10/01/2024

PA Week Is Almost Here!

As we celebrate PA Week, October 6-12, 2024, it's essential to delve into the remarkable growth of the PA profession.

Over the past few decades, PAs have evolved from a nascent role to integral members of healthcare teams, addressing patient needs across various specialties. With the increasing demand for healthcare services, the ultimate flexibility and expertise PAs bring has led to their expanded roles, including in primary care and specialized fields. This growth reflects not only the profession's adaptability but also its commitment to improving patient outcomes and access to care.

In Ohio, recent changes in legislation have impacted the PA profession, reflecting a broader trend of recognizing PAs as vital healthcare providers, addressing workforce shortages, and improving patient access to care. There is more work to do in Ohio as we continue to modernize the PA role in healthcare and our efforts begin with our members.

OAPA is working hard to make Ohio the premier state for PAs!

We recognize the importance of brand recognition for the PA profession as an important first step toward garnering support from our stakeholders including patients, health care team members, and legislators. 

We are thrilled to announce that Governor DeWine has officially declared 10/6/24-10/12/24 as PA Week in Ohio! 

This comes on the heels of Ohio becoming the 13th state to join the PA Licensure Compact.

Further, our OAPA Public Relations Committee Chair (and Vice President) Michell McDiffett, PA-C, recently sat down with the State Medical Board of Ohio and completed an interview about Ohio PAs for the SMBO's new podcast, “Med Board Pulse.” The episode will be released during PA Week and can be found here, or on Spotify, YouTube Music, Amazon Music and Apple Podcasts.

Follow our social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn) for more content during PA Week including new wellness resources for Ohio PAs.

As we celebrate PA Week, it’s important to recognize the advancement of the profession and OAPA’s vision for shaping the future of healthcare in Ohio. Let's honor the dedication and impact of PAs everywhere!