At 4:15 Dr. Wilkinson is at the depot where he finds Dr. Jennings waiting. On the train, the specialist delicately brings up the matter of fees.
“One great trouble with a treatment of this kind is the expense. The fees must necessarily be large and it is difficult to get even wealthy men to pay them. It is a relief to be able to discuss this part of the subject candidly with a brother physician like yourself who has the brain and common sense to appreciate it.”
Once again Dr. Jennings is pleased at the confidence reposed in him, and the more so when Dr. Wilkinson continues:
“Of course in a case like this where the local physician interests himself, takes his time to visit a patient with the specialist, gives the latter the benefit of his knowledge of the case, and continues the treatment after the specialist has gone, there should be a division of the fee. The local physician cannot be expected to donate his services; that would be ridiculously unfair.”
The country doctor is more interested than ever. Should he be super-sensitive about acceptance of a fee, and inclined to question the ethics of the arrangement he is quieted with the assurance that it is in common practice all over the country. In most cases, however, there is no tendency of this kind. The local practitioner is ready, and anxious to get his share of the money. His main concern is about the amount. Frequently he asks:
“What do you think we can get doctor?”
“That depends upon the man. You know him better than I do. You say he is wealthy, so his ability to pay is not to be questioned. We’ll fix upon an amount that will be equitable under the circumstances. It should not be less than $500.”
The prospect of obtaining $250 so easily is very alluring to Dr. Jennings. He does not realize that the specialist is using him as a bait, making him stand sponsor as it were, for the merit and efficiency of the treatment. Arrived at Smith’s home Dr. Jennings is warm in his endorsement of everything Dr. Wilkinson says and does. The latter examines the patient carefully, asks him numerous questions, frequently referring to Dr. Jennings for information upon technical points, and showing deference for the opinions of the family physician. Finally the stage is reached where it is necessary to talk business.
“If you should decide to take this treatment, Mr. Smith, I will arrange with Dr. Jennings for its administration. It should be given twice a day. I will furnish all the remedies and, advised by frequent letters from Dr. Jennings as to your progress, will outline such changes from time to time as may appear necessary.”
This naturally leads Mr. Smith up to asking, “Do you think you can cure me, doctor?”