3 ms·
Honestly, I don't have any problem with this, and I see it as a great thing. 95% of the time when I go to the doctor it's something routine and basic, e.g. I ju
by hn_throwaway_99 3y ago
Honestly, I don't have any problem with this, and I see it as a great thing. 95% of the time when I go to the doctor it's something routine and basic, e.g. I just need someone to diagnose my cold/flu/infection etc.
My question, though, is where are all the "savings" going if so many visits are now seen by lower paid professionals? I was referred to a sleep study, where a PA or nurse practitioner just proceeded to ask me some basic questions from a form to see if I qualified for the study. She added practically nothing to the process (literally she was just reading questions from a form) and then charged my insurance company $200 for 15 minutes of her time. The whole thing was insane. That visit should have cost $20 max, yet people are lining their pockets at every step.
- twoodfin 3y agoThat my insurer gives me significant financial incentive to see an NP at an urgent care clinic vs. going to the ER suggests the cost savings are translating into lower premiums, all else being equal.
- jdsleppy 3y agoWhy go to the doctor to be told it's a flu or a cold? There's nothing to do but treat yourself well and wait, right? I wonder what portion of visits are for common viruses.
- bshacklett 3y agoMany jobs require a “doctor’s note” for absences.
- hn_throwaway_99 3y agoBecause if it's flu and it's early enough there is treatment (Tamiflu), and it's helpful to differentiate from things like strep, where there is also treatment.