For the past two days I've been lurking on IT's end-of-life thread and today, when I read the newest cost postings, it dawned on me that last Tuesday, here in the red state of Alabama, I may have seen a wave of the future. I had an appointment with my most recent internist. Upon arrival I was given a sheet explaining some new charges.

"Unfortunately, due to inadequate reimbursement from Insurance Companies and Medicare, we have to start charging for the following services:"

$25 for phone calls requiring the pulling of your chart--unless you were in the for same problem less than 2 weeks prior.

$30 for calls not during business hours--unless it's a true emergency and the patient winds up in the hospital.

$25-$100 for forms to be completed by physicians.

$40 for missed appointments requiring reviews by a physician.

So, whatta ya think? Good medical care will still be available for people who can pay for it. That's how red doctors here in this red state are handling government interference. Anyone encountering anything similar?










Last edited by humphreysmar; 03/09/10 08:01 PM.
Currently reading: Best American Mystery Stories edited by Lee Child and Otto Penzler. AARGH!