Physician extenders are a unique group of individuals that were brought on the scene somewhere around the 1960s. Duke University was the first program to bring on physician assistants, and they did it because there was a shortage of nursing care, as well as physicians. They brought them on-board to help us bridge what we provide for patients. They provide us the opportunity to have quicker access into our offices, quicker diagnostic tests being done and answers to many of the questions that are needed. It helps alleviate a lot of the fears and concerns patients have. It helps us to be more “present” when we’re physically unable to be present.