Letter from President and Update on Measures to Sustain the Organization
Posted 5 months ago by Amy Baird
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Season's Greetings!
As we celebrate the joyous holiday season, I am filled with gratitude and warmth, reflecting on the incredible association we've built within the Utah Academy of Physician Assistants. During this festive time, I extend my heartfelt wishes to each and every one of you. May the magic of Christmas bring you moments of love, laughter, and cherished memories with your loved ones. May the spirit of the season inspire kindness, generosity, and goodwill in our hearts, creating a ripple effect of positivity that reaches far beyond our immediate circles.
In the spirit of reflection, let's acknowledge the incredible milestone we've reached as an academy.
The passing of Senate bills 27 and 28 during the 2022 legislature was an incredible endeavor allowing Utah to be the first state chapter to legislate the process of independent practice for Physician Assistants. This iconic milestone could not have been reached without months of planning and hours of effort by previous Presidents, board members, and the dedication and legislative prowess of our Chief Executive Officer Stan Lockhart. Legislation of this magnitude also was not achieved without monetary costs as well. Surprisingly I heard a Physician Assistant say that they thought our state legislative changes were because of the efforts of the American Academy of Physician Assistants. Fact check: the physical and financial encumbrance of progress at the state level falls upon the state chapter. As a coattail to the mentioned Senate bills we have introduced legislation this year to harmonize the Utah code to reflect the changes made by their passage.
Like everyone, our organization is not immune to inflation and economic shifts. In order to sustain our organizational platform and legislative agility we need to increase our revenue.
During the December 2, 2023 board meeting options of increasing chapter revenue were discussed. I would like to present these to the membership at this time.
- Increase in Membership dues. The UAPA has not increased membership dues in over 10 years. After reviewing membership dues of neighboring states. I proposed and the board approved a yearly dues increase to $150. A 2-year membership will be reduced to $250 ($125/year). THIS DUES INCREASE WILL TAKE EFFECT ON JANUARY 1, 2024.
- Increase our academy membership. As of December 2, 2023 we have 107 chapter members in the state. NCCPA records show there are 2007 certified PA’s working in the state of Utah. Your ability to practice in the state of Utah is because of what UAPA has done and will continue to do. If you are not a member, join. If you are a member, encourage a fellow PA to join.
- Conferences if done correctly can be a great revenue source. We currently offer the Red Rock CME during the month of March in St. George. This is a primary care-oriented conference. The board is committed to having the academy host a specialty conference as well this will be geared toward our specialty PAs. Our 2024 conference is in the early planning phase. Consider this a call to the specialty PAs to become involved in planning the conference geared to you.
As we approach the coming year, let's carry the camaraderie forged within UAPA into new endeavors. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact, supporting our fellow PAs and our academy.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas filled with love, peace, and joy. May the holiday season rejuvenate your spirits and bring you closer to the ones you hold dear.
With gratitude and warmest regards,
Alan N. Bybee MPA PA-C
President
