The term “concierge medicine” conjures images of exclusivity, special treatment and high cost. But can the concept be adapted to appeal to the masses? With an impending shortages of doctors – particularly in primary care – and many more patients covered by insurance than ever before (under the Affordable Care Act), there is a reasonably good chance that patients will need to wait longer for an appointment with their doctor and be able to spend less time visiting with him or her. In addition, more and more Americans are covered under high deductible health plans. Increasing out-out-pocket costs and decreased access might be the ingredients necessary to give birth (or rebirth) to cash pay medicine. For more on the possibility of affordable “concierge” medicine, consider this recent article published on Businessweek.com.
