Physician Leaders Support ACA

Although Americans in general are sharply split over the decision by the Supreme Court to uphold the Affordable Care Act (ACA), physicians are leaning more toward one side, according to a poll by the American College of Physician Executives (ACPE).

A Gallup poll just after the Court ruling was announced showed that Americans were evenly split with 46% agreeing with the decision and 46% disagreeing. However, the ACPE poll of physicians who lead hospitals, health systems and large group practices across the U.S. found that more than 60% agreed with the decision to uphold ACA.

“ACPE is dedicated to serving as the balanced voice for physician leadership in America,” Peter Angood, MD, chief executive officer of ACPE said in a statement. “Regardless of any one individual's opinion, the Supreme Court's decision was an important moment in health care. The thoughtful and cogent comments our physician leaders contributed to the poll accurately reflect the passion and dedication they have for improving the practice of medicine for both physicians and patients.”

While 61% say they support the Court’s decision, 33% opposed it and 6% were unsure. For those who oppose the decision, the major issue was the potential cost of the new law, as many wondered how the government planned to pay for all the reform.

"This is not just higher taxes for working Americans but also forced commerce," said Eric Nazziola, MD, MBA, of Paramus, N.J., in comments on the ACPE site. "The long-run result of this is more wasteful government bureaucracy, rationing of care and erosion of quality."

However, physicians all have to feel a little bit of relief to know that a decision has been reached finally and they can begin to move forward with implementing changes. Unfortunately, if assumed Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney wins the election in November, there could be more uncertainty as he has already vowed to overturn the law if elected.