AAPA 2019 Annual Conference Highlights

At every AAPA annual conference there are reoccurring topics that will come up throughout the week. At the 2019 AAPA conference in Denver, Colorado three topics that were discussed was optimal team practice (OTP), PA name change and opioid use disorder.

Optimal team practice is the idea of having the PA work to the top of their license in order to get the most out a practicing PA. In certain states the rules allow NPs to have more autonomy, which can affect an organizations decision to hire an NP versus a PA. The main point is to increase opportunities for PAs. The AAPA is working hard to advance the PA career in this matter and working with state organizations to change legislation.

The PA name change has been an ongoing topic for the past several years. This continues to be a hot topic of discussion and something the AAPA is continuing to look at. There have not been any decisions about this currently, but there is more research being done on this topic.

[jetpack_subscription_form title=”Don’t miss out on the latest salary information for PAs” subscribe_text=”Enter your email address to receive future posts by email for FREE” subscribe_button=”Sign Me Up”]

Opioid use disorder is a topic that is hitting all areas of medicine. With increased issues of misuse there continues to be a push towards limiting opioid prescribing and in some cases, not prescribing them at all. Pain has gone from the fifth vital sign to a non-existent symptom, as medical organizations push towards limiting use of opioids.

Although the AAPA conference can be expensive there is always a lot to learn and it covers topics that are specific to PAs. As the only PA in my department at work, it is always refreshing to see so many PAs in one place and everyone you talk with has an understanding of issues you go through.

If you missed this year’s conference some of the lectures will be posted online. Also, start planning ahead for AAPA 2020 conference in Nashville.

Did you make it to the AAPA 2019 conference? What were some take away points for you? Please comment below the original post, sign up to receive future posts by email and share with your friends!