Dr. Scott Ferguson, MD, FACR, a diagnostic radiologist and member of the American Medical Association (AMA) Board of Trustees, has raised a series of urgent concerns affecting U.S. healthcare. In recent remarks, Dr. Ferguson emphasized the need for comprehensive Medicare payment reform, while also addressing broader structural challenges that threaten patient care and physician practice sustainability.
One of Dr. Ferguson’s primary focuses is the need to modernize Medicare’s physician payment system. He pointed out that the current framework, which has not kept pace with inflation, places significant financial strain on medical practices. This undercompensation risks reducing access to care, particularly in underserved communities, and could discourage physicians from accepting Medicare patients.
In addition to Medicare reform, Dr. Ferguson expressed concern over the Trump administration’s public health policies, noting that inconsistent or politically driven decision-making during the pandemic has eroded public trust in health institutions. He advocated for science-based policies that prioritize public welfare and support the healthcare workforce.
Another significant issue raised was the administrative burden posed by prior authorization policies enforced by insurance companies. Dr. Ferguson criticized these practices for delaying necessary care and increasing the workload on already overburdened clinicians. The AMA continues to advocate for streamlined processes that prioritize timely patient treatment.
Dr. Ferguson also highlighted the contributions of international medical graduates in the U.S. healthcare system, calling for immigration reforms that would facilitate the entry and retention of skilled medical professionals. He pointed out that many underserved areas depend on these physicians, making their contributions essential to public health.
Lastly, the rapid growth of private equity ownership in physician practices was flagged as a growing concern. Dr. Ferguson warned that while investment can offer operational improvements, it may also prioritize profit over patient outcomes. He urged for stronger oversight to preserve clinical autonomy and quality of care.
In his statements, Dr. Ferguson reinforced the AMA’s commitment to advocating for physicians and patients amid ongoing changes in the healthcare landscape. He called on policymakers and stakeholders to collaborate in addressing these issues to ensure a more effective, equitable healthcare system.
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