The PA Playbook

Practical Advice for Physician Associates. We discuss smart strategies for PA practice, legislative updates, leadership and advocacy and making the most of your career.

The PA Playbook is a health podcast hosted by Eileen Ravella & Troy Bender, with 40 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Eileen Ravella & Troy Bender hosts The PA Playbook, a health show with 40 episodes published.

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  Episode #29

  Rural Healthcare at the Crossroads: Hospital Closures, Workforce Shortages, and Solutions

  Aug 20, 202653 minS2

  Across the United States, rural communities are losing hospitals, struggling to recruit healthcare professionals, and facing increasing barriers to accessing timely, life-saving care. For millions of Americans, a medical emergency can mean traveling hours for treatment, while providers work tirelessly with limited resources to meet the needs of their communities. In this episode, we'll explore why rural hospitals are closing, the demographics driving these challenges, and the impact these closures have on patients, families, healthcare providers, and local economies. We'll also discuss innovative solutions—from telehealth and workforce development to new care delivery models and policy initiatives—that are helping strengthen rural healthcare. Guest: Brett Antczak

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  Episode #28

  Recognized to treat but not to train?

  Aug 20, 202624 minS2

  The Department of Education initially excluded PA and many advanced nursing programs from the higher professional-student borrowing category . On June 24, 2026, a federal court temporarily stayed key portions of that definition. Current federal guidance now treats qualifying PA, MSN, DNP, and nurse-anesthesia programs as professional-degree programs while litigation continues. Guests: Nancy Lawton & Bob Smithing

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  Episode #27

  Sarcopenia: The Silent Epidemic of Muscle Loss and Aging, What Every PA Should Know.

  Aug 3, 202652 minS2

  Sarcopenia is one of the most common—and least recognized—conditions affecting older adults. Beginning as early as our 30s, we gradually lose muscle mass and strength, increasing the risk of falls, fractures, frailty, hospitalization, disability, and loss of independence. In this episode of PA Playbook , host Eileen Ravella, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA I sit down with Dr. Stephanie Frentzel PA-C to discuss why sarcopenia has become one of the most important yet under-diagnosed conditions facing today’s healthcare providers. Together we explore the latest evidence on screening, diagnosis, nutrition, resistance training, and emerging therapies that can help patients preserve strength and maintain independence throughout life. Whether you practice primary care, emergency medicine, orthopedics, geriatrics, palliative care, or another specialty, you’ll leave this episode with practical, evidence-based strategies you can begin using with your patients immediately. Host: Eileen Ravella, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA Guest: PA Dr Stephanie Frentzel, DMSc

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  Episode #26

  Health Equity in Focus: Endometriosis, Preeclampsia, & Black Maternal Outcomes

  Jul 23, 202655 minS2

  Emerging research suggests that endometriosis is more than a chronic gynecologic condition—it may also increase the risk of serious pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia and eclampsia. In this episode of PA Playbook , we examine the intersection of endometriosis, maternal health, and racial disparities, with a focus on the disproportionate impact on Black women. We discuss why endometriosis is often under-diagnosed and under-treated in Black patients, how delayed diagnosis may contribute to poorer pregnancy outcomes, and what clinicians can do to recognize risk earlier. Join us for an evidence-based conversation on improving awareness, advancing equitable care, and reducing preventable maternal morbidity and mortality. Research: Alaribe, C. C., & Sapre, K. D. (2026). Association between preeclampsia and eclampsia in Black women with endometriosis: A scoping review. BMC Public Health, 26, Article 1953. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-026-27739-w

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  Episode #25

  Leadership Through Advocacy: A Conversation With Dr. David Mittman

  Jul 22, 202657 minS2

  Join PA Playbook hosts Eileen Ravella, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA, and Troy Bender, DMSc, PA-C, as they welcome Dr. David Mittman, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA, one of the profession's most respected leaders in physician associate advocacy and leadership. In this engaging conversation, Dr. Mittman shares lessons from decades of advancing the PA profession, discussing leadership, legislative advocacy, professional identity, and the importance of shaping the future of healthcare. From navigating challenges in scope of practice to mentoring the next generation of PAs, this episode provides practical insights and inspiration for clinicians at every stage of their careers. Whether you're an experienced PA, a new graduate, or a PA student, you'll come away with strategies to become a stronger advocate, more effective leader, and influential voice for the profession.

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