Physician Assistant in Anaesthesia Scope of Practice 2025 published

In December 2024 we published the Interim AA Scope of Practice, supported by the Association of Anaesthetists. It was subsequently endorsed by the Leng Review, whose recommendations were accepted in full by the government.

We have today published an updated version, the Physician Assistant in Anaesthesia Scope of Practice 2025. The only change is to the name of the profession, which has been updated to Physician Assistants in Anaesthesia (legally known as Anaesthesia Associates), as recommended by the Leng Review. The accompanying explanatory notes have been updated for the same reason.

Developed through consultation with our members and other stakeholders, the Scope of Practice provides a safe framework for PAAs to contribute to the delivery of high-quality anaesthetic care. It sets out clearly defined phases of practice from qualification onwards, including the levels of supervision required.  

We expect all departments employing PAAs to continue implementing this Scope of Practice.