| Why Are Fewer Patients Being Screened for Cancer Worried that your doctor may miss diagnosing cancer? You should be. Busy doctors have less time to examine patients and adequately consider minor changes that may indicate a problem. As a primary care physician's patient population grows, up-to-date screenings for cervical, colorectal and breast cancer tend to decrease. As might be expected, studies also show decreases in practice continuity and comprehensiveness of care as busy doctors attempt to keep up. In a large study, researchers found that as panel size increased the likelihood of being up-to-date on cervical, colorectal, and breast cancer screening decreases. As the number of patients seen increased there was also an increase in hospitalization rates for ambulatory-care-sensitive conditions and non- urgent emergency department visits. In part, the problem is an America moving toward “fast medicine.” Just as many like McDonalds, many want fast health care. Unfortunately, fast healthcare is no healthier than Big Macs with a 32 oz soda. Still, many will prefer fast health care at urgent care centers and emergency rooms. Some doctors have decided that McDonalds care isn’t what they feel comfortable providing. These are doctors that want to provide quality care, take time to listen, take time to make good medical decisions and take time to teach. Call it slow medicine if you like. Compared with the alternative, it’s a bargain over a lifetime. Tell Me More about Concierge Physicians in Huntsville, Alabama. Exit |