New York Times Examines ‘Concierge’ Care
The New York Times on Sunday examined the increased popularity of "concierge" or "boutique" medical practices, under which patients sign contracts with physicians and agree to pay an annual fee in exchange for extra services, such as longer appointments, shorter waiting times and the ability to call directly. According to the Times, most concierge practices charge patients an annual fee of between $1,500 and $2,000, although some charge as much as $10,000. As many as 250 physicians nationwide have concierge practices, and about 100,000 patients participate. The Times profiles Bernard Kaminetsky, a Florida physician who has a concierge practice, which has decreased his caseload from 2,500 to 600 patients. According to the Times, Kaminetsky, who charges patients an annual fee of $1,650, has used the funds to increase his compensation and that of his office staff by 60%. Most patients praise the services offered by concierge practices, but opponents maintain that such practices violate financial and professional ethics. David Barton Smith, professor of health services administration at Temple University, said, "Philosophically, I think it's appalling," adding, "It's creating a two-class system of medicine" (Zuger [1], New York Times, 10/30).
Contracts for Services
The Times also examined the contracts associated with concierge practices. Experts recommend that patients examine the contracts and services offered by concierge practices, which have "virtually no regulations or oversight," before they agree to participate, the Times reports. Patients must "read the fine print in the contract," Barton Smith said (Zuger [2], New York Times, 10/30).
