Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) Physician Associate Master of Science Program

Project Description Narrative:

Increasing the number and diversity of physician assistants/associates (PAs) is a partial solution to the mismatch between the increased demand for healthcare services and the inadequate supply of physicians. Demand for healthcare is increasing due to the aging of the population, increases in chronic illness, and the COVID pandemic.

Based on current Wisconsin patient utilization and care delivery models, estimates suggest that there will be a shortage of over 3,000 physicians in all medical and surgical specialties by 2035, with an insufficient number of Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs) and PAs to fill the need. The PA profession was developed to provide a flexible workforce to address unmet healthcare needs and is anticipated to grow by 31% between 2020 and 2030.

The goal of the project is to increase the number and diversity of Physician Assistants/Associates (PAs) in Wisconsin through the development of an innovative PA Master of Science Program at the Medical College of Wisconsin. This program will provide entry-level training to PAs that can successfully provide high-quality, efficient care in a team setting to diverse communities in the full range of specialties in academic and community settings.