Author:
Young Peter A.,Griffith Cynthia F.,Ticknor Iesha L.,McElroy-Brooklyn Jameka,DiRuggiero Douglas,Bae Gordon H.,Froman Richard,Kayingo Gerald
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Objective:
This study evaluated the racial and ethnic diversity of physician associate/assistant (PA) graduating cohorts during the profession's transition from a standard undergraduate degree to an entry-level master's degree.
Methods:
Using all existing program reports from the Physician Assistant Education Association (1985-2019), we explored potential associations between changes in tuition, degree types offered, and racial/ethnic makeup of graduating cohorts.
Results:
We observed a strong negative association between Black students and graduates versus increasing tuition and the rise of master's level programs.
Conclusions:
More equitable opportunities for joining the PA profession may be needed.
Publisher
Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)