Letter Expresses Concerns about Mcare Bill
As part of the Pennsylvania Medical Society’s grassroots campaign, more than 30 specialty organizations and the State Society have jointly signed a letter detailing their concerns about a bill that would extend Mcare abatement, fund Mcare phase-out, and expand health insurance coverage for the uninsured.
The letter was sent at the end of May, so that all state Senators received it when they returned to session in early June. The letter demonstrates that the medical community is united to preserve access to care.
The Senate is considering Senate Bill 1137, which includes plans to address the Medical Society’s three goals—extending Mcare abatement, funding Mcare phase-out, and expanding health insurance coverage to the uninsured.
While the State Society and specialty organizations appreciate the intent of SB 1137 to address these issues, they are concerned that the bill:
- Does not provide adequate, guaranteed funding to cover the cost of continued abatement and phase-out.
- Requires physicians to participate in the new state-run health plan, Pennsylvania Access to Basic Care (PaABC) and bars them from negotiating a fair reimbursement rate.
- Does not guarantee that physicians’ medical liability costs will remain predictable as primary liability insurance requirements are increased.
Last Updated: 8/1/2008