Why It’s an Exciting Time to Be a Physician Associate in Iowa: 3 Major Legislative Successes

It is an exciting time to be a practicing Physician Associate (PA), or training to become one, in the state of Iowa. Over the last several years, the Iowa Physician Associate Society (IPAS) has worked to champion legislation that allows PAs to utilize their education and training to meet Iowa’s evolving healthcare needs.

As licensed clinicians who practice in every specialty and clinical setting, PAs are important members of healthcare teams, providing high-quality, patient-centered care. Recent legislative changes in Iowa have modernized the profession in three significant ways, addressing administrative barriers and supporting access to care.

1. Title Change to Physician Associate

On July 1, 2026, Iowa’s legislation changing the professional title from Physician Assistant to Physician Associate took effect. Iowa law now recognizes “physician assistant,” “physician associate,” and “P.A.” as synonymous terms for the same licensed profession.

The title modernization reflects the education, clinical training and responsibilities of PAs within today’s healthcare teams. It also provides an opportunity to help patients and other healthcare professionals better understand the role PAs play in delivering medical care.

Importantly, the title change does not change a PA’s scope of practice, licensure requirements, certification requirements, prescribing authority, reimbursement eligibility or patient care responsibilities.

2. Joining the PA Licensure Compact

Iowa has also joined the PA Licensure Compact, an interstate agreement designed to streamline the process for eligible PAs to obtain authorization to practice in participating states.

Traditionally, PAs seeking to practice in multiple states may need to complete separate licensure processes through each state. The compact is designed to reduce that administrative burden and improve license portability, which can be especially useful for PAs who work across state lines or provide telemedicine services.

Iowa joined a growing group of states participating in the compact, including neighboring states such as Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota, Nebraska, Wisconsin and Kansas. As of August 2026, 29 states had enacted the compact.

The compact has been activated, but PAs cannot yet apply for compact privileges. The PA Compact Commission is continuing the work needed to fully operationalize the system, with applications expected to become available in 2027.

Once operational, the compact is expected to make it easier for eligible PAs to obtain authorization to practice in multiple member states, helping support workforce mobility and access to care.

3. Advancing Optimal Team Practice

Iowa is also moving toward Optimal Team Practice (OTP), a model focused on reducing unnecessary administrative barriers while supporting collaboration among PAs, physicians and other healthcare professionals.

According to the Iowa Physician Associate Society, OTP includes three key components: eliminating requirements for a specific relationship between a PA and another healthcare provider, establishing appropriate PA representation in professional regulation, and authorizing direct reimbursement for PAs by public and private payers.

For Iowa’s healthcare workforce, these changes can provide greater flexibility in how healthcare teams are structured while maintaining a collaborative, patient-centered approach to care. They may be particularly meaningful for rural and underserved communities where expanding access to qualified healthcare providers is an ongoing priority.

These changes do not mean PAs practice without collaboration or according to an unlimited scope of practice. A PA’s practice continues to be shaped by the laws and regulations of the state in which they practice, as well as their education, training and experience.

A Perspective From Northwestern’s PA Program

These changes are particularly meaningful to Jill Van Otterloo, program director of Northwestern College’s Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program.

Van Otterloo has served as program director since 2022, after previously serving as associate director and professor of practice for the program. She earned her B.S. in biology with a minor in psychology from Iowa State University and her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Des Moines University.

Before joining Northwestern, Van Otterloo practiced family medicine at Mercy Family Clinic in Forest City, Iowa and at Sioux Center Health. She now brings both her clinical experience and experience as an educator to her work with Northwestern’s PA students.

Her experience in both clinical practice and PA education gives her a firsthand perspective on how changes in Iowa’s healthcare landscape can affect both current practitioners and the next generation of PAs.

Alignment With the Mission of the Northwestern College PA Program

These legislative milestones closely align with the mission of the Northwestern College PA Program.

As Christian healthcare providers, Northwestern PA students are called to provide compassionate, empathetic and holistic care, tending to the physical, mental, social and spiritual needs of every patient.

Northwestern College is committed to preparing graduates to serve patients with excellence and integrity, with particular emphasis on rural and underserved communities.

As Iowa continues to modernize its PA practice environment, Northwestern graduates will enter a profession that is evolving to meet the healthcare needs of communities across the state.

For students considering a career as a Physician Associate, these changes provide an important look at the direction of the profession in Iowa—and the opportunities ahead.

There is an exciting future for Physician Associates in Iowa, and Northwestern College is preparing students to be part of it.

Resources

https://www.iapasociety.org/pa-compact

https://www.aapa.org/news-central/2026/04/iowa-marks-major-milestone-with-passage-of-title-change-legislation/

https://www.aapa.org/advocacy-central/pa-licensure-compact/

https://www.aapa.org/advocacy-central/pa-practice-modernization/

https://www.iapasociety.org/optimal-team-practice

0 Comments

Infectious Passion on Display at State History Day Contest

There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing kids excited about history.

This spring, I attended the State History Day competition in Ames, Iowa. As a judge, I had the privilege of hearing middle school and high school students share their passion for history. The judges talk with students about their projects in an interview style. Many students are a bit nervous, but it doesn’t take long to get them to share what interested them about their project. We heard about the history of Pacman and early arcade games, the introduction of premature baby incubators in circus exhibitions, vaccines, and relatively unknown black female civil rights lawyer in Iowa, Gertrude Rush. It was thrilling to hear the students talk about how to find good sources and do research. They always found information that surprised them. One student researched rivers on fire from pollution and it ignited her passion for the environment. The student told us that because of this research she and her friends wanted to spend more time learning about the environment and finding ways to make it safer and cleaner.

There can be a lot of handwringing about the school system in the United States with regard to teachers, students in this generation, and the role of technology. But for me, on a Monday in April, I was able to exult in the joy of seeing students pushed to research and present a topic on Revolution, Reaction, and Reform in US History.

Thank you to all the social studies teachers that cajoled, required, and pushed students to participate in History Day. And thank you to all the students who worked diligently to understand and topic and talk to an interested nerdy historian about it.

About Rebecca:

Rebecca Koerselman is the program director for the Teaching History graduate program and also teaches courses in the undergraduate program on US history, the atomic bomb and nuclear culture, sport in societies, the history of native peoples, the history of religion, the history of gender, public history, and methods of teaching social studies.

0 Comments

Every day, school counselors show up as listeners, encouragers, problem-solvers, and advocates for students who need someone in their corner. During National School Counseling Week, we pause to recognize the life-changing impact these professionals have on students’ academic success, personal growth, and future goals.

School counselors are the steady presence in the middle of a student’s storm. They help a first grader navigate big emotions, guide a middle schooler through friendship struggles, and support a high school senior making decisions that will shape their future. Their work may not always be visible, but its influence lasts a lifetime.

In a world where students face increasing academic pressures, mental health challenges, and social complexities, school counselors serve as a crucial bridge between students, families, and educators.

Advocates, Leaders, and Difference-Makers
School counselors are advocates who work behind the scenes to ensure every student — regardless of background or circumstance — has access to opportunities and support. They collaborate with teachers, administrators, and families to create school environments where students feel safe, valued, and heard. Their impact goes beyond graduation rates or test scores. Counselors help students believe in themselves, see possibilities for their future, and develop the skills they need to thrive in life.

A Calling That Changes Lives
For many school counselors, the profession is more than a job — it’s a calling. It requires compassion, cultural awareness, strong communication skills, and a deep commitment to student well-being. It’s challenging work, but it’s also incredibly meaningful.

As we celebrate National School Counseling Week, we thank the counselors who show up every day ready to listen, guide, and uplift the students who need them most. Schools are stronger because of you, and students’ lives are better because you chose this path.

Inspired to Make a Difference?
If you feel called to support students’ academic, career, and personal growth, a career in school counseling offers the chance to create lasting impact every single day.

Northwestern College’s M.A. in School Counseling program is designed to prepare compassionate, skilled professionals to serve students in K–12 settings. Through a blend of practical experience, expert faculty mentorship, and a strong ethical foundation, the program equips future counselors to meet the complex needs of today’s students with confidence and care.

Because one caring adult can change a student’s story — and that adult could be you.

0 Comments

The field of education is constantly evolving. Classrooms are changing, student needs are becoming more diverse, and the work of educators continues to expand in important ways. For teachers who want to grow, lead, and make an even greater impact, continuing education isn’t just beneficial, it’s a powerful investment in their future.

Whether through a Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree, an endorsement, or a specialized certificate, advanced credentials help educators strengthen their skills, expand career opportunities, and increase their long-term professional security.

They Open Doors to Career Advancement
Many leadership and specialized roles in education require more than an initial teaching license. An M.Ed. degree, endorsement, or certificate can qualify educators for positions such as:

• Instructional coach
• Curriculum or instructional leader
• Reading or special education specialist
• Administrative pathways (with additional licensure)
• Avenue for teaching at the college level

Even when not required, advanced credentials make educators stronger candidates for promotions and leadership responsibilities within their schools and districts. They signal commitment, expertise, and readiness to take on greater influence.

They Increase Earning Potential
In many districts, salary schedules reward teachers for earning advanced degrees, endorsements, or graduate credits. Over time, these increases can significantly outpace the cost of the program itself. In this way, continuing education becomes more than professional development — it becomes a long-term financial investment with measurable return, especially from a program like Northwestern’s where the tuition costs are among the most affordable in the region.

They Build Specialized Skills Schools Need
Today’s classrooms are more diverse than ever, and schools are looking for educators with targeted expertise. Endorsements and certificates allow teachers to develop skills in high-need areas. These focused credentials don’t just strengthen a résumé; they equip educators with practical tools they can apply immediately to better serve their students.

They Provide Greater Job Security
School systems consistently need educators who can wear multiple hats. Teachers with additional endorsements or advanced degrees often have more flexibility in the roles they can fill, making them invaluable to their districts. This versatility can lead to:

• More stable employment
• Broader teaching assignments
• Increased resilience during staffing or enrollment shifts

In a changing educational landscape, adaptability is a major asset.

They Strengthen Confidence and Classroom Impact
Beyond titles and pay scales, many educators pursue advanced education for a simpler reason: they want to be better at what they do. Graduate coursework and specialized training help educators:

• Deepen their understanding of how students learn
• Use data more effectively
• Implement evidence-based instructional strategies
• Support students with diverse academic and social-emotional needs

The result is often renewed confidence, stronger classroom outcomes, and a deeper sense of purpose in their work.

They Fit Into the Lives of Working Educators
Northwestern’s M.Ed. programs, endorsements, and certificates are designed with working professionals in mind. Flexible, 100% asynchronous make it possible to continue teaching full-time while earning a new credential. This means educators don’t have to pause their careers to move them forward.

An Investment That Pays Off in More Ways Than One
Pursuing an M.Ed., endorsement, or certificate is about more than adding letters after your name. It’s about growth, as an educator, a leader, and an advocate for students.

For educators who want to expand their opportunities, strengthen their impact, and build a more secure future in education, advanced credentials are one of the most valuable steps they can take.

Ready to explore your next step in education? Learn how our graduate education programs, endorsements, and certificates are designed to support working educators and help you reach your professional goals. View programs here.

0 Comments

A new semester brings fresh opportunities—new goals, new classes, and new momentum. Whether you’re returning to your program or starting as a new student, the start of a new term is the perfect time to reset, refocus, and recommit to your academic journey.

Online learning offers flexibility and independence, but success doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built through intentional habits, strong organization, and a willingness to engage. Here are practical, proven strategies to help you thrive this semester—no matter where you are in your program.

1. Start With Clear Goals
Before coursework ramps up, take time to define what success looks like for you this semester. Write your goals down—whether it’s maintaining a certain GPA, staying on top of weekly assignments, or balancing school more effectively with work and family. Clear goals give purpose to your daily efforts. Ask yourself:

• What do I want to accomplish academically?
• How does this semester move me closer to my long-term goals?
• What challenges did I face last term, and how can I address them now?

2. Create a Consistent Weekly Schedule
One of the biggest advantages—and challenges—of online learning is flexibility. Structure is key. Consistency reduces stress and helps prevent last-minute cramming, especially when multiple deadlines overlap.

• Block out dedicated study times each week
• Treat online coursework like an in-person class commitment
• Schedule time for reading, discussions, assignments, and exam prep
• Build in buffer time for busy weeks

3. Stay Organized From Day One
Getting organized early sets the tone for the entire semester. Staying organized allows you to focus more energy on learning—and less on scrambling.

• Review all syllabi in the first week
• Add important deadlines to a digital or paper calendar
• Create folders (digital or physical) for each course
• Track discussion posts, quizzes, and major assignments

4. Engage Actively With Your Courses
Online learning is most effective when you’re an active participant. Engagement deepens understanding and helps you feel more connected—to the content, your classmates, and your instructors.

• Log in regularly, even on non-assignment days
• Participate thoughtfully in discussion boards
• Ask questions when concepts aren’t clear
• Connect course material to real-world experiences

5. Communicate Early and Often
You are not alone in your online program. Faculty and support staff want you to succeed—but communication matters. Proactive communication builds confidence and prevents small issues from becoming bigger obstacles.

• Reach out to instructors with questions or concerns
• Ask for clarification before deadlines pass
• Notify instructors early if challenges arise
• Take advantage of academic support services

6. Balance School, Life, and Well-Being
Many online students juggle coursework alongside careers, families, and other responsibilities. Balance is essential. Remember: consistency matters more than perfection. 

• Set realistic expectations for yourself
• Break large assignments into manageable steps
• Protect time for rest, exercise, and personal commitments
• Celebrate progress, not just final outcomes

7. Stay Connected to Your “Why”
Whether you’re pursuing a degree to advance your career, serve others, or reach a personal milestone, your “why” matters. When motivation dips—as it sometimes will—pause and reflect on:

• Why you started this program
• Who you’re doing this for
• How far you’ve already come

A Fresh Start for a Successful Semester
The new semester is a chance to begin again—with clarity, confidence, and renewed purpose. Online learning requires discipline, but it also offers incredible opportunity. By staying organized, engaged, and connected, you can make this semester one of growth and success.

Welcome back, and best wishes for a rewarding and successful spring term. 

0 Comments

Each year on Veterans Day, we pause to honor the men and women who have served our country with courage, sacrifice, and dedication. As a Physician Assistant program, this day holds special meaning. The PA profession itself was born out of the military, shaped by the service and experience of medics and corpsmen who cared for soldiers in some of the most challenging conditions imaginable.

How It All Began
In the years following World War II and the Vietnam War, thousands of military medics returned home with extensive medical training and hands-on experience treating patients in the field. Yet, despite their advanced skills, few opportunities existed for them to continue using those abilities in civilian healthcare.

Dr. Eugene Stead Jr. of Duke University recognized this gap. In 1965, he launched the first Physician Assistant program, training four former Navy corpsmen to extend the reach of physicians and improve access to care. These veterans became the first PAs, pioneering a new profession rooted in service, teamwork, and adaptability.

A Legacy of Service
That same spirit continues to define the PA profession today. Whether serving in the military or in various settings across America, PAs are known for stepping into places of need. The profession’s foundation in the military has shaped its emphasis on collaboration, flexibility, and mission-driven care—values that align closely with our calling here at Northwestern College.

Our program exists to equip PAs who serve patients in rural and underserved communities, demonstrating the same selflessness and commitment that characterized those early military medics. We believe healthcare is an opportunity to bring hope and healing to others, just as those first PAs did decades ago.

Honoring Those Who Serve
This Veterans Day, we not only thank those who have worn the uniform but also recognize how their service continues to shape medicine today. Many veterans choose to continue their mission of care through the PA profession, carrying forward a legacy that continues to impact and serve.

To all who have served—thank you. Your dedication has not only protected our freedom but also helped build a profession that embodies compassion, courage, and service.

0 Comments

At Northwestern, your success matters to us, not just in the classroom, but throughout your entire academic journey. We’re excited to announce that we now have a student success specialist dedicated to providing additional academic support for our online undergraduate and graduate students. In addition to the guidance you’ll receive from your academic advisor, our student success specialist provides an added layer of support. Choosing an online degree program is about more than convenience, it’s about knowing you’ll have the support you need to succeed.

Our student success specialist is here to walk alongside you as you navigate the demands of online learning providing personalized academic coaching that focuses on:

• Building strong study habits
• Staying organized
• Managing your time effectively

Whether you’re balancing coursework with a job, family, or other commitments, our student success staff will help you find strategies that work for your unique situation. This means that as a Northwestern online student, you won’t be left on your own to “figure it out.” Instead, you’ll have a professional resource invested in your success, ensuring you have the tools and strategies to thrive. And when additional help is needed, such as tutoring, you’ll be connected with the right support.

Take the Next Step Toward Success
This is more than just an added feature, it’s a reflection of our mission. At Northwestern, your success matters to us. Our student success specialist is just one example of the intentional, personalized support that makes our online programs Stand Out.

Your goals. Our support. Explore our online programs here.  

0 Comments

What to Expect on Your Interview Day
As the PA program enrollment counselor here at Northwestern College, one of my favorite parts of this role is walking alongside applicants during the interview process. If you’ve been invited to interview, congratulations, it truly is a privilege. Each year, our program receives many applications, and only the most competitive candidates are invited to campus. This means that by the time you step into your interview day, you’ve already distinguished yourself through your hard work, preparation, and experiences.

At the same time, we encourage you to approach this day with humility. Our program is unique in its mission: to equip physician assistants who will serve patients in rural and underserved communities. Your journey to becoming a PA is more than academics, it’s about growing in knowledge, faith, and service. We view this profession as a way to bring healing and hope to the communities you’ll serve. We are looking for students who not only demonstrate strong academic and interpersonal skills but who also understand the heart of our program, training providers who will make a difference where they are most needed. This training starts on day one at orientation, continues through the didactic terms, and is reinforced during clinical rotations. 

When Interviews Happen
Invitations to interview are sent between mid-August and mid-September. For the 2025 cycle, our interview dates are:

• September 5
• September 12
• September 26

Once you’ve received your invitation, you’ll also get a detailed schedule of what to expect on your interview day.

What the Day Looks Like
On your interview day, you’ll participate in both individual and group interviews. This is our opportunity to get to know you beyond your application and for you to learn more about us. We’ll be assessing qualities that go far beyond test scores, such as:

• Your understanding of the PA profession and of the Northwestern College PA Program
• Interpersonal skills and how you work with others
• Your commitment to learning and growing
• Self-awareness and emotional maturity
• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Cultural competency and respect for diverse backgrounds

Our Encouragement to You
We know interviews can feel intimidating, but we want you to see this day as a conversation, not an exam. Come prepared, but also come ready to be yourself. We want to see your passion for the PA profession, your heart for serving others, and your openness to learning.

Remember, this is also your chance to interview us. Ask questions, get a feel for our culture, and imagine yourself in a program deeply committed to preparing rural providers who will meet real needs in communities across the country.

A Final Word
Being invited to interview is an accomplishment worth celebrating. But it’s also just one step in a meaningful process. Stay humble, stay curious, and know that we are genuinely excited to meet you. We are praying for you as you prepare, and we look forward to seeing how your gifts and faith can impact the world through medicine. 

We can’t wait to welcome you to campus this September!

About the Author

Since 2023, Anna Mae has served as the Enrollment Counselor for Northwestern’s PA program. With a background in Secondary Education, she is passionate about education and about guiding prospective students through the PA application process.

0 Comments