Breaking Barriers: PAs in Psychiatry
Some barriers exist for Physician Assistants (PAs) looking to break into Psych. Many NPs attend school specifically to learn psychiatry, while PAs receive comprehensive training in all areas of medicine, including psychiatry.
Training Challenges and Physician Preferences
This slight edge, however, can be overcome with better education for physicians and hiring decision makers about the versatile training PAs receive. PAs should highlight their extensive medical training in cover letters and interviews to showcase their readiness for psychiatry roles. We should apply to all jobs, even the ones listed only for NPs. We can initiate conversations, letting hiring managers know that PAs can work in Psych. I had SEVERAL of these conversations with numerous companies and office managers.
Unfortunately, some physicians find it easier to hire NPs who already have a psychiatry focus, making it tough for PAs to get the necessary experience and credentials. But don’t let this discourage you! We need to be proactive and persistent. They are out there, and you will be happy when you find someone that is interested in growing you as a competent provider, and not just wanting a cash cow.
Legislative and Regulatory Hurdles
The legislative landscape can also be tricky. Nursing lobbies are strong and Nurse Practitioner laws are often dictated by the nursing board. This gives NPs a big voice in shaping healthcare policies and expanding their scope of practice. PAs, on the other hand, are fairly weak and regulation falls under the realm of medicine, facing different regulatory and legislative hurdles. This makes it harder for us to get the same level of support and recognition.
Get Involved
To overcome these barriers, we need to educate practices on PA education and abilities and get involved in state and local lobby groups. In New York, the New York State Society of Physician Assistants (NYSSPA) is crucial in advocating for expanding PA roles as providers. By engaging with organizations like NYSSPA, we can push for legislative changes that support our practice and growth.
Seek Supportive Work Arrangements
Another key strategy is to find work arrangements where collaborating physicians understand and value our training. Building strong, supportive relationships with these physicians can help us gain the necessary experience and prove our capabilities in psychiatry.
Support Interstate Practice Expansion
Finally, supporting initiatives like the Physician Assistant Compact (PACT) can help us expand our practices beyond our states. The PACT aims to create an interstate compact that allows PAs to practice across state lines with fewer barriers, increasing our opportunities for employment and growth.
Get involved, stay persistent, and make your voice heard!
Be tenacious.
