Executive Budget a “Mixed Bag” for Patient Access to Care

For Immediate Release
January 17, 2024 

Executive Budget a “Mixed Bag” for Patient Access to Care

Statement Attributable to:
Paul A. Pipia, MD
President, Medical Society of the State of New York

“The Executive Budget is a mixed bag for patient care access.  It importantly sets forth several positive provisions to better ensure patients have access to needed care, including expanded health insurance coverage and coverage for telehealth services.

“However, we are very concerned by other proposals that would slash longstanding programs and result in reducing patient access to community-based physician care.  This includes the proposed repeal of the Committee for Physicians’ Health program, a tremendously important program begun over 40 years ago that provides needed treatment services for physicians thought to be suffering from burnout and/or addiction.  Ironically, authority for this program was just extended for five years by the Governor and Legislature in last year’s State Budget.  Another serious concern are the cuts to the long-standing Excess Medical Malpractice Insurance program, a program started in the mid-1980s that has helped keep physicians in practice in our communities by offsetting the staggering costs of purchasing medical liability insurance coverage in New York State.

“We also have significant concerns with the adverse impact to patient care through proposals to remove important physician collaboration and/or supervision over care delivery by non-physicians.   Not only is physician oversight essential for care quality, but it is also what patients want.  A recent national survey reported that 95% of patients believe it is important that a physician be involved with their diagnosis and treatment decisions.

“We look forward to further discussions with the Governor and Legislature on preserving patient access to community-based physician care so that our patients have access to the quality healthcare they need and deserve.”

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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]