PA, NP Hiring Tops Physicians at U.S. Health Centers

NACHC Chartbook Underscores Growing Opportunities for PAs

February 27, 2020

U.S. health centers are now hiring PAs and NPs at a higher rate than physicians, according to research recently released by the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC).

NACHC’s annual Community Health Center Chartbook provides an overview of the Health Center Program and the communities they serve. Released in February, the 2020 chartbook reported that as of 2018, health centers employed more PAs, NPs, and certified nurse midwives than physicians.

Community Health Centers are an important employer of PAs, employing approximately 6 percent of all PAs in the U.S.

In addition to underscoring that employment opportunities for PAs are on the rise, this research also provides valuable insight for policymakers and employers working to make the most of the healthcare workforce.

Ronald Yee, MD, Chief Medical Officer of the NACHC, says the chartbook is a trusted source of information for industry leaders.

“The NACHC Chartbook is a great tool for policymakers, health care industry leaders and scholars who want to understand the scope, reach and impact of the Federal Health Centers program and staffing trends, such as the rate of non-physician providers being hired at health centers,” Yee said. “Whom health centers serve, what they do, and their impressive record of accomplishments in keeping communities healthy are represented in this data and make a compelling case for the value of their investment.”

Along with the U.S. Bureau and Labor Statics’ prediction that PA employment will grow 31% from 2018 and 2028, this news from the NACHC illustrates that the demand for PAs is increasing and PAs are stepping up to serve where they are needed in communities across the country.

The Community Health Center Chartbook uses graphics and charts to describe who health centers serve, how health centers meet their communities’ needs, health center growth and remaining challenges, and how health centers make an impact. To learn more about NACHC, go to nachc.org.

Resources:
2019 AAPA Salary Report
AAPA Job Search