It was entirely customary for patients to discuss costs and negotiate fees with their providers before the service was rendered. Subsequently, in the post World War II modern healthcare era, consumers have learned to feel a great deal of reluctance in inquiring about healthcare costs with providers. As insurance companies and HMOs began paying for the majority of care, the discussion over cost of service virtually ceased. Physicians and consumers had forgotten about the price of care because neither party had to discuss, negotiate or even agree upon the issue up-front before the bill was to be paid. As we know, times have changed.
Consumer behavior has to change as well.
Health plans are paying less and health services and medications cost more. Patients are expected to pay more for the cost of care. It is time for patients to speak up about both quality of care and cost. Please click to visit our site.