The Medical Council stated that they are not the appropriate body to regulate physician associates (PAs), emphasizing that PAs should not be viewed as substitutes for doctors. They highlighted concerns about patient safety, professional responsibilities, and the need for clarification on the scope of practice for PAs. The RCSI, which oversees PA training, supports the regulation of PAs by the Medical Council. The Irish Hospital Consultants Association also welcomed this position, emphasizing the need for a structured approach to define the PA role and calling for them to be renamed as ‘physician assistants’. The position paper can be accessed for further details.
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