Primary care physicians (PCPs) operating under the traditional model of healthcare are handcuffed by constant dependence on insurance and the endless paperwork that goes along with it. As a result, PCPs are often unable to provide the level of care they want to administer, let alone the level of care that patients deserve.
Luckily, the world of concierge medicine is growing quickly, and so is its utilization among primary care providers. A growing number of primary care doctors are switching to concierge medicine due to the autonomy it affords them and the enhanced service they can provide to their patient panels.
In this new and improved model of healthcare, patients pay an annual or monthly membership fee in exchange for increased availability, convenience and better overall service. The main difference being, concierge primary care physicians can focus on their patients’ needs without constantly catering to insurance providers.
Key Benefits of Membership-Based Primary Care
The main goal of transitioning to a concierge primary care clinic is to provide better care to patients. Having the time and capabilities necessary to effectively address patients’ needs is the most common reason PCPs switch to a membership-based model. In addition to the countless benefits it provides to patients, concierge primary care offers valuable advantages for the physician.
These include:
- Better Doctor-Patient Relationships:In the traditional models of healthcare, patients feel like a number because of the large number of appointments their doctors need to make each day. Under concierge primary care, doctors get to know their patients and their illnesses. This is especially important regarding chronic conditions that need consistent attention. Patients who are more comfortable with their doctor tend to be more transparent, which leads to more accurate diagnosis and treatment.
- Patient Satisfaction:With a reliable stream of income, primary care concierge practices don’t need to see as many patients in a day, which in turn enables them to spend more time with each individual patient. Their offices also spend less time completing paperwork, giving doctors even more time face-to-face to address patients’ needs.
- Prevent Burnout:Another important reason that PCPs become concierge primary care physicians is to prevent burnout. Many times, doctors retire early because they are overworked and lose their love of medicine.