Concierge Practices, Research Paper Example

A major issue in modern medicine is the cost that doctors are required to invest to keep their doors open. It is important to consider that healthcare practices have many overhead costs that are generally associated with running a business such as rent, compensation for employees, and investment in the latest healthcare technology. Unfortunately, individual patients cannot typically cover these costs out of their own pockets and health insurance reimbursements are not designed to do so either. As a consequence, the concept of “concierge practices” were developed in order to ensure that each patient receives the time and individualized care they actually deserve.

While this concept allows a major problem in healthcare to be solved, it is clear that this practice is only beneficial to a small portion of the population. Because members are required to pay a membership fee of $1,800, they are essentially paying out of pocket for the doctor to take less patients and give them more time. While this works to the benefit of the practice and its operations, a physician who cares for about 2000 patients can now care for about 300. The 1700 that cannot afford to participate in the membership fee are essentially being cheated out of the care they need.

If cost were not really a factor, I would likely pay for this type of coverage to ensure I get the care I need. However, it is important to understand the social issues that this kind of participation would create. I would do so because it would benefit me and ensure that my health is above average. However, if I and many others chose to participate, it would detract from the care that patients who are not able to pay the membership fee receive.

Works Cited

Kisken T. “’Concierge medicine’ offers quick access to doctors, for a hefty fee”. 4 September 2013. Web. 25 Feb. 2014. <http://www.gosanangelo.com/news/2013/sep/14/concierge-medicine-offers-quick-access-doctors-hef/?print=1>