My First PA Week
Well, as we all know, it is officially PA week! October 6
th to the 12th, marks the annual celebration of physician assistants all over the country. Each year, PA week raises awareness to the public of the crucial role of the PA in our society. It also serves as a reminder to those of us who already know the importance of PAs firsthand what an immense difference PAs have made and are continuing to make in health care.
It's hard to believe that a little over 40 years ago, the first PA class, made up of only a handful of students, was just graduating. Although our profession is fairly new in comparison to other professions in health care, it's incredible to see how over the years, the profession has exploded in terms of its popularity and utility in our society. As we learn about the history of the profession in my class, I am realizing, more than ever, that the PA's role is so vital and constantly evolving to meet our country's needs. As I'm sure many who work in medicine would agree, it's hard to imagine the medical workforce today without them.
This week, I think it is important for all of us to take a step back and recognize the impact that PAs are making in our country each and every day. We must acknowledge those we know within the profession who are dedicating their lives to improving patient care. My hope for this week is that we all remember not just over the next few days, but every day, to show our continuing appreciation to those in this line of work who have made the profession what it is today! As a student, I know it's also important to be thankful to those who have inspired so many others to pursue this profession in their own lives.
Now that I'm in school, I am so proud to be even a small part of PA week, knowing that someday my classmates and I will be contributing to this magnificent line of work! Thank you, PAs!