Boomers Bumming
Here is a nice AP article talking about the primary care doctors shortage. In rural Oregon they are barely even keeping the docs they have. One area where it has really become evident is Josephine County. The place has attracted retirees because of the “low taxes, cheap housing, wineries, a symphony and low traffic”, which put it in top 10 lists for retirement communities. Maybe in the future these top 10 lists should put family doctor availability as criteria instead of wineries? And where is the AARP with all their power? Maybe it is time for them to demand a method (more pay) to increase the amount of primary care doctors in this country!
The AMA News had an article about patients having a problem getting a doctor when they retire to the rural areas. In our state the average rural MD is over 60 years old. When some of my patients moved to Lincoln or Omaha, to be closer to their kids, they could not find a doc who would take Medicare or Medicaid. They come back to our town of 1000 for care.
This involves a 150 to 200 mile round trip.
I think it’s funny. The retirees think they deserve health care on the cheap, and golly, no one who can provid it actually wants to. Serves ’em right. Enjoy your your retirement Fred & Ethel – I don’t care, because in great part thanks to you, I won’t be getting one.
I am not an MD. I am a retired baby boomer with various health issues like DM. I want you to know that I am on your side. I understand your issues with patients who are looking for a free ride to quality healthcare. I am a retiree who refused Medicaire when I turned 65 last year. Why? I don’t have a simple answer other than my “conscience would not let me.” I am fortunate that I have adequate private insurance. But, it does not cover my healthcare expenses 100%. If I had Medicaire, I would be covered 100%, at an additional cost of $100/mo. I refused Medicaire, not because of this added cost, but because…I don’t really know. I love my doctors and the quality of medical care I receive. I think it is a disgrace the amount of coverage they provide. So, I deeply feel my doctors deserve better to the point I pay for my healthcare out of pocket if requred. I apologize for retired baby boomers who are looking for a free ride in healthcare and there are many.
Personally, Medicare should morph or change. It should allow balance billing like a dentist to that most of your medical care is covered for a doctor but he may bill more. It is then up to you to shop around. Right now, as a physician, my family has catastrophic coverage only and a Health Savings Account. If I have to shop around so should others.
Sue, that was a tough call, and maybe even a tough response to write. I respect your stand of conscience more than I can tell, and wish I could shake your hand. Having patients like you who even though considered the big picture would make it so much easier and pleasurable to do this job. Thank you, sincerely.