The American Medical Association says legislation wending its way through the Republican-controlled … More
The American Medical Association is strongly opposed to legislation currently making its way through Congress that would significantly reduce health benefits for poor and low-income Americans.
At their annual policy-making House of Delegates meeting in Chicago, the AMA is urging physicians to take action against the proposed legislation before it reaches the U.S. Senate. The legislation, known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” narrowly passed the Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives and is projected to cut federal Medicaid spending by $793 billion, potentially leading to 7.8 million more uninsured individuals, according to a KFF analysis.
AMA President Bruce A. Scott, M.D. addressed delegates, emphasizing the need to turn anger into action to protect the healthcare system. The AMA has launched a grassroots campaign aimed at influencing the Senate’s decision on the legislation, as the organization represents over 200,000 physicians nationwide.
Scott highlighted the detrimental impact of the proposed legislation on lower-income Americans, particularly in terms of limiting access to essential care provided through programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act. He stressed the importance of maintaining these safety nets and educating lawmakers on improving the healthcare system without compromising care for vulnerable populations.
Scott, a Kentucky-based otolaryngologist, criticized the current Medicare physician payment system and the lack of attention from Congress on issues like prior authorization, which can delay necessary treatments and jeopardize patient health.
He expressed frustration over the dysfunction within the healthcare system and Congress, emphasizing the need for reform to address the challenges faced by physicians and patients alike.
Furthermore, Scott pointed out that cuts to physician payments are driving more healthcare professionals away from private practice, exacerbating the existing doctor shortage in the country. The AMA’s analysis indicates that only two in five physicians are now in doctor-owned private practices, leading to extended wait times for specialist appointments in many U.S. cities.
“There is no ‘care’ in Medicare if there are no doctors,” Scott concluded, calling on Congress to prioritize the needs of healthcare providers and patients in shaping future healthcare policy.
