(Snippets from the frontline)
COVID-19: The struggling doctor’s office
For 32 years, I have been in private practice in California’s Santa Clarita Valley. I run a small business, have employees, pay taxes, and follow the laws that govern medical care in the state.
My stock-in-trade has been an office with geriatric medical expertise providing housecalls in the community to improve the quality of life for those I serve. At times it has challenges stemming from red tape obstructing needed care, or diminishing reimbursement from insurance companies and government.
Yet I love our growing valley as it has prospered with good schools and businesses welcoming many people of different backgrounds to seek the American dream. I have achieved it with them.
For me and many of my colleagues in private practice, the COVID-19 crisis could jeopardize that dream. Waiting rooms are empty, appointment cancellations escalating, and no walk-in visits. If this was because of great doctoring, I would feel proud and worthy. But no.
I am a scientist and know this virus is dangerous.
The financial resiliency of many medical practices here and around the country will be tested.
But I have confidence we will heal, to again strive for our American dream.
Gene Uzawa Dorio, M.D.
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