PAs fill much of that role. Yes, they do require physician supervision, but at many practices you can make appointments directly with them, never seeing an MD.<p>The last time I needed a basic physical, I saw the PA. She ordered blood-work and reviewed the results with me. I&#x27;m sure one of the physicians signed off on everything, but as far as I know, she did the work.<p>Likewise, the last time I had the flu, I made an appointment with one of the PAs. She did everything, with the physician just signing off on the prescription at the end.<p>Post-surgery, my follow-ups were with PAs or NPs, not the physician.  He did drop in to say &quot;Hi.&quot; but that was about it.