PAEA supports comprehensive reform that improves the quality, delivery, and access to care for all Americans. PAEA will be an active participant in ensuring a positive impact on PA education programs as they continue to produce primary care clinicians.

PAEA supports the reauthorization and modernization of Title VII to recognize the value of PAs in the health care workforce. We will seek increased funding for PA education programs, to include:

• Funding for faculty development
• Funding for faculty loan repayment
• Funding for student clinical rotations
• Funding for student scholarships and loan repayment
• Change in the definition of PA programs in Title VII to reflect the current reality of PA education

Many PA programs have become self-sufficient in funding their programs through a combination of tuition, institutional support, and non-federal grants. Due to the variable funding levels that have been available through Title VII grants, programs have not relied on these as dedicated funding streams. PAEA will explore nontraditional funding streams (from federal agencies, foundations, and strategic partners) to expand support for PA student clinical rotations as well as for faculty development.

PAEA will educate its membership about the importance of applying for increased grant funding opportunities, particularly those offered through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).

PAEA will conduct bipartisan outreach on Capitol Hill to educate members of Congress and their staffs about PA education, its challenges, and what is needed for physician assistants to be recognized as an effective solution to the health care workforce crisis. PAEA will contact federal agencies with which we may establish relationships to obtain additional funding, as well as expand student clinical rotation opportunities.

For further information about PAEA’s government relations activities, contact Director of Government Relations Athena Abdullah, aabdullah@PAEAonline.org; (703) 548-5538, ext. 303.