Family doctors in BC back Physician Assistant integration
Team-based care is the future. We know that family doctors collaborating with skilled colleagues can offer their patients more – increased attachment, faster access, expanded clinical services, and the time needed to provide the complex care that only continuity makes possible.
BC Family Doctors believes physician assistants (PA) are well-positioned to be part of that team. Our letter of support to the Canadian Association of Physician Assistants calls for the integration of PAs into BC’s primary care system.
As physician extenders working under the collaborative supervision of a family doctor, we see PAs as valuable members of physician-led teams. Our letter of support highlights six elements for consideration to ensure the effective introduction of PA’s into BC’s primary care system:
- Inclusion of physician voice in design and integration
- Clear accountability and liability frameworks
- Structured supervision that evolves with the relationship
- Practice level flexibility within a consistent provincial framework
- Regulation through the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC
- Sustainable resourcing for collaborative practice
We’re committed to being an active and constructive partner in building a framework that supports successful PA integration for the benefit of all British Columbians.
Read our full letter here.