OAPA
2026 election candidate application deadline April 3

OAPA Community News

Save the Date: 2026 OAPA Annual Conference | August 27–29

Save the Date: 2026 OAPA Annual Conference | August 27–29

In 2026, OAPA is bringing our community together for one premier, in-person Annual Conference, August 27–29 at the Westin Cleveland Downtown. This can’t-miss event will feature expanded educational opportunities, meaningful networking, and a dynamic space to connect with PAs, PA students, and industry partners from across Ohio. Has it been a few years since you’ve attended an OAPA conference, or will 2026 be your first? Either way, this is the year to join us. Mark your calendar now. We can’t wait to see you in Cleveland!


Recognize Excellence. Support Leaders. Serve on the Awards Committee.

Recognize Excellence. Support Leaders. Serve on the Awards Committee.

The Awards Committee advances OAPA’s commitment to excellence by recognizing outstanding PAs and PA students who contribute to the profession, their communities, and OAPA. Committee service runs from May through August and includes periodic email communication, reviewing nomination and application materials, and occasional virtual meetings to select recipients. We invite you to help honor accomplished PAs and promising PA students by serving on this important committee.


Ohio PA Advocacy: Who Owns the PA Profession?

Ohio PA Advocacy: Who Owns the PA Profession?

After 60 years, the PA profession’s greatest challenge isn’t competence, but ownership. Laws, job descriptions, and cultural framing shape identity and, ultimately, confidence. Real progress requires PAs to define, invest in, and lead their profession themselves, showing up in advocacy and leadership to shape what comes next rather than waiting for permission.

PA Profession & Industry Update

Take Care, Build Resilience: OAPA Member Discount for Upcoming RISHI Program

Take Care, Build Resilience: OAPA Member Discount for Upcoming RISHI Program

OAPA members receive a special discount for The Remen Institute for the Study of Health & Illness (RISHI's) upcoming Tending the Flame™ Retreat & Training Workshop, April 24-26, in Centerville, OH. This event is designed to build personal and professional resilience for healthcare professionals. The immersive experience combines reflection, journaling, experiential exercises, and small group sharing to cultivate peace, compassion, and self-care within a supportive professional community.


SMBO Warning Licensees of New Phone Scam

SMBO Warning Licensees of New Phone Scam

The State Medical Board of Ohio is encouraging PAs and other licensees to remain vigilant against new extortion and spoofing scams targeting Ohio providers. Recently, the Board received reports of individuals impersonating Board investigators and contacting licensees via phone, alleging that they have been involved in a drug case in another state.


AHRQ Safety Program for HAI Prevention: VAP/VAE

AHRQ Safety Program for HAI Prevention: VAP/VAE

Ready to make a difference in creating a safe healthcare environment and improving outcomes for patients, all while earning CME? Join the AHRQ Safety Program for HAI Prevention: VAP/VAE to reduce ventilator-associated pneumonia and ventilator-associated events in your hospital. Learn more today!

From Classroom to Clinic

Save the Date: June 20, 2026 | PA OlymPAcs 🏆

Save the Date: June 20, 2026 | PA OlymPAcs 🏆

Calling all athletes… and future PAs who just like a little competition and community. No varsity letter required. No elite stamina needed. Just bring your PA program team spirit! Mark your calendars for the 2026 PA OlymPAcs on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Mount Saint Joseph University in Cincinnati.


Last Chance: Help Save PA Student Loans!

Last Chance: Help Save PA Student Loans!

AAPA Action Request: Contact the Department of Education to urge modification of its proposed rule, Reimagining and Improving Student Education, so that its definition of “professional degree program” includes PA programs and other health care provider programs that fit the definition under H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). Formal comments to the Department of Education are due Monday, March 2, 2026!

One Last Thing...

Don’t Miss a Beat: Stay Updated with OAPA

Don’t Miss a Beat: Stay Updated with OAPA

OAPA works hard to advance the PA profession in Ohio, and we’re constantly sharing important news, updates, and resources for our members. While we post on social media and send emails, the most complete and up-to-date information is always on our website. Check back frequently to stay informed about opportunities and developments that could impact your career.

Upcoming Events

March 5, 2026
6:00PM - 8:00PM EDT

OAPA Region 1 & 2 Dinner with Madrigal Pharmaceuticals

Mindful about MASH: Updates on Disease State, Pathophysiology and Risk Stratification of MASLD

Pier W, Lakewood

March 18, 2026
6:00PM - 8:00PM EST

OAPA Region 6 & 7 Dinner with Amgen

"Lower is Better for Established CVD Patients: Reducing LDL-C and MACE risk with Repatha," presented by Dr. John Paes

Jag's Steak and Seafood, West Chester

March 21, 2026
9:00AM - 10:30AM EDT

CASPA Do’s and Don’ts

Preparing Pre-PA Students for the PA School Application Process

Virtual (Zoom)