The state of maternal and infant health in the U.S. is increasingly worrisome. This can be attributed, in part, to a decline in the number of obstetrics and gynecology (Ob-Gyn) physicians and midwives — despite an increase in need for their services.

However, there’s hope as more PAs continue to play a role in shaping the future of women’s health in the field of Ob-Gyn.

In a recent study, titled “Demographics of Physician Associates (PAs) in Obstetrics and Gynecology: Where They Work and How They Compare to Other PAs,” published in Obstetrics and Gynecology International, the increasing presence of PAs practicing in Ob-Gyn could offset the decline in physicians and midwives.

The study, citing data gathered by NCCPA in 2021 via the comprehensive PA Professional Profile, found that a total of 1,322 PAs self-identified as practicing in the Ob-Gyn specialty, representing 1.2% of clinically active PAs. This is a significant increase from 2013, when only 792 PAs practiced in this specialty, reflecting a 66.9% growth. Notably, 98% are women with a median age of 38, reporting high productivity, with the majority seeing more than 40 patients per week. These PAs in Ob-Gyn primarily work in office and hospital settings and earn a median self-reported annual income of $105,000 as of 2021.

Previous studies had forecasted a 7% decrease in Ob-Gyn physicians by 2030 from 50,850 to 47,490. Simultaneously, the demand for Ob-Gyn services is expected to grow by 4%, reaching 52,660 by 2030. More than 10.1 million adult women live in counties lacking an Ob-Gyn physician.

Since 1967, PAs have held a presence and played a role in Ob-Gyn. PAs have also served as obstetrical laborists in the northeast, enhancing care quality and offsetting the demands on Ob-Gyn physicians. The study’s authors summarize that “The American PA movement is expanding and brings a needed corps of specialists in Ob-Gyn.”

Read the complete report here.