Laser specialisits profiting off rosacea?

[Jordan]

It seems quite ridiculous to me that laser specialists can charge up and around $700 dollars per laser treatment. Does it really cost that much to operate a laser-treatment machine? Especially considering the fact that insurance does not cover laser treatment. Most of us rosaceans are in the middle-class range, and do not have money for ludicrously expensive laser treatments. If we did, we wouldn't be on these forums because we would just throw down several grand and say fix me. Of course I'm ignorant because I don't know how much operating costs of the laser are. It seems to me that derms should let go of making so much money and a help a few people out. Just my 2 cents.



Jordan

I was thinking of this the other day and my first thought was there should be differing charges for those who are wanting treatments for cosmetic purposes; ie wrinkles etc and those who obviously have a skin condition such as rosacea.

But then i thought that that still wouldn't work for people like myself who look 'normal' most of the time and yet still flush and burn most days. Most IPL people ive been to have said that i don't have rosacea because their idea of rosacea is a red face with papules and pustules.

Aside from that i do know that the machines are hideously expensive and so some of the treatment price would go towards paying off loans. however i am sure there is plenty of profit in there as well.

I would say however that if you find a practioner you like and you know that you will have to see them, say, 8 times a year, don't be afraid to talk to them about a discount. They need the repeat business that rosaceans provide, so ask if they would knock 10% off each treatment or agree to pay for 5 for the price of 4, something like that. Behind the white coat they are human and many are sympathetic to the plight of the situation we find ourselves in.

[fut]

Jordan,

You have to remember that IPL to treat rosacea is still widely thought of as a cosmetic procedure. Funny how there are plastic surgeons who work pro-bono but none that I am aware of that perform IPL.

Hopefully as time progresses, IPLs become wider and better put to use and everyone starts to see Rosacea for what it really is, then, maybe you might find soem relief for cheaper.

[Jordan]

You both post with good points; and Sally, the laser specialist that I had a consultation with is giving me a 5 for 4 discount, but I'm not sure I'm going to go to him. (Dr. Mark B Taylor, Utah)

[ian]

Unfortunately this trend extends beyond just laser specialists. Too many physicians these days try to be business men first, and physicians second. It's a shame really.

[Kelli]

Unfortunately, with the amount of lawsuits against them, and the amount of insurance it costs to be a physician, sometimes I can't blame them. BUT - and that's a BIG BUT - I do think there are imes when they need to put that aside and realize what they are doing to patients who ARE willing to pay. They genuinely want help!

But, that's a lot to ask, too.