NYS Physicians React to Budget Decision

WESTBURY, NY (03/28/2011)(readMedia)-- The President of the Medical Society of the State of New York, Leah McCormack, MD, responded to the announcement that a cap to pain and suffering awards would not be included in the 2011-2012 NYS budget with the following comments:

"Physicians across New York are more than disappointed that Governor Cuomo, the New York State Senate and Assembly reached a budget agreement yesterday that did not contain caps on non-economic damages. We are angry, disgusted and feel betrayed by this unconscionable decision. The budget agreement did not embody the medical tort reform principles of balance and shared sacrifice that would have brought economic stability to hospitals and physicians.

The medical liability component of the budget was essential to restore fiscal stability to our healthcare system. The consequences of this missed opportunity will devastate our healthcare system for the next decade. There is a basic lack of understanding by our legislators of economic sustainability- that there will be fewer physicians available to render care to our neediest patients. This deal potentially decimates the already fragile New York health care system.

Under these circumstances, the Medical Society no longer endorses the Governor's Medicaid Redesign Plan. We could not have been more clear that MSSNY would endorse the Medicaid Redesign Plan 'if, and only if, the Medical Liability Reform proposals remain(ed) intact.'

We urge the Governor and the Legislature to reverse the decision. MSSNY will be reevaluating its political efforts and taking a long look at our priorities. It is no longer business as usual."

To obtain additional information and/or arrange interview requests, contact Moe Auster at 518-465-8085 and mauster@mssny.org or Lynda Lees Adams at 516-750-7344 and ladams@mssny.org.