Economy Hurts Practices, Helps Research

MIAMI -- At Prime Care, Dr. Jeffrey Rosen can't help but notice how the economy is impacting patients in his busy practice.

"We are seeing more people canceling or not showing up for appointments. We're seeing more patients calling up on the phone to discuss things without having to make an appointment. And we are seeing more patients requesting generic medicine than usual," said Dr. Rosen.

Dr. Rosen also runs a clinical research office.

Being involved in trials for free medication means free medical care.

Ronald Pedrero has no medical insurance so he decided to participate in the study.

"I don't have to spend anything. I don't have to spend any money because I don't have health insurance like I don't know how many Americans because of the economy," said Pedrero.

Skipping doctors visits because of cost.

That is what 25% of respondents did in 2008.

Compared to 18% in 2007 according to a recent survey.

When it comes to procedures that are not medically necessary, patients are cutting back on nipping and tucking.

A growing number of people are tightening their belts instead of their tummies.

According to a survey taken this spring, 53% of cosmetic surgeons said business is down, some as much as 30%.

In south Florida, many patients are opting less expensive procedures to look younger.

"The interesting thing is we are seeing more patients but the patients are dedicating less and less funds to plastic surgery. I've seen probably a drop of 30% over the last year" said Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Eduardo Barroso.

While business is booming in clinics where patients can get free or low cost health care.

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