Supporters argue this will improve access to care. But Michigan’s current PA written agreement model is already working. It provides flexibility for physician-led teams while ensuring appropriate oversight, collaboration, and accountability. It allows PAs to practice to the full extent of their training—while maintaining the physician involvement that protects patients when care becomes complex.

In other states that have expanded independent practice, the results have not delivered on the promises. Access challenges persist, health care costs continue to rise, and care often becomes more fragmented. Removing structured physician collaboration does not create more doctors, nor does it meaningfully expand specialty access in rural or underserved areas.

Michigan’s written agreement framework strikes the right balance:

• Flexibility for modern team-based practice
• Clear accountability for patient safety
• Collaborative decision-making when cases require advanced medical expertise

HB 5522 would replace a proven, collaborative system with a model that reduces physician involvement in patient care. At a time when health care is increasingly complex—especially for patients with chronic disease, multiple medications, or serious conditions—we should be strengthening team-based medicine, not weakening it.

Michigan patients deserve coordinated, physician-led care supported by skilled PAs—not policies that remove safeguards that are already working.

Tell lawmakers to vote NO on HB 5522. Maintain Michigan’s effective PA written agreement system and protect the team-based care patients rely on.