Physician Groups Back Medicare Payment Reform Bill

In addition, the American Medical Association announced that it plans to run nationwide television advertisements aimed at seniors and in support for S.1776.

The new TV spot features seniors and their physicians, while a voiceover says "every year Congress must make a temporary fix to the Medicare payment plan so seniors can keep their doctor and the care they depend on." The ad calls on the Senate to protect Medicare security and stability and repeal the SGR. It urges people to call their Senators to support S. 1776.

"Congress can no longer put a Band-Aid on the problem," says AMA President J. James Rohack, MD. "The 2009 Medicare Trustees' report projects payment cuts to physicians of about 40% over the next five years—forcing physicians to make tough decisions. Nearly 90% of people 50 and over are concerned that the current Medicare physician payment formula threatens their access to care. In just two years, the first wave of baby boomers will reach Medicare age."