Here are five observations:
1. The survey noted more than 13 percent of physicians plan to start practicing concierge or direct pay medicine eventually.
2. Concierge medicine physicians see fewer patients as they build a personalized relationship with each patient.
3. The visits tend to be longer than traditional primary care appointments, and the physicians discuss diet, exercise and overall wellness plans with patients.
4. Many concierge physicians also offer patients their cell phone numbers. The intent is for more patients to stay out of urgent care centers or emergency rooms as they can access a primary care physician quickly.
5. Critics of concierge medicine argue the model is too expensive for patients.
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