PriceDoc.com's online healthcare service acquisition and negotiation system awarded U.S. patent

PriceDoc.com, a free, transparent healthcare pricing service and Web site, announced today that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office issued PriceDoc patent #7,657,479 for its online system of healthcare service acquisition and negotiation, making PriceDoc.com the only online site where patients can "make an offer" for healthcare services with verified providers.

The patent is the groundbreaking work of Julian Henley, M.D., chief medical officer and co-founder of PriceDoc. "I am very happy that the U.S. Patent Office has recognized the novelty and the importance of the patent," said Dr. Henley. "This is a win for both providers and patients. PriceDoc can change the healthcare paradigm by putting the consumer back in the driver's seat."

With over 47 million Americans without health insurance, 20 million with high deductibles and an additional 100 million without dental insurance, there is an obvious need for greater access to affordable healthcare. On PriceDoc.com, consumers who are uninsured, underinsured or seeking elective procedures can view and reserve prices and procedures with qualified providers who accept cash or credit card payments.

"PriceDoc is proud that the U.S. Patent Office recognizes the uniqueness of our online negotiation feature," said Patrick Bradley, Ph.D., president and chief operating officer of PriceDoc. "Our consumers receive the same quality services at reduced prices, and can submit offers for procedures at their desired price. PriceDoc.com is increasing access to quality, affordable healthcare."

The patent supports PriceDoc.com's online disclosure of provider qualifications and certifications - ensuring that quality is never compromised for a negotiated, reduced cost. The patent also safeguards patient privacy through a secure sharing of medical information from patient to provider that sets the most accurate price for each individual's needs.

Since its national expansion in November 2009, PriceDoc.com has grown to include more than 2,400 providers who post more than 50,000 medical and dental procedures that are available for cash prices. To date, consumers have performed searches for over 700,000 medical and dental procedures. PriceDoc.com began in April 2009 with a pilot program in the Seattle, Wash. area and launched nationally in November 2009.