In recent years, a noticeable shift has been happening in how Americans access healthcare. The number of visits to primary care physicians (PCPs) has been declining, while visits to nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and registered nurses have been on the rise. But what does this mean for the healthcare system? Researchers looked at a large dataset from 2010 to 2021 to explore how the number of visits to different healthcare providers has changed over time. They found that while visits to primary care physicians went up until 2018, the number of visits started to decline between 2019 and 2021. In contrast, the number of visits to nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and registered nurses nearly doubled during the same period.
One thing stood out: Preventive care visits to all types of healthcare providers, including PCPs, have increased. However, visits for acute (sudden health issues) and chronic (long-term conditions) care to PCPs have seen a drop.
Why are people turning to other providers? This trend isn’t just about healthcare providers shifting roles; it’s about patient preferences and needs. People without insurance or those who don’t have chronic conditions were more likely to visit PCPs, while those with chronic conditions or from non-White communities were more likely to seek care from nurse practitioners and physician assistants. It suggests that for certain groups, the traditional PCP may not always be the first option.
Experts agree that although these changes might look like a replacement of traditional healthcare roles, the goal should be collaboration. The healthcare system works best when primary care, subspecialists, and advanced practice providers (like nurse practitioners and physician assistants) work together. Strengthening primary care and ensuring there are enough support systems for healthcare professionals is key to keeping the system running smoothly. As the healthcare system continues to evolve, it’s essential to understand the growing role of non-physician providers and make sure that all types of care are integrated to meet the needs of a diverse population. It’s about ensuring that everyone, no matter their background or health situation, can receive the right care at the right time.
This shift in healthcare delivery is a reminder that healthcare is constantly changing and adapting to meet our needs. Whether you see a PCP, a nurse, or a specialist, the most important thing is getting the care you need, when you need it.
