Can On-Demand Health Care End Surprise Billing?
The rise of the on-demand economy has transformed everything from groceries to dog walking, and now it’s taking on health care. But can this shift really solve the issue of surprise medical bills?
The Growth of On-Demand Health Care
More than 22 million Americans spend nearly $58 billion annually on on-demand services, from food delivery to home services. Now, health care startups are offering at-home doctor visits, urgent care, and even hangover treatments with just a click.
- Convenience at Your Doorstep: Companies like Heal and Pager provide non-emergency health care at home, while The I.V. Doc offers treatments for hangovers and the flu. Capsule delivers prescriptions right to your door.
- Enhanced Access: "We're focused on access to care," says Greg Drobnick, co-founder of Heal. With partnerships with major insurers, Heal aims to eliminate unexpected costs by providing full price transparency upfront.
Image Description: A doctor visiting a patient at home, providing on-demand health care services, exemplifying the convenience of this emerging trend.
Could Convenience Come at a Cost?
While on-demand health care offers unmatched convenience, it may not be the most cost-effective solution for everyone:
- Reduced Costs Overall: By keeping patients out of hospitals and traditional doctor's offices, on-demand care could lower overall health care costs, according to Drobnick. Early detection of issues through these services can prevent expensive emergency room visits, which average nearly $1,400.
- Potential Drawbacks: Glenn Melnick, a professor of health care finance, warns that while on-demand services save time for patients, they might limit the number of patients doctors can see, potentially driving up costs.
The Sustainability Question
Nancy Nielsen, Senior Associate Dean for Health Policy at the University of Buffalo, raises concerns about the sustainability of on-demand health care. For patients with chronic conditions requiring long-term, coordinated care, the personal touch of regular doctor visits may be irreplaceable.
Image Description: A visual representation of rising healthcare costs, highlighting concerns about the sustainability of on-demand health care models.
Conclusion
While on-demand health care is making strides in accessibility and transparency, it may not be the silver bullet for surprise billing or the best solution for everyone. Patients with chronic conditions or those needing continuous care might still require traditional health care relationships. However, for non-emergency needs, this new model offers a promising alternative.
