During the 1960s not much was made of cost, either by attending physicians, doctors in training, or hospital administrators. There were no HMOs, or managed care. Medicare had just begun in 1963 and had not yet fueled medical inflation.
Although not a high priority issue at the time I would think and ask question, "what are we doing to this patient" The 'primum non-nocere' theme did not seem to apply to financial or family concerns.
After a life-long career in medicine I now know that not only does the patient have the disease (especially if chronic, such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer or a multitude of others) the family also 'suffers' directly or indirectly. The patient may become disabled, lose employment and suffer severe financial setbacks that will involve an entire nuclear family.
The effect of a hospitalization ending in short term or long term disability will impact financial capability to purchase interim COBRA coverage, or even insurance in the long term.
Medical curriculum has changed. Courses in health information technology, multiculturalism, prevention, nutrition have become standard faire in additon to the overwhelming facts in science and medicine. Now add the economics of medicine, and not just as a 'theorectical' macroeconomic theory, but also as a microeconomist talking face to face with a patient and/or family member.
The depth of knowledge which a good physician should be aware, run the gamut from medi-caid, medicare, and the affordable care act.
Medical Schools Teach Students To Talk With Patients About Care Costs : Shots - Health News : NPR
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