Can private practice doctors create their own insurance/discount program

[Princeod2583]

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Since most doctors are unhappy with the way VSP is reimbursing them in a private practice setting, would there be a way for private practice OD's to set up their own vision plan exclusive to only private practice docs? The p.p. OD's would set up an insurance system or discount program through an individual's flexible spending account or medical spending account. The individual's would be able to use their F.S.A at their preferred private practice O.D's office. essentially the patient would benefit because these are tax free dollars set aside for needed healthcare costs. The provider in return, agrees to provide care at a predetermined cost and only discounting services at a rate that seems fair. you cut out the middle man (insurance companies) while still providing a benefit to both parties. The plan would be similar to dental discount plans, allowing all private practice doctors in the area to accept this plan and give the patient a fair value in relation to the exam they provide and the goods dispensed. These rates would have to be determined by a panel that creates the entity itself. I 'd assume the AOA would never agree to this, but since the new AOS is so pro private practice, I would have them endorse it instead. This would take all p.p. docs being on the same page (hard to do, since some are still dependent on v.s.p). The plane would have to be sponsored by O.D.s who intent on keeping patient's interest in mind.
Is there anti-trust laws that would be violated if such a plan is created? What do you guys think, feasible or no?

 

[NCiDOC]

Feasible and already done.

Many states have private practice ODs that work together to form a panel to present to businesses for a discount off of their services. Kansas is one state that does it very well.

If you are on a VSP panel, you agree in your contract not to compete with them in any manner so you have to be careful which companies you go to or you can lose your status on their panel.

Also, many doctors have their own in-house discount eye care plan which allows employers to provide discounted services for their employees at no cost.

There are a lot of ways to make this work and it is worth the time/effort if you do it right