Clinical Practice: A New Model

A new model of clinical practice is the subject of a very interesting article in the New York Times today. Some doctors, in an effort to provide better care for their patients, are changing the way they practice medicine. By taking matters into their own hands, doctors are decreasing their administrative costs, are able to spend more time with patients and have greater personal and professional fulfillment through the practice of medicine. The Obama administration hopes to increase pay for primary care physicians and has set aside money for the development of community health centers. But, until these reforms occur, some doctors are already embracing change.

On a purely anecdotal level, many of my friends and colleagues who practice primary care, enjoy the practice of medicine more and have a better work/life balance than those who specialize. I encourage all of my medical school applicants and residency applicants to consider careers in primary care.