What are everyone's thoughts on direct-entry PA programs?

Basically title. I see a lot of posts and discussion regarding NPs who enter directly into the NP field without experience in nursing, which is obviously a huge problem, especially with independent practice laws. But a parallel I see quite a bit is direct entry PA students.

PA was meant to give medical professionals with a significant amount of medical experience a segway into becoming a provider, but I feel direct entry programs take away from that. While I worked in UC, I we had students rotate through and I personally saw a HUGE difference in those that were direct entry vs those who applied through CASPA. Most schools won't even consider you if you have had less than 2000 hours, while direct entry requires about 250-300 hours (at least with the program that went through our UC). So, I am wondering what your guys' thoughts are on the matter.