side the AMA and they
should be the gover...See More
Like · Reply · December 15, 2016 at 11:43pm · Edited
Write a comment...
Dec. 23, 2016
https://www.facebook.com/AAPA.org/videos/10158007686870078/
PA Adam Musgrave, PA-C provides his perspective on "Full Practice Authority and Responsibility" (FPAR)
for PAs
2.9K Views
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Angela Schmieder I totally agree. We are already doing it- just need to make it in the books as well. Secondly, I too, feel that
nurse practitioners are being more sought after soley due to lack of supervision requirements
Like · Reply · 1 · December 24, 2016 at 7:47am
David L. Quinn Totally agree, I see NP with own practice and feel we are behind. I work for a large corporation and they seek
NP over PA.
Like · Reply · December 24, 2016 at 6:35pm
Nate Marsden This is great! This is the only way to ensure the future of our career and to be sure we aren't pushed out by NPs.
Like · Reply · December 26, 2016 at 5:47pm
Jill Delana Short Absolutely!
Like · Reply · December 23, 2016 at 3:25pm