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SF 2190

A bill for an act relating to the use of the titles physician assistant and physician associate.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa permits healthcare practitioners to use either "physician assistant" or "physician associate" titles interchangeably, standardizing professional terminology statewide.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · SF 2190

Legislative bill overview

SF 2190 authorizes the use of both "physician assistant" and "physician associate" as official job titles in Iowa for the same healthcare role. The bill passed both chambers with strong bipartisan support and addresses terminology standardization in the medical field.

Why is this important

This change reflects a nationwide shift in professional naming conventions—the national organization for these professionals changed its official terminology from "physician assistant" to "physician associate" in 2021 to better reflect their clinical role and education level. Allowing both titles in Iowa accommodates practitioners trained under different naming conventions and aligns state law with evolving professional standards.

Potential points of contention

  • Professional identity and autonomy: Some may view the terminology shift as an attempt by the profession to distinguish itself from physicians or claim greater independence, while others see it as overdue recognition of their expanded scope of practice
  • Consumer confusion: Allowing dual terminology could temporarily confuse patients about whether these practitioners are the same role, potentially requiring additional education efforts
  • Minimal regulatory burden: The bill appears to have minimal opposition (only 7 Senate "no" votes), suggesting broad agreement on this technical/administrative update rather than substantive clinical disagreement

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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