Physician assistants (PAs) should function under the direction and responsible supervision of a practicing, licensed physician. Under no circumstances should responsibilities be assigned to a PA unless the supervising physician possesses the necessary training, experience and demonstrated current competence.
The American Academy of Family Physicians believes training programs preparing PAs, like the training for all health care clinicians, should be constantly monitored to assure the quality of training provided and that the number of graduates reflects demonstrated needs.
The AAFP supports payment for services of PAs as part of a physician-led care team. Services provided under direct physician supervision and billed incident -to the physician’s professional services should be paid at the same level as services provided directly by the physician.
The AAFP opposes efforts to change the professional title of 'Physician Assistants' (PAs) to 'Physician Associates.' Non-Physician Clinicians are critical members of physician-led care teams. To receive the best care possible, patients must clearly understand who is providing their care. (1984) (October 2025 COD)