Can I ever work for the poor and pay off my medical bills? In my typical optimistic manner, I trust that I can, although the practical components of my future financial plan are, well, as of yet unidentified. I am fascinated by a medical practice that can accept no insurance and flourish, providing what I am sure is state-of-the-art, elite care. My question is, how can I provide such care for the poorest of the poor? Surprisingly, I guess I am not appalled by those who view our profession as purely business. I just want to harness that economical prowess (a gift that I do not have) and put it to work for a good cause.
Is it unprofessional to provide good care and be highly reimbursed for it? I don't think so. Is it professionally unfair for some to have the capability to pay highly for superb care and for others to not have the resources even for minimal care? Yes. Perhaps even objectively yes. Can the health care establishment exist successfully with such dichotomies? I don't know. Our government is trying to figure out this very thing right now. As medical professionals, so must we.
I think you are addressing some very important issues in your note, above.
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