Fueled by Health Law, ‘Concierge Medicine’ Reaches New Markets
Spurred by the federal health law and frustrations with insurance requirements, a growing number of primary care doctors are bringing a service that generally has been considered “health care for billionaires” to middle-income, Medicaid, and Medicare populations…
In direct primary care, patients pay about $100 a month or less directly to the physician for comprehensive primary care, including basic medication, lab tests, and follow-up visits in person, over email, and by phone. The idea is that doctors – who no longer have to wade through heaps of insurance paperwork – can focus on treating patients. They spend less on overhead, driving costs down. In turn, physicians say they can give care that’s more personal and convenient than in traditional practices….