Have you have been seen, or cared for, by a Physician Associate?
This survey is only relevant if you - or a loved one - have been seen by a Physician Associate.
What is a Physician Associate?
A physician associate might work in a GP surgery or be based in a hospital, but most work in GP practices. They support doctors in the diagnosis and management of patients. Like doctors and GPs, physician associates can take medical histories, carry out physical examinations and develop and deliver treatment and management plans. They cannot currently prescribe medication or refer patients for things such as X-rays or CT scans (a test that takes detailed pictures of the inside of your body and is used to diagnose conditions or check how well treatment is working). You may have been referred to a Physician Associate, rather than be seen by a GP.
A detailed explanation of a Physician's Associate’s role is available on the Royal College of Physicians website.
Healthwatch in Sussex as the local independent champion for health and care would like to hear about your experiences of being seen by a Physician's Associate, including:
- Do you understand what a Physician's Associate does?
- Did seeing a Physician's Associate meet your needs?
- How does seeing a Physician’s Associate compare to seeing a GP?
- Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
Thank you!
