Consumerism, just like transparency, is a current industry buzz word. It is thrown around like everyone knows exactly what “healthcare consumerism” means. However, consumerism often refers to the “derogatory” idea of society being preoccupied with the acquisition of consumer goods. Since healthcare consumerism is intended to represent a more positive movement, I am going to lay it all out on the table.
Consumerism, in relation to healthcare, is about moving past the perception that someone else is responsible to make decisions for us. We need to shift our thinking to be more actively engaged in our health and healthcare decisions.
Think about it – active participation and education prior to decision-making occurs in almost every other industry and consumer purchase… e.g. automobiles, electronics, home buying. Why are we so inclined to remain a bystander when it comes to healthcare? We need to move past the era of the passive patient.
Lets imagine the improvement we would see if we paid attention to our healthcare costs in the same way we paid attention to the price of cars and new electronics and sought out the best price for the best services.
It may appear to be a daunting task, but with the right tools and information, individuals can be empowered to make smarter healthcare consumer decisions that reflect their personal values. This is where understanding the true cost of healthcare (i.e. transparency) comes into play.
In a world where consumers require healthcare providers to compete for our business, we will all benefit from lower prices, better services and advances in technology that improve our healthcare system.
Transparency, accountability and competition. Maybe, actually, in that order.
So, what can you do?
Encourage transparency. You have a right to know how much a service will cost. One surgery center might charge $27,000 for knee surgery while another local facility charges $17,000. This is important, especially if they have the same quality ratings. (If you say, “It doesn’t matter to me, I have insurance,” you are part of the problem. Would you still say that if you were paying for your entire premium and did not receive help from your employer?)
Be accountable for your healthcare decisions… become a smarter healthcare consumer. Find doctors and facilities that charge appropriately for their services and have high quality ratings.
Make providers compete for your business. Know what you are looking for from your primary care physician and other healthcare providers. Know what quality means to you. That’s part of actively participating in your health.
Something has to change in healthcare… and the simpliest place to start is with yourself.