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My G.P.'s office asks me, when I call, what I want to see the doctor about so that they can schedule the appropriate amount of time. I really appreciate that because it allows her to stay on schedule and I can count on my issues being addressed and not having to come back for another visit to "finish up".
Two months ago I called her office and told them I wanted to talk to her about my situation dealing with husband who has cancer that is probably terminal. They scheduled extra time for me and I had to opportunity to bring her up to date with our situation, what I was currently doing/not doing, and what effects this was having on me. I was able ti discuss some options, including prescription sleeping aids, able to ask her about support groups, her experience with patients dealing with this, etc. I left feeling much better, knowing some things to do and some a sleep aid prescription if I wanted to use it, and knowing that I can check back in with her if I need/want to as this proceeds.
She had to bill my insurance company for an extended office visit and diagnosis. It was more expensive than a standard, short visit where I might've come in with a sinus infection and needed a quick exam and an RX for antibiotics.
So, yes, I think that the time it takes to counsel a patient and/or their family will require specific compensation in the future because of the amount of time it takes.
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