UK Launches Review of Physician Associates' Roles

Health Secretary Wes Streeting has initiated an independent review into the roles of physician associates (PAs) and anaesthesia associates (AAs) in the NHS amid rising concerns about patient safety and the adequacy of these positions. The review, led by Professor Gillian Leng, will assess the training, scope of practice, and regulatory frameworks surrounding PAs, who currently assist doctors after completing two years of postgraduate training. With over 3,500 PAs employed, the government plans to expand this number to 10,000 by 2036, despite calls from the Royal College of GPs and the British Medical Association to halt recruitment until safety issues are resolved. The review aims to clarify the roles of PAs and AAs, ensuring patients are informed about their healthcare providers, and will seek input from various stakeholders including employers and patients. Findings and recommendations are expected in spring 2025, coinciding with a broader NHS workforce plan update. Streeting acknowledged the 'toxic debate' surrounding these roles and emphasized the need for transparency and effective deployment within the NHS.