Would-be physician assistants deterred by strict caps on US student loans

The new federal student loan caps, limiting borrowing to $20,500 per year, are prompting many aspiring physician assistants to rethink their training plans due to the substantial shortfall compared to the median annual cost of PA programs. This change, set to take effect on July 1, has drawn criticism from advocacy groups who argue it undermines access to essential medical training. With healthcare demand rising, these loan restrictions could lead to a shortage of qualified physician assistants, impacting patient care and the overall healthcare system.