Reduction Could Pose Problems for Physicians

A new medicare payment reduction for physicians’ services goes into effect today, which two local doctors say could cause major problems within the medical community.

Medicare payment reductions have typically been in the amount of one or two percent in years past, but it totals more than 20 percent this year.

While that will cover fixed costs, Vascular Surgeon Derald Madson and Optimologist Carl Minning say that reduction cuts off their incomes.

"This really threatens the viability of private medical practice as we know it. There are many physicians offices that have overhead of 70%. So, if this 21 to 22% cut does come into affect, it will put some of them on the brink of closing," says Minning.

Madson says the federal government is trying to balance the budget, which is the reason for the increase. He says he’s not just afraid of not practicing anymore.

"A secondary aspect, of course, and the big national problem is access to care, " says Madson.

Madson and Minning say it may force physicians to limit the number of medicare patients they see, so they will be able to make an income.

The federal government has 10 days to rescind the reduction if it finds problems.

Both doctors are asking that you contact our US Congressman and US Senators with any concerns you have over this issue.