Among Friends

[Goldengate8361]

I had an accident, hurt my toes (pretty badly), saw an Urgent Care doctor immediately. He then told me that I should follow up with an orthopaedic specialist. I made an appointment today with an orthopedic practice recommended to me by a friend. The appointment, however, is with an orthopedic PA.....I’m wondering if anyone else sees a PA or do you insist on seeing an MD? It’s possible that the PA might even be better, but I’m not sure....I’m looking for any opinions that anyone would care to offer.

[BirkiLady]

@Goldengate8361  In most states, a PA is able to do almost everything (including RX) that a physician can do. Start there. You'll get the xrays and immediate things done. And have a great diagnosis. You'll be in good hands.  If the PA needs to refer you further, he/she will do so. 

[RedTop]

For the follow up purpose you’re seeing them for, the PA will be just fine.  I would not even be concerned.

[GAQShopr53]

@Goldengate8361 I had knee surgery and the lead physician was the head of the orthopedic department; however, there was a physician assistant in the OR that performed the surgery and I have not been happier...As of date the same PA is the person who gives me my knee injections and I would not trade him for another doctor for anything.  My primary care physician is also a very good PA and the only issue is when prescribing meds she is limited on the amount and how many refills she can give.  This is not a deal breaker for me...I have attended appointments  thinking I would see an actual orthopedic doctor only to see the PA...I would say if you are not comfortable with the PA then tell them and you should be able to see the actual doctor...

[Justice4all]

I would see a very experienced orthopedic surgeon

[Catty2]

I see a PA for rheumatoid arthritis about every 3 months.  Once a year my appt. is with the actual dr.  I like the PA and she seems to know what she's doing. 

[GCR18]

I see a PA for routine care for the past ten years, no issues.  Saw a PA at the dermatologist office to remove a freckle, no issues.

[Kachina624]

If I pay for a M.D., I want to see a M.D..  I wouldn't mind a PA for something like removing/replacing bandages, but for the important stuff I want a M.D..  I'd never have surgery done by a PA.

[Kalli]

We have a PA in our family who trains fellows, so I have respect for PAs and the job they do.  I wouldn’t hesitate to see one.  However, if I had concerns after being treated by the PA, I’d check with his/her supervising dr.  

I go to an NP for my yearly gyn appointment. She’s fabulous: caring, professional, knowledgeable and a wonderful person. I haven’t seen a dr in gyn in well over a decade. This NP has a lengthy waiting list. So lucky I got an appt with her when she first came to our area!

[Coquille]

@Goldengate8361 As @GAQShopr53 stated, I to had my knees done by the head of the Orthopedic Dept, years ago. I have continued to see him for about 10 years or more. He has a PA who is fantastic. I try to see her as much as I can. She is better at giving the injections and more compassionate. Don't get me wrong, I love my Orthopedist, he's the best but so is she. I would feel very comfortable seeing her instead of him, for anything. Every situation and every doctor is different. You must be happy with whomever you see. Speak up for yourself if you are unhappy.