American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPAs)

Founded in 1968, the American Academy of Physician Assistants is the national professional society for physician assistants. It represents a profession of more than 100,000 certified PAs across all medical and surgical specialties in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the majority of the U.S. territories and the uniformed services.

AAPA advocates and educates on behalf of the profession and the patients PAs serve. They work to ensure the professional growth, personal excellence, and recognition of physician assistants. They also enhance their ability to improve the quality, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness of patient-centered healthcare.

AAPA is a member-driven organization with many stakeholders participating in the governance structure. Each leadership group – from individual members to the Board of Directors – plays a different role but shares responsibility for ensuring AAPA remains strong, relevant and responsive to the needs of the PA community.

Mission:
AAPA empowers members to advance the profession and elevate healthcare.

Vision:
PAs transforming and leading healthcare through compassionate, equitable, and patient-centered care.

values:
Leadership, excellence, advocacy, compassion, and equity form the foundation of AAPA’s core values.