They can't believe a doctor would take that much time with them. In contrast, the AMA standard for a first-time visit is listed as thirty minutes. Dr. Osborne acknowledges that this way of working generates far less profit, but it gives her more of a chance to listen, get information, and figure out what might be wrong. While this prevents her from working with many HMOs and other health plans, she feels that it poses no obstacle to her practice. In fact, she believes that her lack of coverage furthers her aim of building trust, as it pushes her to be as upfront as possible with her patients.
Poor communication is the source of most malpractice suits.
She can see for herself how her patients are getting along in their everyday surroundings, and she might pick up potentially vital information. For instance, she can see whether less mobile folks are getting up and down the stairs, whether there's nutritious and sufficient food in the refrigerator, or if the house is heated well and safely. House calls and phone visits help bring health care within the reach of people for whom transportation poses a problem. This way of working isn't for everyone, she points out. It means living more simply, and learning how to strike a balance between making a living and helping people.