AUSTIN, Texas — Goodside Health is honored to celebrate National Physician Associate Week. Observed annually from October 6 – 12, it serves as a time to shine a spotlight on the important role Physician Associates (PA) play in the medical profession. PAs are medical professionals who are trained to provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services. They work in partnership with physicians and other health care providers to deliver quality patient care.

On May 24, 2021, the official title “physician assistant” was changed to “physician associate” by the American Academy of Physician Associates’ House of Delegates following a vote by its membership. Acknowledging the title change is a great undertaking requiring a longer transition time, both are terms currently acceptable by those in the field.

At Goodside Health, we are proud to stand behind our PAs in the vital services they provide. PAs play a critical role in children’s healthcare, serving on the front lines in primary care, urgent care, and rural and underserved communities. They are often the first point of contact for families and play a key role in coordinating care for their patients.

Thank you to every PA across our SchoolMed, Urgent Care for Kids Clinics, and corporate teams for everything you do to keep our communities safe and healthy.

We are especially grateful for their commitment to closing the gaps in children’s healthcare.

This week, and every week, we encourage you to take the time to say “Thank You!” to a PA. Goodside Health thanks our PAs, and PAs, everywhere for everything you do to serve our communities!