Key challenges physician assistants face and emerging trends in the profession
The healthcare landscape is shifting rapidly, and at the center of this evolution is the physician assistant (PA) workforce. As patient demand rises and primary care gaps widen, PAs are stepping up to provide critical support in both urban and rural settings. Federal employment projections estimate the PA workforce will grow between 20% and 28% from 2024 to 2034. This is among the fastest rates for any healthcare profession, with approximately 12,000 new PA positions expected to open each year.
These experts play a vital role in reducing wait times and supporting the diverse needs of patient populations. However, rapid growth brings its own set of hurdles. A comprehensive survey of 203 practicing PAs conducted in September 2025 provides a detailed look at the biggest physician assistant trends and the most important challenges physician assistants face today.
Bridging the gap between PA education and real-world practice
Survey results show that most PAs want more hands-on training before starting their careers, with over three in five (62%) wishing they had more clinical experience during their education. While almost all PAs (96%) felt prepared for patient interactions when they began practicing, only 80% felt ready for documentation tasks, highlighting the need for better preparation in administrative responsibilities.
Navigating the challenges physician assistants face with AI and insurance
The daily reality of being a PA has evolved significantly in a short time. Seven in ten PAs (70%) say their profession has changed over the past three years. When asked to identify the biggest drivers of this change, two factors stood out: dealing with insurance companies (42%) and the rise of artificial intelligence (40%).
The AI revolution in PA practice
Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept; it is here, and it is actively reshaping workflows. Currently, 56% of PAs use AI in their practice. The primary use cases are administrative:
- 61% use AI for documentation
- 48% use AI for patient notes
Despite widespread adoption, 87% of PAs feel they need more AI training. This highlights a gap in education and support. For hospital leaders, investing in AI training is a key opportunity to boost efficiency and reduce staff burnout.
How physician assistants are shaping their professional identity
As PAs take on greater responsibilities, their professional title has become a key issue. While 99% of PAs are still called “Physician Assistants,” nearly half (45% ) would prefer “Physician Associate” to better reflect their autonomy and expertise. This desire for clearer identity extends to patient interactions, as only 43% of PAs believe patients understand the different roles within their care team. This highlights a need for better communication to ensure patients recognize the integral role PAs play in modern healthcare.
Resilience and fulfillment in the physician assistant profession
Despite administrative challenges and ongoing change, the physician assistant profession boasts high morale. Nearly all PAs (97%) are satisfied with their ability to practice at the top of their profession, and 96% report having autonomy in their roles. These figures paint a picture of a resilient workforce that, despite the hurdles, finds deep fulfillment in delivering high-quality patient care.
The role of PAs in the future of healthcare
The data detailed in Future Forecast: The Growing Impact of PAs in Healthcare tells a compelling story. We are seeing a workforce that is growing rapidly, adapting to new technology, and seeking greater professional recognition.
For physician assistant leaders and hospital administrators, the path forward involves three key actions:
- Enhance training: Meaningful focus on documentation and administrative skills during onboarding can reduce friction for new hires.
- Invest in tech education: Providing formal training on AI tools will empower PAs to work more efficiently.
- Advocate for the profession: Supporting clarity in titles and roles will improve patient trust and professional satisfaction.
The future of healthcare relies heavily on the expertise and dedication of PAs. By addressing these current trends, we can ensure they are supported, equipped, and recognized for the vital work they do.
