Advocacy Central

During PA Week, we’re reflecting on the progress PAs have achieved toward advancing our legislative agenda this year. AAPA is working hard to remove barriers to PA practice to ensure PAs are in the best possible position to improve patient access to high-quality care. So far this year, 20 states introduced PA-positive legislation, and legislators have taken notice!

The American Academy of PAs (AAPA) submitted comments to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the federal agency that oversees the Medicare program, in response to the 2024 Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) proposed rule. The rule recommends numerous changes to Medicare’s coverage and payment policies that impact PAs, physicians and other health professionals.

 On June 21, Gov. John Carney signed S.B.116 into law, making Delaware the second state to join Utah in adopting the PA licensure compact. S.B.116 will strengthen access to medical services and enhance the portability of PA licensure while safeguarding the safety of patients and complementing the existing authority of state licensing boards. 

On July 18, 2023 Gov. Tina Kotek signed into law HB 2627, giving PAs in the state more opportunity to actively partake in efforts improving access to quality care in Oregon. AAPA joins the Oregon Society of Physician Assistants (OSPA) in thanking Representative Bobby Levy for her efforts in sponsoring the legislature and advocating on behalf of the PA profession.