Congressional Briefing Strengthening the Nation’s Health Workforce: The Critical Role of Title VII Investments

On March 24, from 12:00-1:00 p.m. ET, PAEA will sponsor a virtual briefing to educate congressional staff and stakeholders on how PA programs throughout the country are utilizing funding administered via the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to develop a well-trained, diverse health workforce. 

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the nation’s health workforce has faced unprecedented challenges. Long hours and high patient volumes have led to increased rates of burnout among clinicians, threatening to exacerbate already significant provider shortages, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Federal investments in health workforce development, commonly referred to as Title VII programs, are crucial to ensure the development of a high-quality provider workforce that is reflective of the communities it serves.  

During this briefing, a panel of experts in health professions education will discuss their Title VII awards; how federal funding supports curriculum development, clinical training opportunities, and student diversity; and the importance of increased funding to ensure communities have continued access to high-quality care. 

Speakers will include: 

• Kara Caruthers, MSPAS, PA-C – PAEA President; 
• Carolyn Bradley-Guidry, DrPH, MPAS, PA-C – Associate Professor for the UT Southwestern Medical Center PA program,Assistant Dean for Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity Affairs for UT Southwestern Medical Center, School of Health Professions, and former member of PAEA’s Government Relations Steering Committee; and 
• Nina Multak, PhD, MPAS, PA-C – Associate Dean and Randolph B. Mahoney Director of the University of Florida School of Physician Assistant Studies 

Faculty and students interested in attending are invited to register here.