MMA Opposes Title Change for Physician Assistants

March 5, 2026

The MMA submitted a letter opposing SF 1084 (Kupec, DFL – Moorhead), which would change the statutory title of “physician assistant” to “physician associate.” The bill was heard in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on March 4. 

The MMA believes that while physician assistants are valued members of physician-led care teams, changing their title raises significant concerns about patient understanding, transparency, and the integrity of Minnesota’s healthcare system.  

In its letter, the MMA argued that the term “associate” could suggest equivalency rather than collaboration under physician supervision, potentially misleading patients about credentials and scope of practice. 

The MMA’s position aligns with the AMA, which has cautioned that such changes could confuse patients and undermine transparency. Minnesota’s longstanding commitment to collaborative, physician-led care models prioritizes patient safety and quality outcomes. 

The bill was later held over for possible inclusion in a future omnibus bill. Its House companion, HF 88 (Reyer, DFL – Eagan), has yet to be heard in committee.