John R. Tongue, MD, president of the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons, said the organization is pleased with the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 but urges elected officials to find a permanent solution to the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate. In an official statement, Dr. Tongue said short term SGR solutions continue uncertainty among physicians and patients and could hamper efforts to improve quality and lower costs.
"It is true that our nation faces significant fiscal challenges and with healthcare costs currently accounting for over 17 percent of our GDP, we as physicians have a real duty to reduce inefficiencies in our healthcare system," said Dr. Tongue. "The AAOS and other members of the physician community are actively collaborating with public and private stakeholders to provide more efficient and effective care to our patients, not only to improve outcomes and contribute to a healthier America, but also to assist in getting our nation's fiscal house in order."
AAOS also pledged to work with Congress on a permanent solution to the sequester and urged Congress to eliminate the SGR in favor of a new payment system.
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"It is true that our nation faces significant fiscal challenges and with healthcare costs currently accounting for over 17 percent of our GDP, we as physicians have a real duty to reduce inefficiencies in our healthcare system," said Dr. Tongue. "The AAOS and other members of the physician community are actively collaborating with public and private stakeholders to provide more efficient and effective care to our patients, not only to improve outcomes and contribute to a healthier America, but also to assist in getting our nation's fiscal house in order."
AAOS also pledged to work with Congress on a permanent solution to the sequester and urged Congress to eliminate the SGR in favor of a new payment system.
More Articles on Orthopedic Surgery:
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20 Orthopedic Practices That Expanded in 2012
Dr. Douglas Dirschl to Chair University of Chicago's Orthopedic Surgery Department