Should doctors bill like lawyers?

Should doctors bill like lawyers? This question has sparked considerable debate in healthcare circles, especially as medical practices face increasing administrative burdens and economic pressures.

Currently, most physicians provide significant "unbilled" services including phone calls, emails, prescription refills, and follow-up communications. Unlike lawyers who typically bill for every interaction, doctors traditionally include these services as part of comprehensive patient care.

Some argue that physicians should be compensated for all professional time, including:

• Detailed email responses requiring medical expertise
• Phone consultations that prevent unnecessary office visits
• Time spent coordinating care with other providers
• After-hours communication and urgent consultations

This model could potentially improve physician sustainability and reduce burnout by properly valuing all professional services.

However, the traditional medical model emphasizes the doctor-patient relationship and comprehensive care. Many physicians believe that charging for every interaction could:

• Create barriers to necessary communication
• Discourage patients from seeking timely guidance
• Fundamentally alter the therapeutic relationship
• Potentially compromise patient safety and outcomes

The reality is that healthcare economics are complex. While physicians deserve fair compensation for their expertise and time, the primary focus must remain on patient care and accessibility.

Some practices have found middle-ground solutions, such as offering premium communication services for non-urgent matters while maintaining free access for medical concerns and established patients.

This discussion highlights broader issues in healthcare including physician burnout, administrative burden, and the need for sustainable practice models. Rather than simply adopting legal billing practices, the medical community needs innovative solutions that support both physician wellbeing and patient care.

Ultimately, the goal should be creating a healthcare system that values physician expertise while maintaining the accessibility and trust that define quality medical care.