Minnesota Academy of Physician Assistants Announces Name Change

FOR RELEASE ON OCTOBER 6, 2024

Minnesota Academy of Physician Assistants Announces Name Change to Minnesota Academy of Physician Associates

Saint Paul, MN – October 6, 2024 – On the first day of PA Week, the Minnesota Academy of Physician Assistants is proud to announce its official name change to the Minnesota Academy of Physician Associates (MAPA). This change better reflects the role physician associates/physician assistants (PAs) play in healthcare and aims to more effectively
communicate that role with patients. PA Week, an annual event on October 6-12, is a time dedicated to celebrating the contributions of physician associates and raising awareness about their vital role in the healthcare system.

This year, MAPA is excited to mark the beginning of PA Week with the unveiling of its new name, aligning with the national movement led by the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA). The AAPA adopted the new title in 2021, and 18 of its constituent organizations have followed suit.

"After considerable discussion and feedback from our members, we believe that adopting the title 'Physician Associate' better reflects the level of education, training, and clinical autonomy of our profession," said Clinton Billhorn, President of MAPA. "This change aligns MAPA with AAPA’s policies and enhances public understanding and recognition of the significant role PAs play in patient care."

MAPA remains dedicated to its mission of promoting excellence in the practice of PAs and advocating for the advancement of the profession within the state. With this name change, the
organization aims to strengthen its role in supporting the professional development of its members and improving healthcare delivery across Minnesota.

"We are excited about this new chapter and look forward to continuing our work under our updated name," said Alannah Zheng, Co-Chair of the Legislative & Reimbursement Committee

of MAPA. "Our next step will be to pursue legislation to update our professional title within Minnesota statutes.”

For more information about the Minnesota Academy of Physician Associates and its activities, please visit our website at minnesotapa.org or contact us at info@minnesotapa.org.

About the Minnesota Academy of Physician Associates
The Minnesota Academy of Physician Associates is a professional organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for the physician associate profession in Minnesota. Through education, professional development, and advocacy, MAPA works to enhance the practice and recognition of physician associates, ultimately improving healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

Media Contact:
Jim Leahy, CAE
Executive Director
Minnesota Academy of Physician Associates
Phone: (860) 810-3298
Email: leahy@libertysquaregroup.com
Website: www.minnesotapa.org