According to this website link, it is estimated that 70% of doctors in California are saying NO to participation in the exchange health insurance plans. This is frankly quite scary for the residents of California and anyone who travels there with exchange based insurance. I can’t imagine seeing a doctor assuming insurance will pay, only to find out I’m left holding the entire bill myself. OUCH!

It shouldn’t be a surprise though and I think situations like this will become more and more widespread across the country and doctors refuse to work for free or at a loss. What is the point of becoming a doctor? No, it shouldn’t be for money, and most doctors practice because they want to take care of people. But they also have to take care of their own families. Being a doctor is hard work. It requires many years of advanced education which costs a small fortune. Many doctors don’t start making a decent income until they’re almost 40. Talk about delayed gratification! Yet our government and insurance companies expect these doctors to accept a pittance for payment.

Personally, I’m thrilled that Samaritan Ministries provides a better way. Members don’t have to worry about whether their doctor is participating in anything, we can see any doctor we choose.  Our doctors will be paid a fair rate, we can get the treatment we need, and members pay a reasonable monthly share without any government subsidies. It’s win-win for everyone.