IntMedDoc,
Welcome to AC. A lot of do share your sentiments. And, yes the refills, etc. are frustrating. As I read your note, I can't help but see some upside to your situation that many of us don't have.
First, you do have the option of setting up a concierge practice with cash only (if that would be financially feasible).
Second, I think you could do what Leslie has done and start right off the bat with a website and setting rules that your patients quickly become familiar with. You could even pre-screen your patients to weed out those who may "fit the profile" for the above that you mention that are problematic.
Third, don't do hospital or hospital call.
Fourth, per above don't do any refills or other inappropriate things during office hours.
Fifth, (and this depends on the other doctor's standard of care for call) you can set up your call system anyway you wish. I think (I have seen other doctors do this) you could have an answering machine that simply says you are closed, leave a message or go to the ER.
Sixth, the fewer the residents that go into primary care, the more of a shortage. Supply and demand dictates that our lot has to get better.
We do very little, if nothing, to improve out bottom line. Why we don't stand up to Medicaid and Medicare and other 3rd party payers is beyond me. All of us should cancel our AAP, AAFP, AMA and local medical society groups until they start lobbying for better conditions, mainly better reimbursement.
How many General Motors workers would be willing to pay union dues if all they got were weekly email newsletters and a free online subscription to "Oil Changes in Chevrolets."
Again, welcome to the Amazing Charts community. Can you give us your first name. It is easier and more personal than IntMedDoc.
And, misery loves company.
