Seven states have adopted legislation to enact the PA Licensure Compact, meaning the model is now activated, the American Academy of Physician Associates said April 5.
Virginia became the seventh state to join the compact April 4. West Virginia, Washington and Nebraska also joined the compact this year, while Delaware, Utah and Wisconsin enacted it in 2023. PA compact model legislation is also pending in 11 states.
The interstate licensure compact will make it easier for PAs to practice in multiple states. Once activated, it will take 18 to 24 months to operationalize the compact, according to AAPA.
"The speed at which states enacted the PA Compact underscores the need for greater efficiency in healthcare delivery as well as the demand for PAs," Folusho Ogunfiditimi, president and chair of the board for AAPA, said in an April 5 news release. "This is truly a landmark accomplishment for PAs and their patients across the country. The ability to practice across state lines without requiring multiple licenses will be fundamental in ensuring PAs are never hampered from serving where they are needed."