In an Oct. 4 story on Medicare reform, you record that the American Medical Association says the plan would be a financial strain on doctors.
As a pathologist who cooperated with family practitioners and specialists in the care of patients in Chicago and the suburbs for more than 45 years, I cannot share the concerns of the AMA at this time. More than 90 percent of physicians that I have known were dedicated to the proper care of patients with full knowledge that they would still be able to make a reasonable living. Their willingness to devote 50 to 60 hours a week was not unusual. They also required support from wives and families willing to share them with patients.
The welfare state that introduced physician payments through Medicare and Medicaid lured some physicians into the fold. However, if the welfare state reduces funds available for patients’ care, I am sure that the physicians loyal to the Hippocratic Oath will still prevail and good medical care will be provided.
