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Title: National trends in the United States of America physician assistant workforce from 1980 to 2007
Citation Type: Journal Article
Publication Year: 2009
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Abstract: Background: The physician assistant (PA) profession is a nationally recognized medical professionin the United States of America (USA). However, relatively little is known regarding national trendsof the PA workforce.Methods: We examined the 1980-2007 USA Census data to determine the demographicdistribution of the PA workforce and PA-to-population relationships. Maps were developed toprovide graphical display of the data. All analyses were adjusted for the complex census design andanalytical weights provided by the Census Bureau.Results: In 1980 there were about 29 120 PAs, 64% of which were males. By contrast, in 2007there were approximately 97 721 PAs with more than 66% of females. In 1980, Nevada had thehighest estimated rate of 40 PAs per 100 000 persons, and North Dakota had the lowest rate(three). The corresponding rates in 2007 were about 85 in New Hampshire and ten in Mississippi.The levels of PA education have increased from less than 21% of PAs with four or more years ofcollege in 1980, to more than 65% in 2007. While less than 17% of PAs were of minority groups in1980, this figure rose to 23% in 2007. Although nearly 70% of PAs were younger than 35 years oldin 1980, this percentage fell to 38% in 2007.Conclusion: The trends of sustained increase and geographic variation in the PA workforce wereidentified. Educational level, percentage of minority, and age of the PA workforce have increasedover time. Major causes of the changes in the PA workforce include educational factors and federallegislation or state regulation.
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Authors: Cyran, Ellen; He, Xiaoxing Z.
Periodical (Full): Human Resources for Health
Issue: 7
Volume: 86
Pages:
Data Collections: IPUMS USA
Topics: Labor Force and Occupational Structure
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