Why physician assistants are critical as health systems evolve

I have a long history with family medicine as my father was an early pioneer – heading up the family medicine program at Chicago’s Cook County Hospital in the 1970s. Even back then my dad was using physician assistants (PAs) — many of them former military medics in the Vietnam War era — who were part of what was at that time a brand new profession. Family medicine as a whole was early to recognize the value of PAs and how they could extend our ability to help people in an outstanding manner. As a family practice physician, I work with PAs on a daily basis to coordinate and deliver comprehensive care for our patients. In the 25 years I have practiced medicine, our health care system has come full circle — back to the concept of the family doctor, as medicine moves to patient-centered medical homes (PCMH) and accountable care organizations (ACOs). That appeals to patients who want providers who know who they are and who can both help them today and care for them over a lifetime. It also benefits health care organizations that recognize they must be cost-effective to survive. Continue reading ... Your patients are rating you online: How to respond. Manage your online reputation: A social media guide. Find out how.
Source: Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog - Category: Journals (General) Authors: Tags: Physician Primary care Source Type: blogs