House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
The Independent Review of Physician Associates and Anaesthesia Associates in England
16 July 2025 · Department of Health and Social Care
Proposed by Wes Streeting Lab Ilford North
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The government accepts all 18 recommendations from Professor Gillian Leng CBE's review of physician associates and anaesthesia associates in England.
- Renaming roles and improving training and career development opportunities for the roles are part of the accepted recommendations.
- Immediate actions focus on changes that enhance patient safety, including the use of titles and protocols for undifferentiated patients.
Issue summary
The statement addresses the independent review of physician associates and anaesthesia associates in England and outlines the government's acceptance of recommendations made by Professor Gillian Leng CBE.
Action requested
The government is accepting all 18 recommendations, including renaming roles and improving training and career development opportunities. Immediate actions include implementing changes that directly affect patient safety, such as title use and protocols for undifferentiated patients.
Key facts
- Professor Gillian Leng CBE conducted an independent review.
- The government accepts the full set of 18 recommendations.
- Roles are to be renamed: 'physician associate' to 'physician assistant', 'anaesthesia associate' to 'physician assistant in anaesthesia'.
- New physician assistants must gain at least two years’ experience in secondary care before moving to primary care or mental health trusts.