What’s a PA?
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“What’s a PA?”. After more than 15 years as a practicing PA, if I had a dollar for every time I’ve been asked that question, I could retire…or at least buy a lifetime supply of coffee. Which, let's be honest, most of us love a good cup of coffee...but I digress. Patients, family members, colleagues, everyone seems to have the question ("What's a PA?") ready to go. And now, just when we, PAs, have mastered the art of explaining what we do, it’s time to explain that our title is changing. It’s a lot to juggle, but if anyone can do it with style and professionalism, it’s us!
Understanding the PA Role in Everyday Care
Understanding the PA Role in Everyday Care
All Physician Assistants (from brand new straight out of school to those of us with years of experience) get questions about our responsibilities. We often hear things like, “So you’re like a Medical Assistant?” or “When are you going to medical school?”. While we smile and explain our role on the healthcare team, these moments can take time away from what truly matters, caring for patients. This lack of clarity makes the PA title change feel extra challenging but also extra necessary. The PA title change is an important opportunity to clarify and celebrate our role. It reminds everyone that only our name is changing, not our responsibilities, while reinforcing the professionalism and patient care we provide every day.
Branding as a Tool for Professional Identity
Branding as a Tool for Professional Identity
The PA=PA message isn’t just catchy, it’s practical. Branding and visible messaging help to bridge the knowledge gap for patients, families, and even other healthcare professionals. And let’s be honest, anything that makes our jobs slightly easier and a little more fun is worth it! By embracing PA title change branding, including t-shirts and other merch, we can spark conversations naturally. When people see “Physician Associate” on a mug or shirt they are more likely to ask questions and remember the title. It’s an easy, friendly way to spread the word about the PA title change. But be sure as practicing PAs that you check with your respective state association before using the new title clinically.
Support the PA title change in style! Explore PA=PA apparel, mugs and accessories at our Merch page and help patients and colleagues get familiar with the new title, one conversation (and one t-shirt) at a time.
From one PA to another,
Rachel
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