My experience with NP's and PA's here is that they've been quite competent and highly motivated. They can help you--as long as you observe the Golden Rule of Health Care: You (and no one else) are in charge of your health. Always keep your eyes wide open, give the provider maximum info about your problem, and listen very closely to what you're being told.

The biggest negative trend in health care today is its high cost. Doctors are under orders to spend no more than 10-15 minutes with each patient--hardly enough time to make an accurate diagnosis. That's why you have to be on your toes, give a lot of info, and listen carefully.