How do Adcom physicians view the rural primary physician? Is there concern for extending their role?

[BigPremedGuy]

---

Members do not see this ad.

I have grown up and been working as a MA in urgent and primary care in a rural area of Oregon, with a big PCP shortage.

Many of the physicians I work with actually perform a lot of their own procedures like colonoscopies, OB, vasectomies, skin cancer removals, etc. I've found that patient's really respond well to seeing a familiar face (their pcp) behind the mask at these more nerve-wracking procedures. I also wish to return to my area or one like it and practice in primary care. Recently I've found some additional inspiration from this, and wish to be a similar provider in the future, one who has ability to perform a wide range of things other doctors may refer out for.

I'd love to talk about this with adcoms at my interviews, but am wondering if it's a little bit naïve? Obviously this type of medicine is mostly if not solely practiced in areas with shortages. How is this type of medicine viewed at actual medical institutions? I am concerned it would come off as me wanting to do things that should be done by specialists, and trying to practice outside the potential scope of primary care?

Would love to hear some feedback about this, and whether I should discuss it at interviews.

Thanks guys

 

[LizzyM]

If the procedure is within the provider's scope of practice (in terms of licensure), if the provider has been trained to do it, and has the malpractice coverage for that procedure, I don't see where adcom physicians would second guess that colleague, particularly in areas where there are shortages and issues regarding patients' access to care. If you've worked as an MA, you have had a front row seat and are approaching the field with your eyes wide open and not as someone who likes it in theory but who has never been in that practice setting.

 

[BigPremedGuy]

If the procedure is within the provider's scope of practice (in terms of licensure), if the provider has been trained to do it, and has the malpractice coverage for that procedure, I don't see where adcom physicians would second guess that colleague, particularly in areas where there are shortages and issues regarding patients' access to care. If you've worked as an MA, you have had a front row seat and are approaching the field with your eyes wide open and not as someone who likes it in theory but who has never been in that practice setting.

Hey thanks for the feedback, especially appreciate a comment from 'the' LM!