Savvy Healthcare Lady Series

Is the Doctor Really In? Are You Seeing the Doctor or the PA?
This book was written to shine a light on a growing issue in modern healthcare: the confusion patients face when they unknowingly receive care from a provider who isn’t a physician. As someone who has witnessed firsthand the frustration and uncertainty that arises when patients learn—often after the fact—that they were seen by a Physician Associate (PA) rather than an MD or DO, I felt compelled to provide clarity.

This book does not aim to discredit the role of PAs, who are valuable members of the healthcare team. Rather, it is a guide to understanding the critical differences in education, training, and scope of practice between physicians (MDs and DOs) and midlevel providers like PAs. Many patients are unaware of these distinctions and, as a result, may place trust in a system that doesn’t always make roles and responsibilities clear.

Through transparent, accessible information and real-world examples, this book empowers you to make informed decisions about your care. It advocates for your right to know who is providing your medical treatment and equips you with the knowledge to ask the right questions. Whether you're navigating a primary care visit or a specialized medical consultation, this book is your companion in understanding the healthcare landscape—and making sure the doctor really is in.