RCR statement on physician associates

Radiology and oncology rely on the skills and support of other professionals to provide the best patient care possible. While recognising that a multiprofessional team is hugely beneficial, it is imperative that training of doctors is not impacted by the introduction or evolution of new roles. 

Particular anxiety is emerging over physician associate roles although it is important to note that we estimate there are currently fewer than 10 physician associates working in radiology and fewer than 50 in clinical oncology. There are no plans to bring PAs into the College and we do not anticipate a significant expansion of the role within our specialties.

Doctors will always be vital leaders and providers of healthcare and multiprofessional teams cannot function without them. We must prioritise training opportunities for specialist trainees and ensure that trainers have the required dedicated time to supervise them. The training of other healthcare workers must not compromise the training of current or future doctors.

We have listened to our trainee representatives, special interest groups and others to help frame our role in protecting training opportunities and ensuring that we can deliver future consultants with the full breadth of experience, skills and knowledge necessary to lead departments. We are forming a task and finish group to issue guidance for Trusts about how to deliver and structure training opportunities so that the many valued healthcare professionals can work together within consultant-led departments to deliver the best possible patient care.