"The 18-Second Doctor":
How PinnacleCare helps you get the time and care you deserve

A recent article in U.S. News and World Report titled “The 18-Second Doctor” features an interview with physician and author Dr. Jerome Groopman about his new book “How Doctors Think.” Dr. Groopman asserts that the time-crunch doctors face has a serious negative effect on the way they diagnose patients. Groopman believes this can lead to misdiagnoses and the delivery of less than adequate care. Groopman worries that these time pressures may have an effect on the next generation of physicians.

“…at the end of rounds on that September morning I found myself feeling disturbed. I was concerned about the lack of give-and-take among the (medical) trainees, but even more I was disappointed with myself as their teacher. I concluded that these very bright and very affable medical students, interns, and residents all too often failed to question cogently or listen carefully or observe keenly. They were not thinking deeply about their patients' problems. Something was profoundly wrong with the way they were learning to solve clinical puzzles and care for people.”

The doctor patient relationship is the foundation of optimum health and early detection. Physicians nationwide want to provide excellent care, yet their time and the time of their staffs struggles are squeezed by insurance, regulatory and administrative demands.

PinnacleCare offers an innovated way to combat the 18-second doctor syndrome for physician and patient alike. We focus attention on each Members’ individual needs and concerns, providing the support and expertise of a personal PinnacleCare Advocate™ who acts as a guide through the harried, confusing maze of the American healthcare system. From helping Members find the best practitioners and gaining access to the right physicians to providing objective, in-depth information and research on any health topic. We are committed to helping our Members receive the top quality care and attention they deserve.