Dear Colleagues,
As mentioned in our previous newsletter, ConnAPA’s mission this year is centered on unity. In 2025, we have a very special reason to celebrate: it marks the 50th anniversary of the Connecticut Academy of Physician Associates! I can think of no better way to continue our work of bringing together PAs across Connecticut than by celebrating this significant milestone. Over the course of the year, we will be incorporating this anniversary into all our upcoming events, with special emphasis on the annual Charter Oak Conference, which will be held from March 23-25, 2025. We hope you will join us for what promises to be a memorable year of celebrations and activities! Be sure to follow us on social media for all the latest updates.
I would also like to share some exciting updates from ConnAPA. As always, we are working diligently to serve as the collective voice of PAs across Connecticut. The legislative session has been in full swing for several months, and we have been meeting with state senators, representatives, and key legislators. One of our main focuses has been the PA Compact, which would allow PAs to practice across state lines without the need to obtain additional licenses in each state. Another critical initiative we are championing is the title change from “physician assistant” to “physician associate,” which more accurately reflects the work we do every day and aligns with the terminology used by national and state organizations.
I would like to take a moment to thank Jason Prevelige, our current AAPA president and dear friend and colleague, for his outstanding work on ConnAPA’s legislative committee. Jason has been a tireless advocate for PAs, addressing the challenges we face in today’s healthcare landscape, and we are incredibly grateful for his leadership and dedication to our profession.
In addition to our legislative efforts, ConnAPA has been actively engaged in addressing healthcare disparities through our newly formed Health Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee. As an organization, we recognize the significant barriers that exist within healthcare and the impact they have on patient care. This committee is focused on creating environments that foster belonging, eliminating discriminatory practices, and addressing social determinants of health to improve patient outcomes. We look forward to implementing the committee’s initiatives, which include offering CME opportunities centered on health equity, diversity, and inclusion to ensure that PAs are well-equipped to serve diverse communities.
Looking ahead, ConnAPA will be holding its 5-year Strategic Planning Session later this summer. Reflecting on the progress we have made since our last session five years ago, it is clear that our organization has grown tremendously. We have successfully met and surpassed many of the goals outlined in that plan, and we continue to evolve to better support PAs and advance the profession. Our work is always guided by one central mission: improving healthcare for our patients.
As always, please do not hesitate to reach out with any ideas, questions, or suggestions. We value your input and look forward to continuing our collective work to enhance the profession and the care we provide.
Best always,
Cayla Daniele, MHS, PA-C
President of the Connecticut Academy of PAs
Obstetrics and Gynecology, Griffin Hospital
Adjunct Professor, Quinnipiac University PA Program
“Growth is never by mere chance; it is the result of forces working together.”
-James Cash Penney