INFO FOR PATIENTS

Your voice matters. This bill will expand access to healthcare across Wisconsin — especially in rural and underserved areas — by allowing experienced physician associates (PAs) to provide care more independently. Patients and families are the most powerful advocates for change. Here’s how you can help:

• More Access to Care: Local clinics and practices can open in communities that struggle to attract physicians.
   
• Shorter Wait Times: Experienced PAs will be able to see more patients without unnecessary red tape.
   
• Affordable Care: By eliminating costly “collaborator fees,” small practices can stay open in more communities.
   
• Safe and Balanced: Only PAs with years of experience qualify for independence. New graduates still practice under collaboration or supervision.

1. Contact Your Legislators
    
   • Call, email, or write your state senator and representative.
      
   • Share how hard it can be to get timely care in your community.
      
   • Tell them you support the Wisconsin Access to Care Act because it will give patients more options, closer to home.
      
   • Find your legislators here: CONTACT LEGISLATOR
      

1. Share Your Story
    
   • Legislators listen most closely to real experiences from their constituents.
      
   • Explain if you’ve had trouble getting appointments, had to travel long distances, or faced delays in care.
      

1. Spread the Word
    
   • Talk with friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers.
      
   • Share posts from our campaign on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
      
   • Encourage others to reach out to their legislators, too.
      

1. Show Support Publicly
    
   • Attend town halls or community forums.
      
   • Write a letter to the editor of your local paper.
      
   • Add your name to our supporter list online.
      

This bill is about choice, safety, and access. It ensures experienced PAs can expand care where it’s needed most, while protecting patient safety with strict requirements. It eliminates decades of confusion over the word "assistant" by replacing it with "associate". It adds increased protections for patients by including PAs in the Injured Patient and Families Compensation Fund. It keeps Wisconsin from falling behind. 

💡 Your voice as a patient or family member is powerful. Together, we can make sure every Wisconsin community has access to quality care.