President Obama to Speak on Health Reform at AMA Meeting

WASHINGTON, D.C. – President Barack Obama will speak at the American Medical Association’s (AMA) 158th annual meeting in Chicago next Monday, June 15, on the need for health care reform.

“President Obama has made health reform a top domestic priority, as has the AMA,” said AMA President Nancy H. Nielsen, MD. “President Obama’s speech to AMA physicians shows that he values the input of those who dedicate their lives to caring for patients. We have a historic opportunity for health-care reform this year, and the AMA is committed to improving the system so that it works better for patients and physicians. We are honored to welcome President Obama to our annual meeting, where physicians develop the policies that guide the AMA’s advocacy.”

“The AMA is actively working for health reform that covers the uninsured, makes private insurance more affordable, increases the value our nation receives from its health-care spending and enhances prevention and wellness for patients,” said Dr. Nielsen.

“To achieve the vision of health care for all, the nation must reduce the rate of growth in health care spending,” said Dr. Nielsen. “The AMA pledged to President Obama that the medical profession would reduce unnecessary costs by focusing on quality improvements, such as developing best practices for care and improving medication reconciliation.”

“In order for physicians to focus on patient care, health reform that covers the uninsured must also include permanent Medicare payment reform, antitrust relief and medical liability protections,” said Dr. Nielsen.

“President Obama’s appearance at our meeting is a wonderful opportunity for physicians to hear first-hand from him about reform efforts, and we are delighted that he will join us,” said Dr. Nielsen.