It is an exciting time to be a PA! Across the country, state PA organizations are making meaningful progress toward modernizing PA practice, improving access to care, and ensuring patients receive the high-quality healthcare they deserve. Connecticut has made important progress as well, but there is still work to do. I believe we have a real opportunity to continue advancing our profession while strengthening the collaborative relationships that make healthcare work. Our greatest successes will come by partnering with physicians, nurses, administrators, and every member of the healthcare team with one shared goal: providing the best possible care for our patients.
It is a tremendous honor to serve as President of the Connecticut Academy of Physician Associates. I am grateful for the opportunity to represent our profession over the coming year, and I look forward to working alongside our members as we continue building an even stronger future for PAs in Connecticut.
As someone who graduated PA school just five years ago, I recognize that I bring the perspective of a newer generation of PAs. I hope that perspective brings new ideas and fresh energy while building on the incredible work of the leaders who came before me. I am especially thankful to our outgoing President, Sheyla Marranca, for her leadership, mentorship, and dedication to ConnAPA over the past year, as well as the many past presidents and volunteers whose commitment has helped shape our Academy. I am also fortunate to be surrounded by an outstanding Board of Directors, and I am excited for everything we will accomplish together.
Looking ahead, I know there is important work to do. Whether we are advocating for our profession, supporting the next generation of PAs, or continuing to strengthen relationships with our healthcare partners, I am excited about what we can accomplish together. I believe our best days are ahead of us, and I look forward to helping lead ConnAPA through this next chapter.
As President, my commitment is simple: to listen, to advocate, and to be accessible. Whether you are a student, a new graduate, or a PA with decades of experience, I hope you will never hesitate to reach out with your ideas, concerns, or suggestions. We is strongest when our members are engaged, and I want every PA in Connecticut to know that your voice matters.
Finally, I encourage you to support ConnAPA in whatever way you can. If you are not yet a member, I invite you to join us. If you are already a member, consider becoming more involved, serving on a committee, attending an event, or encouraging a colleague to become a member. The work ahead will take all of us, but I am confident that, together, we can continue making Connecticut one of the best places in the country to practice as a PA and to care for our patients.
Best,
Nick Patino