The organization now known as American Academy of PAs was originally named what?

• A. American College of Physicians
• B. American Association of Physician Assistants
• C. American Academy of Family Physicians
• D. American Surgical Association

Answer: (B)

This question tests knowledge of how the national PA organization evolved in name as the profession grew. It began as the American Association of Physician Assistants, a label that signaled a foundational professional group uniting PAs. Over time the organization shifted to emphasize education, standards, and professional advancement, becoming the American Academy of Physician Assistants, now commonly known as American Academy of PAs. This branding change reflects the move from a simple association to a body focused on Academy-style training, credentialing, and advocacy for the PA profession. The other organizations listed are real medical groups but are not related to the PA profession: one is an internal medicine college, another is a family medicine organization, and the last is a surgical association for surgeons.