Currently, only half of physicians offer either one. He suggests physicians look for ways to extend their hours via email services or 24-hour phone lines. The PWC report draws a parallel to the airline industry, where consumers select an airline rather than an individual pilot. Being part of an internet network will become a powerful marketing tool, experts said. Hospitals, health plans, medical associations and even independent web sites are enlisting physicians to become part of their e-networks.
Consumers already can choose some physicians based on web profiles.
Still, experts advise physicians to be cautious about any Internet alliances, particularly regarding issues of patient confidentiality. But they also say physicians can no longer sit back and watch how the electronic environment evolves. The latter group will have a difficult time surviving, he predicts, and even the middle group better watch out. Christine Wiebe is a freelance writer who specializes in health and medical issues. She lives in Providence, Utah.