Healthcare costs and affordable family health insurance plans have been at the forefront of discussions surrounding reform. A recent poll, however, shows that more than costs are on the minds of many consumers.

Data from the American Academy of Physician Assistants reveals that more than 30 percent of those polled said they are more satisfied with their healthcare when they can effectively communicate and spend more time with their care team.

AAPA president Patrick Killeen says the role of a physician's assistant is extremely important since they are frequently the first to speak with a patient.

"If we're able to expand the presence of physician-led teams in the health care system, we can meet patients' expectations that they'll have access to high quality, coordinated care, and that they'll be able to spend time with their provider to discuss treatment options for them and for their families," says Killeen.

Even though this poll shows patients would like to spend more time with their healthcare provider, that may not happen. Some predict a shortage of medical care staff in the future. With most Americans being required to have health insurance by 2014, there could be a larger number of people seeking care.