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Where did the preferred old days of extended doctor –patient relationships go, in today’s healthcare system? Many are not only asking the question, but both physicians and patients are taking steps to get back to more of an extended knowledge and quality time relationship.  Both physicians and patients are meeting their needs by joining the ranks of over 4400 primary care physicians practicing concierge medicine. Concierge medicine or “direct care” is a growing trend whereby the patient pays the physician an additional  financial “retainer” (annually or by month) for enhanced benefits such as: 24/7 access, cell phone access, no wait times for appts, coordination of care and longer visit times.

Although there is controversy as to whether or not this delivery model promotes a two tiered health system, both patient and physician satisfaction levels are quite high.  Physicians typically have more time to spend with patients during in office appointments as they care for a much smaller patient population (about 300-1000) than the traditional practice (3000-4000 patients).  Typical services not included with a concierge physician: labs, ER visits, hospitalizations, medications, and consults outside of the practice.

Join concierge provider Dr. Ellie Campbell and Michael Tetreault, Editor-In-Chief of Concierge Medicine Today, as they discuss this growing trend from both a local medical practice and national trend perspective. Listeners can visit: www.campbellfamilymedicine.com and www.conciergemedicinetoday.com for more information on our great guests.

Dr. Eleanor Campbell

• DO from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine
• Residency  in Family Medicine from Medical College of GA
• Board certified in Family Medicine
• Private practice in Cumming, GA since 2005

Michael Tetreault

• Editor of  national publication, Concierge Medicine Today