More states are loosening physician assistant restrictions and allowing them to exercise more autonomy. In a move towards team-based care, PAs can work with physicians on a more collaborative level vs. a supervisory role.

This new wave of changes, including the lifting of physician assistant restrictions, comes as the United States transitions into a value-based care role instead of the fee-for-service method, which means the patient is the focus of getting the right care at the right time.

Also, a physician shortage is beginning to take place, and Americans are becoming more accepting of receiving care from other types of qualified providers. All of these reasons are paving the way for physician assistants to close the healthcare gap and give better patient care.

See which states are changing or updating legislation on Forbes.com.