In 2024, which state's law changed the title from 'physician assistants' to 'physician associates'?

• A. California
• B. New York
• C. Oregon
• D. Washington

Answer: (C)

Renaming the role to emphasize collaborative care and professional identity is what this item tests. In 2024 Oregon updated its statutes to replace the official title “physician assistant” with “physician associate” for licensed practitioners working under physician supervision. The change aims to reflect the broader, team-based nature of the role and to reduce the perception of the position as merely an assistant to a single physician. It aligns with efforts to standardize terminology and improve clarity for patients, insurers, and other healthcare teams, without necessarily altering the underlying scope of practice. The other states mentioned did not enact a similar renaming in 2024, which is why Oregon is the correct choice.