11/17/2024

OAPA Selects New Lobbying Firm

The Ohio Association of Physician Assistants (OAPA) is proud to announce that Hicks Partners, a multidisciplinary organization with expertise in government affairs, public relations, and more, has been selected to serve as OAPA’s new lobbyist effective January 1, 2025.

Earlier this year, the OAPA Board of Directors reviewed the organization's legislative history and operations and agreed that it has the fiduciary duty to periodically evaluate OAPA's lobbying arrangement. In July 2024, OAPA launched a lobbyist search process, managed by the Government Affairs Committee. Proposals were received from 10 prospective lobbyists. After thorough review of all proposals and several rounds of interviews, Hicks Partners emerged as the best choice for helping OAPA achieve its legislative goals.

“Brian Hicks and his knowledgeable team display a deep interest and experience in helping organizations like OAPA to advance healthcare in Ohio. We look forward to collaborating with Hicks Partners to define our priorities for the incoming 136th Ohio General Assembly and to execute on our legislative plans to improve the PA practice landscape in Ohio,” said OAPA President Nathan Hart.

Hicks Partners will support OAPA’s government affairs work though developing, monitoring, and supporting legislation that impacts PAs, building and growing relationships with legislators who understand the value that PAs bring to Ohio’s healthcare workforce, and collaborating with OAPA leaders, members, and other stakeholders to promote quality, cost-effective, and accessible health care for patients.

The transition to Hicks Partners in 2025 concludes OAPA’s longstanding lobbying relationship with Bricker Graydon LLP, formerly Bricker and Eckler. The OAPA Board of Directors and Government Affairs Committee extends appreciation to the Bricker Graydon team for their many years of support and advocacy on behalf of Ohio PAs. It is anticipated that OAPA will continue to turn to Bricker Graydon for legal counsel on organizational and PA practice matters that are not directly related to lobbying and government affairs advocacy.

OAPA members, and all Ohio PAs, are encouraged to stay informed about legislative matters impacting PAs by monitoring the OAPA website. And, to further help OAPA advance PA practice through government advocacy, please support the OAPA Legislative Fund!