A planned increase in the number of physician associates (PAs) within the National Health Service (NHS) has garnered support from medical leaders, but apprehensions loom over a new law granting regulatory authority to the General Medical Council (GMC) for overseeing PAs. The British Medical Association (BMA) expresses reservations, citing potential risks to patient safety and an erosion of distinctions between doctors and PAs.
Presently, the NHS employs 3,286 PAs who play a crucial role in supporting healthcare teams, albeit without the authority to prescribe medications or request medical scans. PAs, along with anesthetic associates (AAs), undergo a two-year master’s degree program, often with a science undergraduate degree background.
The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges endorses the drive to augment the number of PAs in the NHS, emphasizing the necessity for clear guidelines on their deployment within healthcare settings.
While medical leaders champion the increased role of PAs, recent cases have highlighted concerns about the clarity of their roles and potential patient safety issues. Families of individuals who sought medical assistance from PAs are calling for well-defined distinctions between the responsibilities of doctors and PAs.
In a tragic incident, Emily Chesterton, aged 30, lost her life due to a missed blood clot diagnosis during two appointments with a PA, whom she believed to be a general practitioner (GP). The PA recommended paracetamol for Emily’s leg pain, ultimately failing to identify a blood clot, leading to a fatal pulmonary embolism.
Another case involving Ben Peters raises questions about the discharge process for patients under the care of a PA. Ben’s case, while following correct procedures, underscored the fact that patients might be discharged without direct consultation with a doctor. Ben’s rare condition, an acute aortic dissection, was not identified during his visit to the emergency department, contributing to his untimely death.
The BMA’s concerns regarding the blurred lines between doctors and PAs and the potential impact on patient safety emphasize the need for clear regulations and guidelines as the NHS moves forward with plans to expand the role of physician associates.
