I used to "discuss" compliance with patients until I was blue in the face and running so late I had a waiting room full of angry patients. After almost 30 years, I have grown weary of trying to convince patients that they should listen to me rather than Dr. Oz or the pharmacy tech at Walgreens. I simply tell them I want them to have heard my recommendations and advice because that is what they (or rather their insurance) is paying me for and then they can make their decision. They are adults, I am not their parent and they are free (for the time being) to make their own health care decisions. I do many times, however, tell them that in the very near future they may not have that luxury of making their own decisions. I warn them that insurance companies are beginning to put more of the onus on the patient and that they may no longer cover or will increase premiums of patients who refuse to comply with current standards of care. More and more employers are also demanding that their employees participate in "Wellness" programs.
I have always documented in their chart their decision not to take my advice but, Jon, I was unaware there were codes for this as well. I thank you for that.
