The inquest into the death of 77-year-old Susan Pollitt has raised serious concerns about the growing reliance on physician associates (PAs) in the NHS. Pollitt’s husband, Roy, criticized the health service for using what he termed ‘cheap labor’ in delivering care, attributing his wife’s death to an unattended abdominal drain. With the number of PAs doubling since 2021, medical experts warn their limited training—two years compared to seven for doctors—exposes patients to risks. The General Medical Council plans regulatory changes, but critics call for clearer guidelines on PAs’ roles to enhance patient safety.