Protecting the Future of PA Education: SEMPA Responds to H.R. 1

SEMPA appreciates the position statements written and published by AAPA and PAEA regarding H.R. 1 – the Big Beautiful Bill Act. These positions aim to highlight the necessary rigorous and standardized nature of PA education and assure the PA profession continues to evolve in a way that best supports the healthcare system and the increasing number of patients requiring timely and high-quality care. The current recommendations in the H.R. 1 bill are likely to have a significant impact on the future of PA education. The cost of acquiring a PA degree has significantly increased and poses a financial hurdle requiring the majority of students to seek federal education loans for financial support during training.

Entering the PA profession is necessarily competitive. The highest-quality applicants are sought from diverse backgrounds and bring unique experiences to their training and practice. SEMPA is concerned that, without revisions, the current bill as written may prohibit many otherwise qualified and talented candidates from pursuing the PA profession.

This is a complex topic that creates a unique opportunity to engage in professional and collegial discussions amongst our PA and other healthcare peers, lawmakers, and other professionals impacted by this bill. We encourage SEMPA members and all PAs to educate themselves on H.R.1, the AAPA statement, and the PAEA statement to formulate educated opinions and advocate for the PA profession by getting involved in your state, specialty, or national organization to make your voice heard.

Click here to read the AAPA statement.
Click here to read the PAEA Statement.
Click here for more information on signing the AAPA petition.