Only in medicine is discussing prices before providing care a revolutionary concept. Prices serve as an important signal to both providers and patients as to the relative scarcity of care. Whether that is time with a physician, time in the operating room, the cost of equipment necessary for procedures, or medications the price signal is important for both sides to understand the real cost of using resources. Unfortunately, the Medicare and Medicaid payment models make it legally tricky to set up that type of practice. But one surgeon I found has committed herself to making the pricing transparent and upfront with all her patients. That surgical specialist is Dr. Elaina George, an otolaryngologist in Atlanta, Georgia who not only operates a solo practice free from medical systems but also finds time to host a radio show and write extensively. Dr. George describes opting out of Medicare back before it was cool. She runs her specialty practice with a focus on doing procedures inexpensively in her office and upfront pricing with all her patients so they never have to wonder what their care is going to cost. Dr. George explains how because of this lack of price transparency within the US medical system that we allow ourselves (both patients and doctors) to get removed from meaningful control in the utilization and pricing of services which harms those delivering and receiving medical care. In order to change this dynamic, we need to promote more robust choice for everyone involved allowing for innovation and personal choice that matches individual's beliefs and preferences. Dr. Elaina George is an HEENT and the author of the book, Big Medicine: The Cost of Corporate Control & How Doctors & PatientsWorking Together Can Rebuild a Better System.
show notes
@medicineoncall: Twittering with Dr. George
Dr. George's Home Website: A place to find Dr. George's writings, media appearances, links to her book, and all things George.
Peach Tree ENT Center: Dr. George's ENT practice website in Altanta, GA.
Medicine On Call Radio Show: Dr. George's radio show which airs Saturday and Sunday from noon to 1 PM ET on Liberty Talk FM
Episode 004: Nuts & Bolts How to Start Your Direct Primary Care Practice with Dr. Chad Savage
Memorial for Andy Larson: This is the donation link to honor Andy's death with the Grand Rapids Choir of Men and Boys where he blossomed and served as a head chorister.
YouTube for Paradocs: Here you can watch the video of my late son singing his solo on the Paradocs YouTube page.
Patreon - Become a show supporter today and visit my Patreon page for extra bonus material. Every dollar raised goes towards the production and promotion of the show.
