By Michael Tetreault, Editor-In-Chief
JANUARY 17, 2013 – There are three ways you can instantly increase the number of physicians stated above.
First, understand that the terminology being used in the concierge medicine or direct care marketplace describes many types of business models where doctors have some form of non-insurance or direct financial relationship with their patients. While all concierge medicine practices share similarities, they may vary widely in their structure, payment requirements, and form of operation. But at the end of the day, price transparency, access, affordable rates and the personal level of service provided to each patient is what they all have in common.
Second, understand that the term concierge medicine describes more specialties than just primary care, internal medicine and family medicine. Some dermatology, pediatric, cardiology and even dental practitioners are now providing a level of concierge medical care.
Third, education. Most people understand that concierge medicine has had somewhat of a “brand/identity” issue. It’s been referred to as: membership medicine; boutique medicine; retainer-based medicine; concierge health care; cash only practice; direct care; direct primary care, personalized healthcare, direct practice medicine and, most recently, contract carrying healthcare. Because at its inception, it appeared costly, elitist and controversial, many people associated a “rich man’s” stigma to it. However, the consumer, the physician community and even some legislators are realizing that this form of healthcare delivery, when free-market driven, is saving money and providing “better care,” according to MDVIP hospitalization studies recently conducted in the past few years (READ MORE ABOUT HOSPITALIZATION DATA HERE …)
