The PA Profession: Leadership, Education, and the Future of Care

In this episode of Nurse to Health, we explore the current and evolving role of Physician Assistants (PAs) in modern healthcare through the perspectives of two leaders shaping the profession from different directions. Lara West of Northwell Health and Scott Gould of the Hofstra Physician Assistant Studies Program join us for a wide-ranging conversation about the past, present, and future of the PA profession.Drawing from both clinical leadership and academic experience, they discuss how PAs have become an essential part of healthcare delivery across a rapidly changing medical landscape. The conversation examines the profession’s origins, expanding responsibilities, collaborative role within healthcare teams, and the growing demands placed on today’s clinicians and educators.From workforce challenges and patient access to the future of PA education and professional identity, this episode highlights how and why Physician Assistants play a vital snd expandingrole in the delivery of high-quality, team-based care.