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Freedom to Choose

To the Editor:

When I'm asked the question, "How're you doing?" referring to my recent semi-retirement, my answer surprises even me! "Nice and slow," is my usual reply. "Nice and slow" ... an unheard of answer just a short while ago. In the "old days" at the health maintenance organization, I'd consider it a slow day when I saw 25 to 30 patients! Here, at my limited practice at home, 4 to 5 patients each morning is ideal. In today's bustling market-conscious venue, a slow day could be disastrous. Advertising, marketing, outright solicitation, and third-party management attempt to keep the volume high, overhead low, and productivity at peak at all times. I guess we old-timers are more concerned with patient satisfaction and good clinical results than the "bottom-line" worshipers of today. That's not to infer that quality care and favorable outcomes are not sought under managed care....

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