Physician Associate Law May Confuse Patients – BMA

The British Medical Association (BMA) has raised concerns about the impact of new legislation enabling physician associates to work in the healthcare sector. According to the BMA, the introduction of physician associates could potentially confuse patients as to the roles and responsibilities of different healthcare professionals.

Physician associates are a new type of healthcare professional who work under the supervision of a qualified doctor. They are able to perform certain tasks traditionally carried out by doctors, such as taking medical histories, conducting physical examinations, and providing treatment and advice to patients.

While the BMA acknowledges the potential benefits of physician associates in relieving pressures on the healthcare system, they have urged caution in their implementation. The BMA believes that patients may struggle to understand the distinction between physician associates and fully qualified doctors, leading to confusion and potential risks to patient safety.

The BMA has called for clear guidelines to be established regarding the roles and responsibilities of physician associates, as well as robust oversight to ensure patient safety. They have also emphasized the importance of clear communication with patients to avoid any misunderstandings about the qualifications and expertise of healthcare professionals.

Overall, the BMA has expressed reservations about the introduction of physician associates into the healthcare system, citing concerns about patient confusion and the potential impact on patient safety. They have called for careful consideration and clear guidelines to be put in place to address these issues.