Image for McDonaldization of medicine

McDonaldization of medicine

The McDonaldization of medicine refers to the way healthcare practices are increasingly organized like fast-food restaurants, emphasizing efficiency, uniformity, and predictability. This approach streamlines processes to serve many patients quickly, often through standardized procedures and technology. While it improves access and reduces costs, it can also lead to less personalized care and may overlook individual patient needs. Essentially, it applies the principles of fast-food service to medicine, balancing efficiency with concerns about maintaining quality and empathy in healthcare delivery.