From: Robert Kornfeld, DPM
As we can see from this article about out-of-network physician fees, BIG BROTHER is going to step in and CONTROL the amount that these doctors can charge. Does anyone else see the inherent danger here? In a free market, such as the one we supposedly have, consumers get to decide the value of goods and services and then decide for themselves how to spend their money. The only thing that should be "required" is complete disclosure as to whether or not a doc is out-of-network and, if so, what are his/her fees.
As an out-of-network doctor who charges patients at the time of their visit and has NOTHING to do with third-party payments, I am appalled that any insurance company can fund a bill to control what any physician charges. Why are we not controlling the costs of ALL goods and services? How dare any Mercedes Benz dealer charge more for their cars than Hyundai? I believe that ALL cars should cost no more than a Hyundai, regardless of the engineering and cost of production.
I also think it is time we stepped in and put a stop to butchers charging more for filet mignon than for hamburgers. How dare they! It is time to put cap costs on EVERYTHING! As a matter of fact, all homes should cost no more than $100,000, regardless of where they are or the square footage. Enough price gouging. Oh yes, and by the way, execs at all health insurance companies should be paid minimum wage! Who is with me?
Robert Kornfeld, DPM, Port Washington, NY
