The Medical Freedom Channel

“John Simmonds has a doctor who regularly calls to check on him. And Simmonds isn’t even sick. ‘It’s a personal touch that you are not going to get otherwise,’ said Simmonds, who has allergies and mild back and knee problems. This kind of special attention isn’t cheap, though. Simmonds, 59, is a patient at Marable Personal Healthcare in Franklin, a primary-care practice that offers what’s known as ’boutique medicine’ or ‘concierge care.’ Patients pay an annual fee, or retainer. In return, they receive same-day appointments, no waiting, examinations that last at least 30 minutes, home visits, a comprehensive annual physical, 24-hour access to their physician via cell phone and other perks.” [editor’s note: This is somewhat peripheral to the battle for healthcare reform, but may represent another pathway for some folks. - SAT] (03/01/07)