Several things changed for practicing physician assistants in 2022, including new recertification options and forward movement on telehealth laws, according to a Dec. 29 report from Medscape.
While telemedicine has become increasingly popular, PAs are limited to only practicing in states in which they were licensed. In October, model legislation was created for PAs that would allow them to practice across state lines.
Currently, the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact legislation allows physicians to practice telehealth in 37 states.
Additionally, The National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants announced a change to recertification exams that will be enacted in January 2023. An alternative exam will be available that removes recertification stress and anxiety and focuses more on core medical knowledge, according to the report.
PAs have also continued to work on having their titles changed from physician assistant to physician associate.
The change is currently in the works with the American Academy of Physician Assistants, and while the name change will not impact day-to-day duties, it will be helpful at legislative and organizational levels, according to the report.