Last week, Rep. Pete Aguilar attended the groundbreaking of California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB)’s brand-new 27-month Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA) program. Rep. Pete Aguilar secured $2 million for renovations and lab equipment for this project last year.

Currently, the Inland Empire is facing a shortage of health care professionals. Despite the population growth in the region, there are only approximately 41 primary care physicians per 100,000 people. This program will address this shortage by training up to 50 physician assistants per cohort who can provide primary care upon graduation.

“Ensuring that our residents have access to affordable, high-quality health care is one of my top priorities,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “It is deeply concerning that many of our friends and neighbors are forced to put their health care on hold or travel far distances just to see a doctor because of the doctor shortage in the Inland Empire. I’m proud to have helped deliver federal funding for CSUSB’s MSPA program, and I look forward to welcoming their graduates to our community as physician’s assistances and primary care providers.”

“We are extremely grateful to Congressman Pete Aguilar and State Senator Richard Roth for the vital role they have played in making the MSPA program a reality,” said CSUSB President Tomás D. Morales. “As the first of its kind in the region, the program will fill a critical unmet need by preparing physician assistants who will increase equitable health care, advocate for patients, and ultimately, transform the health of all communities, including the rural and underserved, throughout the Inland Empire.”

Rep. Aguilar helped pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which capped the cost of insulin at $35/month and lowered the cost of other prescription medication and insurance premiums.