Benefits of political activism: sunset revision of the Florida Medical Practice Act.

Abstract

Physician assistants need to recognize their ability to influence state legislators, to vigilantly review all legislation affecting the PA profession, and to lobby lawmakers whenever possible. Recent experience in Florida provides a good example of how PAs can effect change. The author retraces legislative and regulatory history of the PA profession in Florida, explaining why change in the Medical Practice Act was needed and how Florida's PAs took advantage of this political opportunity. Legislative response to the recommendations made by the Florida Academy of Physician Assistants is discussed, exploring effectiveness of the FAPA's strategy and providing a model for other states faced with similar legislative battles.