DAVENPORT, IOWA (May 1, 2026) — St Ambrose University is aligning its Physician Associate (PA) program with a growing national movement to modernize the profession’s title from “physician assistant” to “physician associate,” reflecting the evolving role of these highly trained health-care providers.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed legislation this month updating Iowa statute to recognize “physician associate” as the official title, making Iowa one of the first states in the nation to adopt the change. The law goes into effect on July 1, 2026.
The shift is part of a broader effort led by the American Academy of Physician Associates and state organizations, including the Iowa PA Society, to better reflect the responsibilities and clinical expertise of the profession. Health-care delivery continues to evolve, and the updated title more accurately represents the collaborative, patient-centered role PAs play in diagnosing, treating, and managing care.
“Modernizing the professional title acknowledges how the role of PAs has evolved and affirms the advanced training and responsibility our students assume from day one of practice,” said Suzanne Peppers DMSc MMS PA-C, program director, Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program. “It reinforces our commitment to preparing graduates who are ready to meet the changing needs of patients and healthcare systems.”
St Ambrose University’s PA program is recognized for its strong outcomes and commitment to preparing practice-ready graduates. Students benefit from hands-on clinical experiences, faculty mentorship, and strong placement into healthcare roles across the region and beyond.
“This title change reflects what PA education has prepared graduates to do for decades: practice medicine collaboratively, assume significant clinical responsibility, and deliver high‑quality care across every setting,” said Katrina Browning DNP RN CNE, interim dean, College of Health and Human Services. “Physician associate is an accurate, modern title that aligns with the education, training, and trust placed in our graduates by patients and health-care systems.”
The title modernization does not change the scope of practice or responsibilities of PAs but instead provides greater clarity for patients and healthcare systems about the role these professionals play in delivering high-quality care.
As more states and institutions adopt the updated title, St Ambrose University remains committed to preparing graduates who are ready to lead and serve in a rapidly-changing health-care environment. For more information about the Physician Assistant (Physician Associate) program at St Ambrose University, visit www.sau.edu.
About St Ambrose University
Founded in 1882 by the Diocese of Davenport, St Ambrose University’s commitment to academic excellence, the liberal arts, social justice, and service is rooted in its Catholic intellectual tradition. The leading, private university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers more than fifty undergraduate and graduate programs. One-hundred and forty years since its inception, St Ambrose education remains centered on intentional, holistic, and experiential learning, with a vision to be a vibrant, sustainable, and learner-focused model for Catholic higher education, preparing individuals from all walks of life to lead lives characterized by our core values of courage, wisdom, justice, and service. To learn more about St. Ambrose University, visit sau.edu.
