[Physician Assistants in Gastroenterology Departments in Germany: Results of a Nationwide Survey of Senior Physicians and Physician Assistants].

INTRODUCTION

Although the Physician Assistant (PA) profession has existed in Germany since 2005 and is well established internationally, little is known about PAs in gastroenterology. This study aimed to provide an overview of the current situation of PAs in gastroenterology in Germany.

METHODS

An online survey was conducted among senior gastroenterologists and PAs working at gastroenterology departments in Germany.

RESULTS

Most physicians were familiar with the PA profession and considered it a valuable addition to the existing team. Nevertheless, only 38.1% of respondents employed PAs. The main reasons for not employing PAs were reservations regarding the profession (28.9%) and financial constraints (31.6%).

RESULTS

The professional knowledge (73.9%) and quality of work (91.3%) of PAs were rated as good or very good. According to respondents, PAs contributed to reducing physicians' workload (78,3 %) and improving patient satisfaction (54.2%).

RESULTS

Most PAs worked full-time (90.9%), earned a gross monthly salary of ≥ €4,000 (77.3%), and could envision working in an outpatient practice setting in the future.

RESULTS

PA positions were predominantly funded through physician staffing budgets (73.9%).

RESULTS

Independent performance of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy by PAs was largely rejected by physicians.

CONCLUSION

PAs are currently employed at only a minority of gastroenterology departments in Germany. Despite broad recognition of their professional competence, financial and structural barriers limit their wider implementation.