On behalf of the Consultant Specialists of British Columbia, I am writing to express support for the integration of Physician Assistants (PAs) into our healthcare system. We acknowledge the advocacy work of the Canadian Association of Physician Assistants (CAPA) and recognize the potential of PAs within a Specialist Physician-led, team-based model of Speciality Care.

In the current environment of significant access challenges, PAs may offer a practical means of expanding the capacity of existing Specialists by improving efficiency and increasing patient throughput. We support enabling Specialists who wish to hire PAs to do so within an appropriate regulatory framework.

Consistent with the Doctors of BC position, PA’s need regulatory oversight, appropriate liability coverage, sustainable funding, and defined Physician supervision.

We also emphasize that PAs should add to, not replace, Physician capacity. Specialists are best positioned to determine where Physician extenders can enhance Speciality Care and where additional Physician resources remain necessary.

Sincerely, 

Dr. Robert Carruthers 

President of the Consultant Specialists of BC