Obama addresses American Medical Association

President Barack Obama outlined his plans for health care reform at AMA’s annual meeting yesterday in Chicago, saying that a fix for the system is the “single most important thing we can do for America’s long-term fiscal health.” In his speech, the president touted many reforms that would strengthen the nation’s primary care infrastructure, including implementing incentives to encourage more medical students to choose careers in primary care and practice in underserved areas.

He also called for an expanded role for the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission, which has recommended that payment in the Medicare system be reformed to create incentives for primary care in recent years.

Earlier this month, AAFP reported that family medicine and other primary care specialties should fare well if reforms currently under consideration by Congress and the administration were passed. The Academy at both the state and national levels remains engaged in the debate as health care reform continues to build momentum. Check out AAFP’s communications resources to stay up to speed.

1. AAFP News Now, the Academy’s member news publication, is your go-to resource for articles with the latest information. Read these two articles posted this past week:

AAFP Takes Firm Stand on Health Care Reform Issues
Academy Promotes Health Care Quality, Enhanced Access, Cost Containment

Primary Care Should Fare Well Under Health Care Reform
Reform Efforts Seen as Positive for Family Physicians

2. The AAFP Media Center provides a central place for you to access all statements and news releases issued by AAFP. Three recent posts include:

• American Academy of Family Physicians Supports Choice of Public and Private Health Plans for Consumers
• Affordable Health Choices Act Marks the Beginning of Action
• AAFP Commends U.S. House Committees on Outline for Health Care Reform