A new survey by The Physicians Foundation found that 57% of physicians age 40 and younger are pessimistic about the future of the U.S. healthcare system. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) was cited as the leading source of their pessimism, as well as concerns over increased regulatory burdens and medical liability insurance premiums.
The survey was based on responses from 500 physicians, 40 and under, across the United States. Of those who cited the ACA as a concern:
49% believe the legislation will hurt their practice.
23% believe the legislation will have a positive effect.
4% were “highly optimistic” about the legislation.
Other findings from the survey include:
35% of these newly minted physicians consider themselves “highly satisfied” with their current practice arrangements.
65% said that financial considerations, including income and cash flow, were the primary drivers in choosing their current practice arrangements.
25% of survey respondents noted that they chose their current arrangement because it was “the only job available.”
40% of young primary care physicians would opt to be sole owners or partners in a group if given the opportunity.
12% of physicians who are currently employees of large hospital groups would stay in their current position.
Physician’s Weekly wants to know… Do you agree with the survey findings? Do you find that younger doctors are more pessimistic about their careers and healthcare in general than older physicians?
