SC Physician Assistants to Protest for Looser Practice Rules

Physician assistant groups say outdated regulations are worsening the state's healthcare provider shortage

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Physician assistants from across South Carolina plan to gather at the State House on Wednesday to urge lawmakers to loosen practice rules they say are worsening the state's already severe shortage of healthcare providers. More than 90 PAs and PA students are expected to attend the South Carolina Academy of PAs' annual 'PA Day at the Capitol,' where participants will meet with legislators to advocate for changes.

Why it matters

South Carolina faces a severe shortage of healthcare providers, with 41 of the state's 46 counties considered Health Professional Shortage Areas. Physician assistants argue they could help fill care gaps, particularly in rural communities, if outdated regulatory barriers were lifted.

The details

The state's nearly 3,500 PAs could play a larger role in filling care gaps, organizers say, particularly in rural communities, if outdated regulatory barriers were lifted. Lawmakers are weighing several proposals this session aimed at making it easier for PAs to work in underserved regions, including a bill to end the requirement that experienced PAs maintain a formal supervisory agreement with a physician.

  • The protest is scheduled for Wednesday, February 17, 2026.
  • Lawmakers are currently considering bills to loosen practice rules for PAs during the current legislative session.

The players

South Carolina Academy of PAs

The professional organization representing physician assistants in South Carolina, organizing the protest at the State House.

Rep. Heath Sessions

A state representative who chairs a key subcommittee within the House Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs Committee, and is expected to introduce a bill to further streamline PA practice.

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What’s next

Lawmakers are expected to consider the proposed bills to loosen practice rules for PAs during the current legislative session.

The takeaway

This protest highlights the growing demand for healthcare providers in South Carolina, particularly in underserved rural areas, and the potential for physician assistants to help fill those gaps if regulatory barriers are addressed.