From Frontier Medicine to the Future: 50 Years of PA Practice

What has changed over the past 50 years for Physician Associates—and what challenges remain?

In this episode of PA Playbook, Eileen Ravella sits down with a pioneer of the profession, Dr David Mittman a Physician Associate with five decades of clinical experience and a former President of the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA). Together we reflect on the remarkable evolution of the PA profession—from its early years to today’s expanding role in healthcare.

The conversation explores leadership, rural medicine, legislative progress, workforce shortages, changing educational standards, technology, and what the next generation of PAs can expect. Whether you’ve practiced for 30 years or are just entering the profession, this episode offers an inspiring look at where we’ve been and where we’re headed.

Host: Eileen Ravella, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA

Guest: Dr David Mittman, PA-C, Former President, American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA)