Should I seek out a Concierge Physician or an Advocate

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Concierge medicine (also known as retainer medicine) is a relationship between a patient and a primary care physician, usually an Internal Medicine doctor, in which the patient pays an annual fee or retainer. This may or may not be in addition to other charges. In exchange for the retainer, doctors provide enhanced care, including principally a commitment to limit patient loads to ensure adequate time and availability for each patient.

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We, and Advocates in general, are not physicians.

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If you have a physician, either a general practitioner or internal medicine doctor, available to you, and you are completely satisfied and comfortable with his or her service, you may not need an Advocate. However, if an unusual or complicated health issue arises, and you want to ensure you are being referred to the best possible practitioner or facility, then an Advocate can be of immeasurable help.

 

Advocates may come from a health care background, such as nurses, or others who have significant experience working in the health care delivery industry. No matter their credentials, they should be expected to be professionals.

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Where do you start?

 

Too often people are left confused, scared and overwhelmed following a medical diagnosis, emergency or a significant life change, and searching desperately for information and support. True North brings years of experience to bear on any problem the healthcare system can present. Through careful research and education, Tom Vachet will empower you to navigate the system and make well-informed decisions.

 

Which specialists do you consult? What will insurance cover? What does the medical jargon mean, and what are the next steps in terms of seeking treatment, paying bills and making sense of it all?

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Consider the 80/20 rule which says 20% of physicians range from excellent to world class, 80% are good to very good, and the final 20% are poor to criminal.

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It's not so much about locating to 80%, it's avoiding the bottom 20%. So then, when your very life is in the balance, how do you avoid calamity? How do you find your way to the best in class, and avoid a mistake that can be lifelong. Many, just like when trying to find a good roofer or auto mechanic, turn to well-intended family members, pastors, golf partners, or sometimes, just the next-door neighbor. We know how to guide you to those, and then ensure they do their best.

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Tom Vachet saw firsthand how difficult these choices can be when he was providing consulting services to patients and even insurance companies. He was responsible for evaluating patient treatment plans for effectiveness, and Tom watched individuals and families try to pick up the pieces and make huge decisions in the wake of tragic accidents and unexpected diagnoses. Tom also saw how the system can work to a patient's benefit when a Nurse Case Manager was involved.

 

Tom Vachet founded True North because I believe that every person, and every family deserves the best access to resources, information and advice necessary in making sound medical decisions. He also wants you to know that you are not alone and that you have an experienced, compassionate team by your side.

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Here are some of the many things Tom can do to help:

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• Locate the best physicians trained to address your problem; vet them, check academic credentials, experience, affiliations, and reputation. And provide you with a number of options.

• Intercede to speed up the time of your appointment.

• Prepare yourself for your appointment, and/or accompany you if you would like.

• Discuss and explain the physician's findings, tests performed, and recommendations.

• Arrange for second opinions.

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