E14 | Physician Associates: Bridging Gaps in Access

This week on The Pathway, Taylor and Sarang explore the expanding role of Physician Associates (PAs)—formerly known as Physician Assistants—in mental healthcare. They break down the medical model PAs operate within, highlighting how collaboration with physicians, nurse practitioners, therapists, and other providers enhances the quality of care.
The conversation covers the PA’s unique flexibility, their growing impact in mental health treatment, and the legislative barriers that still limit their full potential. If you're curious about how interdisciplinary care can meet mental health needs more effectively, this one’s for you.

00:00 Introduction to the PA Profession
01:00 Understanding the Role of PAs
02:50 PAs in Mental Health Care
05:00 Collaboration in Healthcare
09:00 Challenges in Mental Health Care Access
12:00 The Value of PAs in Patient Care
16:00 Legislative Limitations for PAs
19:00 Advice for Aspiring PAs
22:00 Flexibility in the PA Career

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