Waltham, Mass. -- February 17, 2011 -- Statement of Alice
A. Tolbert Coombs, MD, MMS President, on the filing of payment
reform legislation today by Governor Deval Patrick:
"We're very encouraged that the Governor's legislation
recognizes the critical importance of addressing defensive medicine
in payment reform. We are confident that the provisions in
the bill will reduce the costly practice of defensive medicine,
promote safety and quality, and compensate injured patients
promptly and fairly.
"We also want to acknowledge and thank the Governor, Secretary
Bigby, and other members of his administration for the inclusive
process leading up to today's filing. He has encouraged all of key
stakeholders in health care to continue to work together on this
issue, and we pledge our commitment to continue to be part of this
important dialogue."
The Massachusetts Medical Society, with more than 23,000 physicians
and student members, is dedicated to educating and advocating for
the patients and physicians of Massachusetts. The Society publishes
the New England Journal of Medicine, a leading global medical
journal and web site, and Journal Watch alerts and newsletters
covering 13 specialties. The Society is also a leader in continuing
medical education for health care professionals throughout
Massachusetts, conducting a variety of medical education programs
for physicians and health care professionals. Founded in 1781, MMS
is the oldest continuously operating medical society in the
country. For more information, visit www.massmed.org, www.nejm.org, or www.jwatch.org.
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