The Evolving Role of Physician Assistants in Multidisciplinary Healthcare Teams: A Focus on Interprofessional Collaboration in ICUs

Abstract

Critical care environments are increasingly challenged by rising patient acuity, workforce shortages, and the growing need for coordinated, team-based care. This review synthesizes evidence from various complementary studies examining: (1) interprofessional collaboration (IPC) challenges in South African intensive care units (ICUs), (2) the integration and impact of physician assistants (PAs) across diverse Canadian clinical settings, and (3) national workforce trends of PAs in United States critical care medicine. The findings reveal persistent organizational and system-level constraints—including staffing deficits, communication gaps, hierarchical barriers, and role ambiguity—that hinder effective collaboration. Evidence from Canada demonstrates that well-integrated PAs enhance workflow efficiency, continuity of care, and patient access, while U.S. data highlight a rapidly expanding PA critical care workforce with increasing postgraduate training, high job satisfaction, and substantial contributions to ICU operations. Collectively, the studies underscore the importance of structured IPC, comprehensive specialty preparation, and supportive organizational environments in strengthening ICU performance. Addressing burnout, improving role clarity, and expanding training opportunities remain essential for building a resilient and sustainable critical care workforce capable of meeting growing global demands.