"Could be" is the key word. I made a dermatologist appointment a couple months ago to get some moles checked out. Couldn't get the doc I wanted as they were booked, so the receptionist asked me if a physician's assistant would be okay or if I would like to see a different MD.

"Will my copay be cheaper if I see a PA?", I asked.

"Absolutely not" was the response.

So why would I pay the same to see someone less qualified?

Incentives in the American healthcare system are extremely screwed up.