The Texas Physician Assistant Board joins the nation in celebrating National PA Week — celebrated annually from October 6–12 — recognizing the thousands of physician assistants (PAs) who serve in clinics, hospitals, rural health centers, and emergency rooms across the state. These highly trained medical professionals engage with 11.4 million patients weekly, accounting for over 590 million visits annually. National PA Week not only commemorates the profession’s founding on October 6, 1967, but also raises awareness of the critical role PAs play in expanding access to care, especially in underserved communities.
In recognition of PA Week, Texas Physician Assistant Board Presiding Officer Karrie Lynn Crosby, PA-C, MPAS, shared the following message:
“On behalf of our entire Board, I extend heartfelt appreciation to the more than 14,000 licensed physician assistants serving on the front lines of patient care every day in communities across our great state. PA Week is a special opportunity to recognize and celebrate the vital contributions of PAs to the Texas healthcare system.
“PAs in Texas have been instrumental in addressing healthcare shortages and ensuring our fellow Texans have access to quality medical care. Their commitment, expertise, and collaborative spirit make them an integral part of the healthcare team across all specialties and settings, including our rural and underserved communities.
“The PA profession has seen tremendous growth, both statewide and nationally, with nearly 190,000 licensed physician assistants in the United States today — a number that continues to rise in response to the evolving needs of healthcare. In response to this increased demand, there are currently 318 accredited Physician Assistant programs in Texas, with an anticipated increase to 360 by March 2026.
“As we celebrate PA Week, and every day throughout the year, we are deeply grateful for the compassion, dedication, and service that Texas PAs provide. Thank you for all that you do.”