Dieter wrote:
>The dilemma is that HMO's and the like are
> pretty much dictating doctors on what treatments they can offer their
> patients. The doctors judgment is severly undermined. A patient can
> therefore have PF surgery under insurance cover, but not the less damaging
> ESWT, which appears to produce outcomes at least comparable to surgical
> intervention. This is frustrating the hell out of a lot of doctors as well
> as patients in the US, and some patients opt to travel to Canada for
> access
> to the treatment. As the doctors can make equal money on either option I
> don't think this reflects a financial bias for using the treatment, but a
> heart-felt opinion that surgery can and does at times damage the patient,
> and it is an unethical choice when there is a viable alternative.
HMO's also often don't pay for prescription orthotic therapy, which is
non-invasive, highly successful, and far less expensive than surgery and
ESWT. But patient's don't travel to Canada for orthotic therapy. Why do US
patients travel to Canada for ESWT? Is it less expensive on a fee for
service basis in Canada? Are you saying they are going to Canada in order
to save money on the procedure?
Respectfully,
Jeff Root
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