Laurel Health Advisors, American Academy of Physician Associates Announce Contract to Study the Role of PAs in Enhancing Healthcare Accessibility and Equity

Laurel Health Advisors, American Academy of Physician Associates Announce Contract to Study the Role of PAs in Enhancing Healthcare Accessibility and Equity

LAUREL, Md. (Nov. 21, 2024) - Today, Laurel Health Advisors announced its contract, awarded by the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA), to conduct a groundbreaking study evaluating how physician associates/assistants (PAs) contribute to improving healthcare accessibility and equity across the United States. The study will focus on underserved rural and urban areas with limited access to medical care.

This research will leverage medical claims data to examine PAs' impact on healthcare delivery and patient outcomes in various geographic regions. By analyzing patterns of PA-led care, the study aims to identify how PAs enhance access to healthcare and address disparities in care availability, particularly in areas where medical resources are scarce.

"We are honored to work with the AAPA on this important study," said Dr. Yael Harris, Chief Executive Officer at Laurel Health Advisors. "PAs are critical in bridging healthcare gaps, especially in underserved communities. This study will provide essential data to inform healthcare policies and optimize the deployment of PAs to ensure more equitable healthcare access nationwide."

The study will utilize advanced statistical methods, including spatial data analysis and geographic information systems (GIS), to classify healthcare accessibility metrics based on rural and urban settings. The findings are expected to offer significant insights for healthcare policymakers, administrators, and organizations striving to improve healthcare equity and optimize resource distribution.

"This research will provide crucial insights into the indispensable role of PAs in improving access to healthcare, and we are thrilled to partner with Laurel Health Advisors on this initiative," Noël Smith, Senior Director, PA and Industry Research & Analysis, said. "The study will shed light on PAs' contributions to the healthcare system and empower the profession to continue providing essential care to underserved communities across the nation."

Laurel Health Advisors anticipates completing the study within 8 to 10 weeks, with results contributing to strategies that aim to elevate the role of PAs in delivering quality care to all populations.

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Media Contacts:

Laurel Health Advisors: Jason Goldwater, 301-529-4245

AAPA: Jenni Roberson, 703.380.2764

About Laurel Health Advisors

Laurel Health Advisors is a strategic consulting firm specializing in public health, healthcare, and community development initiatives. Focusing on data analytics, program evaluation, and stakeholder engagement helps organizations and governments create meaningful change in their communities.

About the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA)

AAPA is the national membership organization for all PAs (physician associates/physician assistants). PAs are licensed clinicians who practice medicine in every specialty and setting. Trusted, rigorously educated and trained healthcare professionals, PAs are dedicated to expanding access to care and transforming health and wellness through patient-centered, team-based medical practice. PA has been named one of the best jobs overall and one of the best healthcare jobs for the sixth year in a row by U.S. News & World Report. The PA profession ranked number three this year in Best STEM jobs. Learn more about the profession at aapa.org and engage through Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter.

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