The facts of life, however, are that not only are physician unions the wrong solution, they would be counterproductive and would, ultimately, produce a result exactly opposite from the original intent. Those involved in these efforts need to stop now and think again, for they run the danger of doing themselves and the rest of us an enormous, irreversible disservice. Three suggestions come to mind. Unfortunately, this enlightenment came in most quarters after the middlemen had already virtually taken over control of the practice of medicine. Of course not.
Patients turn to physicians.
Beyond this, physicians are in the best position of anyone to develop workable treatment protocols, conduct meaningful peer review and undertake the many other projects and tasks that bring value and progress to our health care system. Third, physicians need to recognize that they are not picking grapes or working on an assembly line. Instead of forming unions to clamor for salaries, benefits and petty privileges, physicians need to take steps to reestablish the direct link of service and accountability with consumers. If this is approached properly, consumers will respond. Several occurrences are fueling the momentum toward direct contracting.