Enhancing Critical Care: The Role and Impact of Physician Assistants in Medical and Surgical ICUs
November 6, 2025 from 10:00am MST to 10:50am MST
As healthcare systems face increasing demands and staffing challenges, integrating Physician Assistants (PAs) into medical and surgical Intensive Care Units (ICUs) offers a practical and innovative solution. This session will explore the expanding role of PAs in critical care, emphasizing how their involvement improves patient outcomes, reduces physician workload, and enhances interdisciplinary communication.
Drawing from clinical experience and published data, the presentation will outline the PA scope of practice in ICUs, including procedures, daily rounding, rapid response participation, and care coordination. Emphasis will be placed on the PA’s unique ability to serve as consistent providers, improving continuity of care and acting as vital communication links between nurses, attending physicians, consultants, and families.
Attendees will be presented with data demonstrating the value of PAs in critical care: increased provider productivity, reduced ICU length of stay, and improved patient and staff satisfaction.
The relevance of these findings to the Canadian PA landscape will be discussed, along with practical strategies for advocating for and implementing PA roles in ICUs across Canada.
This presentation is designed to be evidence-based, impactful, and directly applicable for Canadian PAs seeking to lead and innovate within acute care environments.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to:
- Describe the clinical scope and responsibilities of PA in medical and surgical ICU settings
- Evaluate the impact of PA integration on ICU workflow, physician workload, and interdisciplinary communication
- Interpret data supporting the value and outcomes associated with PA presence in critical care environments
Speakers / Panelists
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Enhancing Critical Care: The Role and Impact of Physician Assistants in Medical and Surgical ICUs
November 6, 2025 from 10:00am MST to 10:50am MST
Linda Abad
MPAS, PA-C
Linda Abad
Hi, I’m a Physician Assistant with over 7 years of experience in both emergency medicine and critical care. I’m currently pursuing my Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc), with a focus on advancing PA practice in acute care settings. I’m deeply passionate about PA education, mentorship, and advocacy, and I love being involved in efforts that elevate our profession and help shape its future. Whether it’s at the bedside or on a broader platform, I’m committed to making an impact through clinical excellence and professional leadership.