the salt makers

The fact that doctors, by in large, do not support Obama's health reform is shockingly under-reported. It's important to remember that one of the most cited reasons for physicians going into early retirement or choosing another profession is excessive government intervention and mandates. This ultimately takes decisions from physicians and hinders their ability to practice medicine. As this poll points out, the problems are only going to be exacerbated as a physician shortage looms even without excessive government meddling. The solution? Do what the NHS does: recruit physicians from third world countries where physician standards are lower than in the US.

Doctor opposition to health care overhaul proposals is broad and deep, revealing concerns not just about soaring costs, declining care, possible rationing and a lack of limits on malpractice suits, but also about government competence and motives, detailed responses to a new IBD/TIPP Poll show.

65% of the 1,376 practicing physicians who responded to a mailed questionnaire over the last two weeks said they opposed health care plans that have emerged from the administration and Congress. Just 33% supported them.

Perhaps the most shocking result: 45% of these professionals said they would consider closing their practices or retiring early if the reforms now under consideration were enacted.

Zach