10/31/2025

OAPA Annual Conference Recap: Advancing Practice, Building Community

On October 23–24, 2025, OAPA brought together more than 125 PAs, educators, students, and presenters, from across the state for a dynamic two-day event focused on learning, networking, and professional growth.

From the opening session through the closing remarks, attendees were immersed in high-quality CME programming, educational tracks, a networking happy hour, a lively student Challenge Bowl, and plenty of opportunity to connect with exhibitors and fellow PAs.

It was a high-energy, can't-miss event for the Ohio PA community. But don't just take our word for it. Here's what attendees had to say...

"Gets better every year!"

"The best money I have ever spent on professional development."

"Very good flow and content."

"Such a great way to network and catch up with friends. Reaffirming vibes all around..."

"Great venue with great food options all throughout. The seafood bar was fantastic."

"Congrats for a very productive conference - see you next year!"

Day 1 Highlights

The morning kicked off with a full breakfast and product theater, followed by presentations on the PANRE/PANRE-LA, axial spondyloarthritis, pediatric nutrition, and osteoporotic vertebral fractures.

After a delicious lunch, attendees learned about advocacy for advancing the Ohio PA profession, recognizing potential amyloidosis, evaluating eye emergencies, and precepting with purpose.

The evening got started with a well-attended networking happy hour that brought registrants together to unwind together after a full day of programming. Then it was all eyes on the Challenge Bowl, where PA students put their knowledge to the test as the audience cheered them on.

Day 2 Highlights

Friday opened with another full breakfast and product theater, followed by dedicated educator and student tracks. Educator sessions covered topics like accreditation standards and how AI can support PA education. Student-focused sessions looked at time management strategies, postgraduate opportunities, and careers in field medical affairs.

On the CME side, presenters tackled executive leadership roles for PAs, the latest 2025 GINA asthma guidelines, how AI can enhance PA practice, recent cancer trends in young adults, preoperative assessments of surgical patients, and a multidisciplinary look at hidradenitis suppurativa.

The conference also included a recognition ceremony for OAPA award and scholarship winners and poster presenters, along with a special lunch for OAPA Past Presidents.

Networking & Engagement

Beyond the formal sessions, the conference offered rich opportunities to network with peers, connect with industry exhibitors and recruiters, cheer on student teams in the Challenge Bowl and engage in meaningful discussions about the future of PA practice in Ohio. The conference venue, with its modern setting and inviting natural light overlooking a pond, added an extra touch of camaraderie and relaxation after a full day of learning.

Looking Ahead

As attendees return to their daily lives, academic programs, and clinical roles, the insights, connections and momentum generated at the OAPA Annual Conference will continue to drive professional growth and collaboration.

For those who attended, whether you came to refresh your clinical knowledge, explore emerging technologies, support students, or simply engage with the PA community in Ohio, you’re now better equipped and better connected!

If you couldn’t join us this year, make plans now to be part of the 2026 conference. You won’t want to miss the energy, insights, and connections that make it unforgettable! Dates and location to be announced in the coming months.