March 19, 2026
For Immediate Release
New York Returns to the Bottom of the List of Best & Worst States for Doctors
Statement Attributable to:
David Jakubowicz, MD
President, Medical Society of the State of New York
“New York’s return to the bottom of the list of all states Best & Worst States for Doctors in 2026 in which to practice medicine is a stark reminder to policymakers regarding the need to improve New York’s practice climate. New York physicians face by far and away the highest liability costs in the country. In 2023, New York State spent more in medical liability payments than California and Florida combined despite having one-third the population. These exorbitant medical liability insurance costs, along with excessive practice mandates and pervasive hassles from insurers in delivering patient care contribute extensively to New York’s continued poor ranking and the growing problem of physician burnout.
“We again urge our policymakers to improve this environment through a variety of means including legislation to bring down the costs of liability insurance, reform of abusive health plan prior authorization policies, audit tactics, and claims payment. All these factors are driving physicians out of community practice in New York and leading to further consolidation and reduced care options for our patients. At the same time, we must not make this problem worse. We again thank the Senate and Assembly for recommending rejection of short-sighted Budget proposals that would decimate funding for the Excess Medical Malpractice Insurance Program and curtail physician rights to appeal health plan underpayments to a fair IDR dispute resolution process.
“We look forward to working with our legislators and the Governor to help ensure patients can receive the timely quality care they need by working to improve New York’s physician practice environment.”
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Founded in 1807, the Medical Society of the State of New York is the state’s principal non-profit professional organization for physicians, residents, and medical students of all specialties. Its mission is to represent the interests of patients and physicians to assure quality healthcare services for all.
Media Contact:
Roseann Raia | Manager, Communications
Medical Society of the State of New York
865 Merrick Avenue
Westbury, NY 11590
516.488.6100 x302 | [email protected]
Julie Vecchione
Vice President, Communications
Medical Society of the State of New York
865 Merrick Avenue
Westbury, NY 11590
516.488.6100 x340 | [email protected]
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