PA Autonomy Levels the Field

I can’t tell you how refreshing it is to read an editorial that portrays PA autonomy in a positive light (2017;27[2]:12-14). I live in Michigan, and the physician I worked with for years is relieved to finally see laws changing for PAs. Physicians want less accountability, as they are carrying so much already. The phrase “supervising physician” can feel burdensome, particularly because of its implications in a court of law. When I took time off to spend with my kids, the physician I worked with hired two NPs; he said that their increased drive for autonomy made him feel less legally responsible. The new bill passed here has altered his thinking about hiring PAs versus NPs.

I believe eventually, with increased practice authority, a title change is inevitable for the PA profession. According to my 14–year-old niece, “PAs obviously can’t do anything by themselves, or their title wouldn’t be ‘assistant.’” This is truly a misnomer that doesn’t reflect the PA scope of practice.

Diana Burmeister, PA-C
Southfield, MI