Primary care physicians (PCPs) are exactly what their title suggests — they’re patients’ first contact when signs of health issues emerge. They’re also typically the professionals people see when it’s time for a physical or check-up. This means they get to know their patients on a more personal level than specialists do and have stronger relationships with their patients. At least, that’s how it should be.
The unfortunate truth is that in the modern healthcare landscape, PCPs can spend more time with their noses buried in paperwork than face-to-face with a patient. They need to accept as many patients as possible to maximize the long-term success of their practices, which means less interaction with individuals. As a result, so many physicians are making the switch to the concierge model of medicine.
Concierge PCPs provide the same services but operate under a subscription-based business model instead of relying on reimbursements from insurance providers. Concierge patients pay a fee on an annual or monthly basis for access to care from their doctor, rather than submitting a claim whenever they make an office visit or receive treatment. When compared to how most practices operate, it’s clear that this framework offers some significant advantages to doctors as well as their patients.
How Concierge PCP Practices and Patients Benefit
The philosophy of the concierge model fits neatly within the focus of a PCP practice. It frees them from constraints and enables them to provide the level of care their patients need. Following are just a few examples of how switching to concierge medicine benefits both sides of patient care.
Patient engagement — Without the mountains of paperwork typically associated with insurance reimbursement, PCPs and their staff have more time to work directly with the people they treat. Because these practices no longer need to accept large numbers of patients to maintain a proper revenue flow, they don’t need to rush people through the exam room. The end result is that each patient has the opportunity to build a rapport with his or her doctor while knowing that they will have the caregiver’s full attention during a visit. This makes it more likely a patient will follow the physician’s advice and be more engaged in the prescribed care.
Greater revenues — With the subscription model in place, practices have a steady, predictable stream of revenues coming in year-round. Not only does this mean they can maintain their focus on caring for patients, but also that they can think long term about the health of their businesses. With cash flow stabilized, profits can be reinvested back into the practice with confidence. This empowers PCPs to grow strategically and improve the level of care they provide on a consistent basis.
Reduced bureaucracy — Working with insurance companies means more than just a lot of paperwork. In many cases, PCPs can find themselves handcuffed by what insurers are and aren’t willing to subsidize. This means they may be forced to avoid certain treatments that they believe would make a difference for certain patients because the insurance provider won’t pay for them. Under the concierge structure, however, there are none of these restrictions. Physicians are free to pursue any avenue of care they feel is most appropriate without fear of having it rejected as too costly. Therefore, concierge PCPs are able to provide patient-focused care that leads to better outcomes.
Let Specialdocs Consultants Guide Your Journey
As experts in transitioning to the concierge model, Specialdocs Consultants can show your primary care practice the way to a better future. We work closely with you to make the switch in the manner that benefits your patients and staff most. If you are interested in converting your office to a concierge structure, reach out to us today and take the first step with our expertise by your side.