Medicare cuts could severely affect Ohio physicians

     According to the American Medical Association, while Medicare payment cuts will affect patient access nationwide, Ohio may see more severe affects.  In Ohio, 46% of family physicians are over the age of 50 and 24% are over 60 years old.  A recent survey indicates that many of these physicians may be planning early retirement.  Ohio's ratio of physicians to 1,000 Medicare beneficiaries is 14.4 compared to a national average of 15.7.   Medicare beneficiaries make up 15% of Ohio residents.

     Ohio will be ranked 8th in total Medicare losses if the 5.4% Medicare cut remains in effect. Per physician, cuts would average $3,989, but will likely to exceed $10,000 for urologists, ophthalmologists, oncologists and cardio-thoracic surgeons.  With several professional liability insurance companies raising rates, some as much as 60% for some Ohio physicians, these cuts would have a sever impact.