As physicians and surgeons, we are accustomed to the traditional title of "Doctor." Unlike an inherited symbol of aristocracy, contemporary titles include Judge, Mayor, Nurse, Officer, as well as Doctor. These titles actually signify a professional and an individual who is committed to a career of service mixed with an idealism above and beyond the mundane endeavors of earning wages or collecting a paycheck. However, at a recent meeting we attended, we heard complaints by our colleagues about what we are being called and the way we are being treated. These titles include "worker bees," "health care providers," "health care practitioners," "prescription writers," "caregivers," and "prescribers!"Since the inception of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), we have to admit that there have been profound and fundamental changes to our surgical practice, especially in the hospital setting. This is due to the rapid advances in technology, mega medical insurance companies' influence, government interference, hospitals' control, and an evolving alteration of the traditional surgeon-patient relationship.
展开▼
