There is a firewall that exists between doctors and billing. Or maybe it's blissful ignorance. I have noticed doctors often have no idea what their tests and procedures will cost the patient.
Moreover, a doctor's vocal tone often changes when discussing cost. The tone changes from friendly/caring to annoyed/defensive.
> I have noticed doctors often have no idea what their tests and procedures will cost the patient.
Maybe they don't know the amounts, but they are forced to know a lot about how the billing process works. For example, my company develops a product that helps doctors create documentation in a way that makes it more likely they will get reimbursed by insurance companies with the least amount of hassle and push back.
Also, they probably have no idea what it will cost you until the insurance company and hospital fight it out over the price.
> The tone changes from friendly/caring to annoyed/defensive.
Every doctor is triggered by having to deal with bureaucratic insurance and billing processes that consume their time and keep them from spending more time on treating patients. You are sensing their barely controlled rage at the system.
(This is all for the US system, probably not true in most other countries.)
Moreover, a doctor's vocal tone often changes when discussing cost. The tone changes from friendly/caring to annoyed/defensive.
I don't think the firewall can last forever.