Many physicians, frustrated by the bureaucracy of modern medical practice, the financial pressure to shorten appointments and limit face time with patients, and the delays and hassle of dealing with health insurers for reimbursement, are increasingly turning to concierge medical practices as an alternative. Under this business model, patients pay a set annual fee for unlimited or nearly unlimited access to a private primary care physician, many of whom will even make house calls for minor illnesses, injuries and physicals.
Although the fees for this service can be expensive, and while it does not replace the need for insurance in the event of more serious health problems, this system has some clear advantages, both for those who can afford it and for the doctors who can build a successful concierge medical practice. The physician in a concierge practice typically has far fewer patients, and does not depend on a certain volume of patients per day to generate sufficient revenue for the practice. This means that the doctor can spend significantly more time with his or her patients, and build a deeper rapport with each patient.
Additionally, since the number of patients per physician is much smaller in a concierge practice, patients do not have to wait days or even weeks for an appointment. According to a recent survey by Merritt Hawkins, a physician staffing firm, average wait times for new patients seeking non-emergency medical services in was As a result, concierge practices are becoming increasingly common in the Phoenix area, especially in wealthier enclaves such as Scottsdale and Paradise Valley.
However, there are several issues that any practitioner should be aware of before starting a concierge medical practice. It is critically important that you have a written agreement in place with your patients before you start a concierge medical practice.
Not only will a written agreement provide both you and your patients with a clear understanding regarding the scope and nature of the relationship, it can also shield you against potential liability and disciplinary action. As just one example, Arizona has a statute prohibiting charging or collecting excessive fees for services. Generally, patients who use concierge medical services are encouraged to maintain their own private or employer-sponsored medical insurance as well.
