Exploring the impact of PA-specific doctoral degrees on professional identity

OBJECTIVE: To explore how completing a physician associate (PA)-specific doctoral degree influences PAs' professional identity and lived experience. METHODS: A qualitative phenomenological study involving 15 semi-structured interviews with PAs who earned a PA-specific doctoral degree between 2021 and 2023 was conducted. Transcripts were coded and analyzed thematically. Trustworthiness was supported through dual coding, member checking, and reflexivity. RESULTS: Participants reported minimal change to their core identity as clinicians and expressed uncertainty about what it means to be doctorally prepared, including hesitancy in using the title doctor. Although clinical duties were largely unaffected, participants described greater career clarity and a perception of expanded opportunities in leadership, education, and administration. CONCLUSION: Having a PA-specific doctoral degree demonstrated limited impact on professional identity with greater perceived benefit for career potential. Findings highlight the need for clearer degree socialization and intentional curricular design aligned with evolving individual and professional expectations.