Capitol Connection summit calls upon elected officials to recognize PAs' vital role in health care reform

AAPA honors U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin for commitment to patient care

Hundreds of physician assistants (PAs) will converge in Washington, D.C. on February 23 during the American Academy of Physician Assistants' (AAPA) Capitol Connection summit to deliver the message to Capitol Hill that PAs are integral to a strong health care system that delivers the highest possible care to patients.

"Research suggests that the U.S. will face a shortage of 40,000 family physicians by the year 2020 and that's before we add any new patients from the ranks of the under or uninsured," said Steve Hanson, president of AAPA. "Physician assistants from around the country have come to D.C. to tell Congress that we can help fill this gap. We execute more than 80 percent of the responsibilities of a physician with no compromise in quality or patient care satisfaction — but we need legislative action in order to deliver care to more people."

The Capitol Connection summit drew PAs from across the country to call upon elected officials to recognize the vital role PAs play in health care reform and patient care. At the summit, which is being held over two days in the nation's capitol, PAs will organize to discuss the current state of health care legislation and meet with their Senators and Representatives.

The Capitol Connection summit will also recognize U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin, M.D., with the 2010 AAPA President's Award. Awarded to Dr. Benjamin for her support of PAs in her commitment to patient care, the President's Award honors an outstanding advocate for physician assistants. As "America's Doctor," Dr. Benjamin provides the public with the best scientific information available on how to improve their health and the health of the nation.