November/ December Ethics Reader Poll

The Fee-for-Service (FFS) model is a payment structure where health care providers are compensated for each individual service or procedure they perform. This can include office visits, tests, and surgeries. The more services provided, the more the provider earns.

Advantages of fee-for-service (FFS) can encourage health care providers to offer a wider range of services, which can lead to comprehensive care. It also provides patients more options for specialists and treatments since providers are paid per service. However, FFS has its drawbacks. Providers may be incentivized to perform unnecessary tests and procedures, leading to higher health care costs. It can result in a lack of coordination among providers, affecting overall patient care. And patients may face higher out-of-pocket expenses due to the volume of services rendered.

Overall, while the FFS model has benefits in terms of flexibility and service availability, it also poses challenges related to cost and care quality.