KevinMD July 8, 2024
In recent years, the medical landscape has seen significant changes, not all of them favorable. One of the most noticeable shifts is the increasing reliance on physician extenders—such as nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs)—to handle a substantial portion of patient care. While this model works well for a broad segment of the population, it doesn’t suit everyone’s needs. As a physician myself, I understand the importance of efficient health care delivery. However, I have reservations about seeing a physician extender exclusively, especially when I have more medical training and experience.
When I contact a medical office to schedule an appointment, I often have to inquire directly whether I will see a doctor or an extender. Despite identifying myself...