A new survey from Wolters Kluwer Health reveals that artificial intelligence has become a core part of daily clinical practice for physician assistants, also known as physician associates. According to the study, 56 percent of PAs use AI every day, while 19 percent rely heavily on it. The most common applications include clinical documentation, used by 61 percent of respondents, and ambient scribe technologies that assist in patient interaction note-taking, reported by 48 percent. Despite widespread adoption, nearly nine in ten PAs, or 87 percent, say they need to learn more about AI, and 83 percent want structured, employer-led training. Almost nine in ten respondents predict that AI will significantly reshape PA practice. However, only 32 percent report having clear workplace guidelines for safe AI use, highlighting the urgent need for formalized policies, training, and support as the technology becomes more integrated into healthcare.
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The survey, titled Future Forecast: The Growing Impact of PAs in the Healthcare Ecosystem, also emphasizes how the PA role has evolved. About 70 percent of respondents note that their work has changed over the past three years, with the most notable shifts occurring in dealing with insurance issues, reported by 42 percent, and in adapting to AI, cited by 40 percent. PAs with more than five years of experience reported even greater changes than those newer to the profession. These findings underscore the importance of ongoing education and the need for PAs to continuously expand their skills to meet the evolving demands of patient care.
Kelly Villella, Director of Medical Education and Practice at Wolters Kluwer Health, explained that the nearly 74 percent growth in the PA workforce since 2016 reflects their critical role in addressing gaps in healthcare delivery. She highlighted that PAs have become essential members of care teams, supporting patient needs and helping to manage the increasing complexity of clinical environments. Villella also emphasized that the survey sheds light on areas where PA education could be improved and where additional support is necessary to prepare PAs for the realities of modern practice.
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Regarding educational preparedness, 95 percent of PAs reported that their formal studies equipped them to enter the profession, but many noted gaps when transitioning to patient care, particularly in clinical documentation, identified by 23 percent, and prescribing medications, cited by 20 percent. Key findings also showed that 62 percent wished they had more hands-on clinical experience during training, and only 9 percent had access to formal PA residency programs. Despite these gaps, most PAs felt ready for direct patient care, with 96 percent confident in their collaboration with doctors and 90 percent comfortable working alongside medical assistants. When asked for advice for PA students, 20 percent recommended proactive, continuous learning.
Survey respondents expressed high satisfaction with their professional autonomy. Nearly all, 97 percent, reported being able to practice at the top of their license, and 96 percent confirmed they have autonomy in clinical decision-making. While nearly all are formally titled Physician Assistants, 45 percent preferred the title Physician Associate, reflecting a growing trend toward titles that better represent the scope of practice and professional capabilities. Fewer than half, 43 percent, believe patients understand the distinctions between doctors, PAs, and nurse practitioners within care teams. The American Academy of Physician Associates has noted that this shift in title is intended to more accurately reflect the training, independence, and collaborative care contributions of PAs in today’s healthcare system.
Wolters Kluwer commissioned Regina Corso Consulting to conduct this survey, which included 203 practicing PAs across the United States. The participants consisted of 100 PAs with five years of experience or less and 103 PAs with more than five years of practice. The survey was conducted online in September 2025, offering a comprehensive snapshot of the current PA workforce, their experiences with AI, educational preparation, and evolving role in patient care. The report provides actionable insights for employers, educators, and healthcare stakeholders seeking to support and optimize the PA profession in a rapidly changing clinical environment.
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