03/31/2026

Legislative Update: PA Title Change, Practice Modernization, and How You Can Help

The Ohio General Assembly remains active at the Statehouse while legislators prepare for the May 5 primary election.

Here’s the latest on OAPA’s advocacy work, and how YOU can make an impact.

Sustaining Momentum for PA Title Change

OAPA continues to push for PA Title Change at the Ohio Statehouse, recognizing that effective advocacy includes both highly visible engagement and more focused, behind-the-scenes work.

Last fall, we hosted Ohio PA Advocacy Day to educate legislators about the PA profession, discuss barriers to practice, and build support for HB 353. We also delivered proponent testimony for PA Title Change emphasizing the importance of title clarity for patients, while correcting misconceptions raised in opponent testimony. These public efforts helped elevate awareness and strengthen our collective voice.

Since then, our work has continued in more targeted ways. We have been engaging key legislators and stakeholders to address questions, build support, and identify a viable path forward for the initiative. While this phase is less visible, it is a critical part of the legislative process. OAPA remains committed to advancing PA Title Change and will continue leveraging every opportunity, both public and private, to this effect.

Ongoing discussions at the Statehouse, and continued opposition by well-funded physician groups, underscore the importance of sustained advocacy. Progress often takes time, particularly when there are differing perspectives and organized opposition. These dynamics are not uncommon, but they reinforce how essential continued engagement is. 

*How YOU Can Make an Impact*

OAPA maintains a dedicated resource page on the PA Title Change effort, featuring helpful videos, a one-pager, and clear talking points that address common questions and opposition perspectives. These resources are designed to help Ohio PAs and students understand what PA Title Change means for their current practice or future role in the profession. Equipped with this information, members can confidently share their perspectives with their local legislators.

When you are ready to help us show state lawmakers that PAs are a critical part of the Ohio healthcare landscape, please:

• Compose a short, personal, friendly email as a PA encouraging support for PA Title Change generally (and, specifically, HB 353)
• Send the message to your lawmakers
  • Search for your State Representative and their contact information here
  • Search for your State Senator and their contact information here 

Advancing PA Practice Modernization

Every practicing PA in Ohio understands that there is opportunity to further strengthen healthcare team performance. PAs are master’s-educated, nationally-certified, and state-licensed medical professionals who conduct physical exams, order and interpret tests, diagnose illnesses, initiate treatment plans, prescribe medications, assist in surgery, and more. PAs help reduce wait times, expand access to care, and improve cost-effectiveness for patients and the healthcare system.

Over many years of engagement with members and by collecting firsthand accounts of practice challenges, OAPA has developed a robust set of legislative priorities. We are actively working to advance policies that remove unnecessary barriers and enable Ohio PAs to practice to the full extent of their education and training, working collectively with physicians, APRNs, and other healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality patient care. While this legislative effort is in development and not yet ready for the spotlight, there are meaningful ways to get involved now and help build a strong foundation for future progress.

*How YOU Can Make an Impact*

Data and policy language matter, but stories are what lawmakers remember. Sharing how PA practice laws affect your patients, your team, or your ability to provide care on this "share your story" form helps OAPA to put a human face on complex legislative issues. Giving thought to, and documenting, your experiences as a PA will help prepare you for future conversations with legislators when the time is right.

Further, consider how you can help expand our advocacy network:

• Are there physician colleagues in your organization who value PA contributions and would be willing to speak in support of PA initiatives?
• Do you have a relationship with an Ohio legislator, either in your district or elsewhere, with whom you would feel comfortable sharing information about the PA profession?
• Would you be interested in hosting a lawmaker at your workplace or PA program?
• Are there connections to other associations or industry groups that could present opportunities for collaboration with OAPA?

If the answer is "yes" to any of these, please reach out to us at oapa@ohiopa.com for next steps.

Civic Engagement in an Election Year

The Ohio General Assembly operates on a two-year session cycle, with 17 of the 33 Senate seats and all 99 House seats on the ballot in 2026. Even in reliably Republican or Democratic districts, many incumbents are expected to face primary challengers in May ahead of the November general election.

While legislative activity has been robust in recent months, with numerous bill introductions, committee hearings, and floor votes, attention will soon shift toward the primaries and the summer recess, a critical period for in-district campaigning.

Although state-level developments may receive less attention than the national news out of Washington, D.C., the decisions made in Columbus have a direct and lasting impact on the daily work of PAs across Ohio. The perspectives, priorities, and actions of state Senators and Representatives ultimately shape the policies that govern PA practice.

*How YOU Can Make an Impact*

Many people prefer to stay out of politics, but when the future of our profession is at stake, engagement matters. If you are not already registered to vote, now is the time to take that step. Start your journey as a new voter here.

It is also important to know who represents you—one State Senator and one State Representative. Take time to learn about their committee assignments, the legislation they sponsor, and how they vote on issues that affect you personally and professionally. If they host a local town hall or community event, consider attending.

You may also encounter candidates at local events such as festivals, fundraisers, or other gatherings in your area. These moments can be valuable opportunities to introduce yourself, thank them for their service or willingness to serve, and briefly share your perspective as a PA and constituent.

State legislators play a significant role in shaping policy, but they are also accessible public servants who rely on input from the people they represent. However you choose to engage, finding a way to participate in the civic process is both meaningful and impactful.

The takeaway is this:

OAPA works tirelessly, both publicly and behind the scenes, to advance the interests of Ohio PAs, but our efforts are strongest when individuals step in to bring them to life. Your voice, your stories, and your engagement make a difference. Own your profession, and take action to help shape its future.

Matthew Freado, MBA, PA-C, is the Government Affairs Committee Chair of the Ohio Association of Physician Assistants.

The Government Affairs Committee supports the profession through advancing PA legislative priorities and removing barriers to practice. Please consider providing financial support to advance PA advocacy via the OAPA Legislative Fund or OAPA Political Action Committee.

Please note that contributions to any OAPA funds are not tax-deductible. Also, per Ohio law, OAPA PAC contributions may only be accepted from OAPA members who are United States citizens.