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Concierge medicine: legal issues, ethical dilemmas, and policy challenges

Robert M Portman1, Kate Romanow

  • 1Powers, Pyles, Sutter & Verville, PC in Washington, DC, USA. rob.portman@ppsv.com

Journal of Health & Life Sciences Law
|May 30, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Concierge medicine, a growing practice model with subscription fees, presents legal and ethical challenges. This innovative care offers personalized, proactive medical services, potentially improving access to preventive healthcare for more patients.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Practice Management
  • Healthcare Economics
  • Bioethics

Background:

  • Physician practices face increasing economic and legal pressures.
  • Concierge medicine, also known as retainer medicine, involves charging patients access or subscription fees.
  • This model is experiencing steady growth.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the legal and contractual issues associated with concierge medicine.
  • To discuss the ethical dilemmas and health policy implications of this practice model.
  • To evaluate the benefits of concierge medicine for patients and the healthcare system.

Main Methods:

  • Review of legal and contractual frameworks relevant to retainer medicine.
  • Analysis of ethical considerations for physicians and patients.
  • Discussion of health policy implications and potential impacts.

Main Results:

  • Concierge medicine presents significant legal hazards, contractual challenges, and ethical dilemmas.
  • The practice offers a beneficial alternative for patients seeking personalized, proactive, and intensive medical care.
  • Potential exists for wider adoption and affordability through diverse practice models and fee structures.

Conclusions:

  • Concierge medicine represents an innovative practice model with the potential to enhance patient care.
  • Addressing legal, contractual, and ethical issues is crucial for its sustainable growth.
  • Policy makers should encourage models that increase affordability and access to preventive healthcare.

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