Paging Dr. Doctor

Another argument for throwing more doctors at the health care crisis, instead of more insurance.

The other day, I wondered here why the health care reform debate offers us a middleman first—insurance—when what people really need are doctors. There’s an argument today in The Atlantic for lowering America’s spending on health care by … creating more doctors! Simple supply and demand. More doctors in the market means lower prices for seeing a doctor. Key quote: “Maybe rather than plowing billions into universal healthcare, the government should plow millions into universities for medical programs.”

I just tried to make an appointment for a routine physical. The doctor would be glad to see me, said the receptionist. He has an opening in 43 days.

Yes, we need more doctors.