Every year from October 6–12, we celebrate National PA Week, a time to recognize the more than 200,000 Physician Assistants (PAs) who provide care to patients across the country. In 2025 alone, the PA workforce grew to 201,038, and PAs now have approximately 12 million patient interactions every week.
PA Week is an opportunity to recognize the critical role PAs play in delivering patient care and helping healthcare organizations meet evolving workforce demands. PAs practice in every medical specialty and setting, helping expand access to care and meet the needs of patients and communities nationwide.
The Growing Impact of PAs
As healthcare organizations continue to navigate provider shortages and growing patient demand, PAs have become an increasingly important part of the care team. Their versatility makes them a valuable resource for healthcare organizations working to maintain coverage, support patient access, and address workforce gaps.
PAs also play an important role in rural and underserved communities, where healthcare workforce shortages can make access to care more challenging. Their ability to work across specialties and settings helps hospitals and healthcare centers maintain continuity of care.
The PA Licensure Compact Is Expanding Mobility
One of the most significant developments for the profession is the PA Licensure Compact, which is designed to make it easier for eligible PAs to practice across state lines. As of 2026, 29 states have enacted the Compact, representing more than half of the country.
When compact privileges become available, eligible PAs will be able to practice in participating states without navigating a separate licensing process for each state. Increased licensure portability may also create additional opportunities for PAs interested in locum tenens assignments.
Locum Tenens for Physician Assistants
Locum tenens allows PAs to step into temporary assignments when hospitals, medical groups, and other healthcare organizations need additional coverage. Whether filling a short-term vacancy, addressing staffing shortages, supporting a growing practice, or helping maintain coverage during a transition, locum tenens PAs help facilities continue providing care when and where it is needed.
For PAs, locums can provide the flexibility to explore different practice settings, work in new communities, and build a schedule around their personal and professional goals.
At Hayes Locums, we’re proud to partner with PAs and facilities to help ensure patients continue receiving quality care.
