Settling The Bill

Dr. Rob, a blogger and doctor, writes about the uninsured:

If I could, I would just charge them enough to remind them they are getting a service from me that does take my time, training, and skill to give.

But it’s not that simple.  Even if I do discount my uninsured to minimal levels, the real problem for me comes when they need labs done, tests run, visits to consultants, or hospitalization.  My charge is nothing compared to the amount they can accrue in these other venues.  This ties my hands as to what I can do for them.  They don’t get the care they need because it is too expensive.