A poll of physicians found only 12.5 percent of them supported the AMA's viewpoint on proposed coverage expansions in last year's health reform, according to a report in the New England Journal of Medicine.
In a survey, more than 5,000 physicians gave their opinions on proposals to expand Medicare, cover the uninsured primarily through private payors and provide a public option, all of which the AMA opposed. They were not asked their opinions on other proposed reforms.
Though the AMA stance did not garner a majority in any measured sector of physicians, support for the AMA was more likely among DOs, traditional hospital-based specialists, non-salaried physicians and physicians in rural practices.
In response, AMA President James Rohack, MD, said the survey incorrectly characterized the AMA's positions. "None of the survey choices accurately describe AMA policy, and it's unclear exactly what questions were asked," he stated.
Read the New England Journal of Medicine's report on the AMA.
Read other Becker's articles on the AMA.
"As AMA Embraced Reform, Membership Fell 35% in 2009"
Is the AMA the Worst Trade Association Ever?
In a survey, more than 5,000 physicians gave their opinions on proposals to expand Medicare, cover the uninsured primarily through private payors and provide a public option, all of which the AMA opposed. They were not asked their opinions on other proposed reforms.
Though the AMA stance did not garner a majority in any measured sector of physicians, support for the AMA was more likely among DOs, traditional hospital-based specialists, non-salaried physicians and physicians in rural practices.
In response, AMA President James Rohack, MD, said the survey incorrectly characterized the AMA's positions. "None of the survey choices accurately describe AMA policy, and it's unclear exactly what questions were asked," he stated.
Read the New England Journal of Medicine's report on the AMA.
Read other Becker's articles on the AMA.
"As AMA Embraced Reform, Membership Fell 35% in 2009"
Is the AMA the Worst Trade Association Ever?