Is anyone else confused at the position of the American Medical Association regarding ObamaCare? It would seem as though they are a very poor representation of their members. But the fact is that the recent house bill has thrown huge incentives at Physicians by doing away with the SGR (Sustainable Growth Rate Formula) which was due to give physicians a 21.5% decrease in Medicare payments in January. It has been coming up with decreases every year for the past 4-5 years but every year it is stopped by the AMA or other lobbyists. Anyone practicing Medicine knows that the Medicare reimbursements are barely enough to cover the costs of doing business so any cut to Medicare would be far felt. The doing away of the SGR is a big win for the AMA so it does not surprise anyone when they offer their support. The House bill also contains an allocated 5% increase to primary care physicians(Finally) which has been needed for a long time.
The problem with the AMA’s support is that the Bill still is devasting to our national deficit and long term sustainability. With a Medicare system that has been operating in the Red for years, how can we expect the government not to come up with a balance that debt in the coming years. What you will have is a healthcare system revolving around the government. 40% Medicare, 60% obamacare. The House bill does provide some serious incentives but you have to question the naked man who offers you his coat.
