The fact that doctors are paid 'on commission' is one of the reasons healthcare costs have skyrocketed in the past two decades, according to President Obama's administration heading up the overhaul of the American healthcare system.

In an article reported by the New York Times, "doctors in the United States are usually paid fees for each service they provide. The more procedures and tests they order, the more money they pocket. There is widespread agreement among health policy analysts that many of these procedures are unnecessary, raising costs in ways that often do nothing to improve patient health."

Enter Basset Healthcare, a "modest hospital of 180 beds" that delivers high-quality care at low costs. Unlike the majority of doctor payment systems, Basset pays its doctors on a salary; no matter how many tests and procedures they order or perform, doctors take home the same pay, day in and day out.

While Basset is wildly successful, with doctors who are deeply dedicated to its mission, some national agencies and organizations oppose the idea. The American Medical Association for example has continually rallied against changing the fee-for-service system that rules American healthcare.

Whether you're a salaried or paid-by-fee doctor, using an independent review organization is a great way to cut costs while simultaneously ensuring that your patient is getting the treatment and tests needed for optimum health and care.

To read the full article, click here: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/25/health/policy/25doctors.html?em