If you have ever struggled to see your doctor, you are not alone. The AAMC reports that there could be a shortage of up to 139,000 doctors by 2033.
With this being the case, you might be asked if you would be happy to be seen by a physician assistant instead of a doctor. What should your answer be? Any reason to be wary and wait for your GP instead?
Well, you can be safe in the knowledge that physician assistants are medical professionals who have to study for a master’s degree to hold the position. In fact, there are good reasons why you should be happy to see a physician assistant instead of your doctor.
Read on to find out more.
1. They Can Diagnose and Treat
Knowing that you may not see the doctor could leave you feeling as if you are receiving a downgrade. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. A physician assistant can diagnose, treat, manage and even assist with surgeries.
As highlighted earlier, they study for 2 to 3 years covering the same areas of medicine as doctors. Added to that, physician assistants often specialize in one area of medicine or another meaning that they can at times have physician assistant specialties in the very discipline that you are having difficulties with.
2. They Are Ready and Waiting to See You
At times just getting in front of your doctor can be the biggest obstacle to getting the care that you need. This is through no fault of their own. The American Association of Physician leadership reports that your doctor could have a caseload of up to 3000 patients.
That is an astronomically high number and one that unfortunately means that your struggle to see your primary care doctor may take some time.
Seeing a physician assistant on the other hand is far easier to do. Their caseloads are far less and therefore the chances of you getting quick answers to your healthcare issues are far higher.
3. Two for the Price of One
Other than the fact that they have more time to go over any cares and concerns you may have, there is another reason you should be more than happy to booking time with your PA.
Rather than feeling as if you are taking a chance when seeing a physician assistant, they work hand in hand with your primary care doctor. This means that if you have anything of major concern you are essentially getting a guaranteed second opinion.
This added layer of security in your healthcare should be a source of comfort for anyone seeking the best medical care possible.
A Physician Assistant: Key in Helping You Get the Healthcare That You Deserve
There is no reason to be hesitant if asked by your doctor’s receptionist if you want to see the physician assistant. In fact, there is good reason to request them!
We hope that this insight into the inner workings of your doctor’s clinic has proved useful. If it has, be sure to share, and don’t miss out on any of the other great healthcare content we have on our site.
