AAPA Advocacy Team Prepares for Potential Shifts in Healthcare Policy Following 2024 Election

AAPA Advocacy Team Prepares for Potential Shifts in Healthcare Policy Following 2024 Election

November 8, 2024

By Chantell Taylor

With the 2024 general election now concluded, the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) is gearing up for anticipated changes in political leadership and potential impacts on healthcare policy. The AAPA Advocacy and Public Affairs team is actively preparing for the implications at both state and federal levels.

A new presidential administration is set to take office in January 2025, bringing new agency heads and policy priorities. Additionally, the U.S. Senate will see a shift in control come January, leading to likely changes in the leadership and composition of key committees. The U.S. House of Representatives could experience similar adjustments, pending the final results of the election. At the state level, the political landscape will also shift; at least 11 states have elected new governors and legislatures will usher in new leadership.

To prepare for these changes, AAPA's Advocacy team has been collaborating with its federal lobbying partners to navigate the upcoming legislative and administrative adjustments. In the weeks and months ahead, the focus will be on reinforcing and strengthening existing relationships at the state and federal levels, connecting with new legislators, and continuing our work to educate policymakers about the PA profession and the essential role PAs play in our nation's healthcare system.

AAPA's core legislative agenda remains unchanged. Key priorities include promoting equitable reimbursement and payment policies; changing the profession's title to physician associate; and modernizing PA practice laws to remove arbitrary, outdated practice barriers that continue to obstruct our shared goal of expanding access to care and addressing health equity for our patients.

To advance these priorities, member engagement in advocacy efforts will be critical. PAs and supporters are urged to join AAPA, participate in state or federal service chapters, and engage in legislative actions at the state level. AAPA offers numerous resources for those looking to get involved, including advocacy training, conferences, and grassroots initiatives. Members with questions or interest in getting more engaged can contact the team at [email protected].

The AAPA Advocacy and Public Affairs team is committed to advancing the PA profession and advocating for better healthcare access for patients and communities.

Chantell Taylor is AAPA's Chief of Public Affairs and Advocacy.

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