BMA Medical Associate Professions Survey Findings

This document is a survey report conducted by the British Medical Association (BMA) regarding Medical Associate Professions (MAPs). The survey aims to gather opinions and experiences from doctors and medical students in the UK about the roles and impacts of MAPs, particularly physician associates (PAs) and anaesthesia associates (AAs). The background highlights a significant shortage of healthcare professionals in the UK, leading to the introduction of MAPs to alleviate this issue. However, the report raises serious concerns regarding patient safety, with findings indicating that a large percentage of respondents believe MAPs are working beyond their competence. The survey results reveal that nearly 80% of respondents have contact with MAPs, and 87% express that the current employment of MAPs poses risks to patient safety. The report includes recommendations for reviewing MAP roles based on over 18,000 responses, emphasizing the need for better regulation and clarity in the scope of practice for MAPs.