Ep. 75: Physician struggles, with AMA President Bobby Mukkamala, M.D. (Part 2)

Bobby Mukkamala, M.D., president of the American Medical Association (AMA) joins the show to talk about what the AMA is doing for pressing issues like prior authorizations, private practice, artificial intelligence and scope of practice.

This is part two of our conversation with Mukkamala. If you haven't already, be sure to check out part one, "From patient to president, with AMA President Bobby Mukkamala, M.D.," to hear about his personal health journey, in addition to the AMA’s stance on primary care, health policy and physician reimbursement.

Also, don't miss our previous episodes on why physicians are suing RFK Jr., Medicare reform, agentic AI and the state of private practice.

Music Credits:
Cool Funky Chill Hip Hop by Musinova - stock.adobe.com
Relaxing Lounge by Classy Call me Man - stock.adobe.com
A Textbook Example by Skip Peck - stock.adobe.com

Editor's note: Episode timestamps and transcript produced using AI tools.

Introduction and Episode Context (00:00:00) Overview of the episode, speakers and recap of part one; sets up topics for this episode.

Prior Authorization Challenges and AMA Reform Efforts (00:01:15) Discussion of the frustrations with prior authorization, real-world examples and AMA's advocacy for reform.

Decline of Private Practice and Physician Autonomy (00:06:38) Explores the shift from private practice to employment, threats to autonomy and AMA's support for independent physicians.

Promoting Private Practice to Medical Students (00:08:39) Encouraging medical students to consider private practice and the importance of independence in medicine.

Clinical Resource Plug: Patient Care Online (00:10:02) Brief mention of Patient Care Online as a resource for primary care physicians.

Artificial Intelligence in Medicine: Promise and Pitfalls (00:10:14) Examines AI's potential in healthcare, concerns about implementation and AMA's approach to augmented intelligence.

P2 Management Minute: Reducing Malpractice Risk (00:13:44) Tips for physicians on reducing malpractice risk through communication, documentation and patient relationships.

Scope of Practice and Team-Based Care (00:14:48) Concerns about non-physician providers, importance of physician-led teams and maintaining care quality.

Closing Thoughts and Call for Unity (00:18:49) Dr. Mukkamala's message to physicians about working together to improve health care and the AMA's role.

Outro and Subscription Information (00:20:03) Wrap-up, how to find part one and information on subscribing to the podcast and newsletters.