Readers support direct payment model for doctors in Minnesota

A recent column on direct primary care in Minnesota has sparked significant reader interest. This model allows patients to pay doctors directly, bypassing insurance, which some believe could reduce healthcare costs. However, concerns about a declining number of primary care physicians persist. Readers have suggested that public employees could transition to this model by eliminating their health insurance for routine care. This would allow them to pay doctors directly, potentially lowering costs. Yet, doctors warn that the shortage of primary care providers could hinder access to care. In other news, Minnesota has approved a new building code allowing residential buildings up to four stories with a single staircase. This makes Minnesota the first state to adopt such a change, reflecting a shift in building regulations.