Medical leaders, including The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, have recently expressed their support for a planned increase in the number of Physician Associates (PAs) within the National Health Service (NHS). However, their endorsement comes with a warning – clear guidelines must be established to ensure patient safety and role clarity as this expansion takes place.

According to a recent article published by BBC News, The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges has supported the proposed increase in the number of physician associates (PAs), acknowledging their valuable contributions to healthcare teams. The government says it wants to increase the number of PAs to 10,000 by 2036 to 2037 and the number of Anaesthesia Associates (AAs) to 2,000 over the same period. However, despite this support, concerns have been raised, particularly by the British Medical Association (BMA), about the potential overlap of roles between PAs and doctors and the impact on patient safety.

Physician Associates can play a key role in healthcare, aiding teams by conducting physical examinations, developing treatment plans, and providing essential support. Yet, recent cases, such as that of Emily Chesterton, who died due to a misdiagnosis by a PA, emphasise the need for clearer guidelines regarding their responsibilities and limitations.

Regulatory Update

An impending regulation, known as the Anaesthesia Associates and Physician Associates Order 2024, signifies a step forward in overseeing the work of PAs and Anaesthetic Associates (AAs). This legislation, approved by both houses of Parliament, aims to provide regulatory oversight, ensuring adequate training and establishing a defined scope of practice for these professionals. In response, The General Medical Council (GMC), and Royal College of Physicians (RCP) have stressed that there needs to be additional education, a defined scope of practice and guidance for PAs and AAs, which they hope regulation will bring.

Working with Physician Associates – Roles, Regulation and Risk Management

In our previously published article “Working with Physician Associates—Roles, Regulation and Risk Management,” we discussed the Emily Chesterton case and the complexities involved in integrating Physician Associates (PAs) into the healthcare system. The article also sheds light on risk management for doctors who work with PAs. Read more here.

Healthcare Solicitors Guildford and London

At Gordons Partnership, we have a well-established and experienced healthcare department. As part of our work, we only act in the defence of healthcare professionals. To find out more, please click here.

To speak to a member of our team today, please call 01483 451 900 (Guildford) or 020 7421 9421 (London). Alternatively, please email sols@gordonsols.co.uk or fill in this contact form.