07-12-2024, 07:38 PM
My ortho consultant - I have been his patient now for fifteen years as a research subject - has a thriving private practice. I sing his praises because he is one of the best. One of my neighbours asked to be referred to him for an assessment for cause of hip pain and possible replacement, as a private patient she got an appointment within three weeks. It cost her $400, for a half hour consultation, during which time he explained just what was happening to her hips and prescribed a course of drugs, telling her no replacement was necessary, or would help. One week into the drug regime she walks without pain, she is sleeping well, and feels 100% better.
That's the beauty of the private system. Had she needed a replacement she would have gone on his public system waiting list. Currently around 12 months...
But, if she had been resident in the provinces, or a small country town with no access to such expertise - different story. That patient needs medical insurance, because postcode healthcare is a very real thing in this country. So, $400 well invested don't you think? Or 12 months wait for a $25,000 procedure the system would provide for free with that same surgeon.
And that is why I live in a big city. And have learned patience, lol.
That's the beauty of the private system. Had she needed a replacement she would have gone on his public system waiting list. Currently around 12 months...
But, if she had been resident in the provinces, or a small country town with no access to such expertise - different story. That patient needs medical insurance, because postcode healthcare is a very real thing in this country. So, $400 well invested don't you think? Or 12 months wait for a $25,000 procedure the system would provide for free with that same surgeon.
And that is why I live in a big city. And have learned patience, lol.