Consumer Perspective . . . againby Career Changer (no login)My sister's accident left her with a few large, very deep wounds that needed several skin grafts; that is why I think a podiatrist would have been just as appropriate, if not more appropriate, than a PT for the post-op care (this went on for almost a year). What I am saying is that if I have to pay OUT-OF-POCKET, then podiatry IS the cheaper way for me to go. I am aware of medical billing and how it works for both, the insured and the non-insured patient. Please do not equate cheaper with substandard care; that is not my intent with this message. I think podiatrists are very competent and COST EFFECTIVE; it is just unfortunate that many patients/consumers are not aware of the variety of services that you can offer. Yes, I know there is a big difference between MDs/DOs and ODs. ODs and DPMs are similar in that they are not whole body physicians. My attraction to the OD is my desire not to do any surgery and still be able to provide primary and preventative care (besides, I think optics is an interesting area). I have shadowed several ODs and spoken to even more of them about all aspects of the profession. They have all been very helpful. The MD/DO option is actually my second choice. I have also been speaking with them and will begin volunteering the the emergency room with them (yes, both types of physicians) next week. (I have investigated attidudes between and among the professions; however, this is not my primary concern.) All I am saying is that me, the insurance paying patient, will not see a podiatrist as long as my health insurance does not cover it. I have been fortunate enough to have health insurance that covered all of my ailments (fallen arches and toenail issues). I think it is a shame that more health insurance plans do not pay for podiatric care. Hopefully, you all will spread the word about the benefits that you can offer patients. Thank you for wishing me good luck. from IP address 152.163.213.56 Goto Forum Home |
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