What is a notable reason why the PA profession was developed?

The development of the Physician Assistant (PA) profession was significantly influenced by the need to address shortages in primary care. In the mid-1960s, there was a growing recognition that the healthcare system was facing challenges, particularly in providing adequate access to primary care services. The increasing demand for healthcare, combined with a shortage of primary care physicians, highlighted the necessity for a new model of care that could provide effective and timely medical attention to patients.

The PA profession was designed to extend the capabilities of healthcare teams, allowing for better patient access to care without necessitating the creation of more doctors. By training PAs to perform various tasks under the supervision of a physician, the healthcare system could alleviate some of the burden on physicians and improve access to healthcare services, particularly in underserved areas. This collaborative approach not only helped address the shortage of primary care providers but also improved overall patient outcomes and satisfaction.