From 2015 to 2017, the number of PAs grew more than 13%. The average salary is almost $108,000. Some trends to watch in 2020:
1. Physician Shortage: Physician assistants are viewed as part of the solution to the country’s physician shortage. By 2030, this shortage is expected to grow to as many as 120,000 doctors, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges.
The young age of PAs—which averages about 38—is a bright spot in the healthcare workforce.
2. Moderning certification exams: This year, the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants will offer electronic administration of the 10-year recertification exam, allowing PAs to take the exam on phone, laptop, tablet, and desktop computers.
3. Updating state legislation: States are modernizing their legislation as it relates to PA practice because the healthcare industry has changed from PAs working for one doctor to more providers working in health systems.