Steven A. Johnson, M.D.

Mid-Level Associates

Mid-level providers consist of physician assistants and nurse practitioners and are also referred to as "physician extenders". The U.S. has experienced a shortage of physicians (particularly specialists) over the last 20 years. And the shortage is projected to worsen over the next 20 years. The medical field has adapted by training and using mid-level providers working in close co-operation with experienced doctors to increase the capacity for providing healthcare to patients.

Medicare and most private insurance companies understand the role of mid-level providers and allow payment for medical services performed by mid-level providers just as they do for services provided by physicians.

During his residency in urology at UTMB in Galveston, Dr. Johnson participated in clinical teaching for physician assistants for four years. He has been a leader in urology speciality where incorporating mid-level associates into a medical practice is concerned. Since opening his practice in 1996, Dr. Johnson has personally trained six mid-level associates to provide urologic care to patients throughout the Texoma region.

Mid-level providers are authorized to exam patients, order lab tests and radiologic studies, make diagnoses, perform office procedures, recommend surgery and prescribe medication.