I want to heal! ...but first...

[GideonHighmourn]

So what are AST's current issues/obstacles?

Without going into too much detail ... In normal content and leveling, I wouldn't say there really are any issues outside of when they gain skills. They do wait a long time to receive new single-target attacks and don't receive an AoE until 52. Outside of progression and "end game" content, there is really nothing wrong with AST. The problem at progression and endgame content is mostly their lack of healing cool downs compared to WHM/SCH and their lack of reliable, meaningful group utility. The card buffs are mostly just fluff, and really don't fill in the "hole" left by lower potency heals and lack of healing cool downs, as they're supposed to have traded healing potency for utility according to SE.

AST lacks its own unique healing mechanics, and is therefore pigeon-holed into being a WHM Jr or SCH Jr; since it doesn't (or hasn't yet) created a new "meta" healing game, it's lagging behind the other two healers in terms of performance in endgame progression.

By all means, if you enjoy the class, play it. I'm sure more changes and adjustments will come to AST over the following months.