AMCNO Hosts Legislative Luncheon at Marymount Hospital

On Friday, March 14th the AMCNO sponsored a Legislative Lunch at Marymount Hospital. A key component of the AMCNO legislative agenda for 2008 is to coordinate meetings with hospitals/groups in the region. These meetings are to educate physicians and legislators on the ongoing impact of medical issues on access to care, physician practice, hospital care and reimbursement issues. 

The lunch format is not a fundraiser, but rather an opportunity for physicians to meet with legislators from the region. Legislators in attendance for the Marymount luncheon were Representatives Kenny Yuko, Tom Patton, and Michael DeBose. Also in attendance were Senators Spada and Miller. Each of the legislators spent time providing the physicians with their background as well as their ideas for the upcoming legislative agenda. 

AMCNO representatives provided information on the AMCNO legislative agenda for 2008. Physicians in attendance voiced concern about the medical liability climate in Northern Ohio, specifically providing information to the legislators that although premiums have leveled off somewhat, physicians in our region continue to pay the highest rates in the state while their practice cannot increase their reimbursement rate under the current payment system. There was also discussion about the lack of uniformity in health insurance contracts and rules, community benefit issues and patient safety matters. The AMCNO is currently scheduling other legislative lunches in Northern Ohio. Members interested in participating in a legislative lunch should contact the AMCNO at 216-520-1000.