STRENGTH IN NUMBERS
The Relevance of Organized Medicine for Today ’ s Physicians
by DINESH KALRA , MD
Organized medicine is the term given when professional organizations proactively work to promote the interests and welfare of their physician members . We work collaboratively with other professional societies , hospital organizations , payors and legislators to safeguard patient care and monitor the quality of care delivered . Our staff can advise regarding the business aspects of medical practice . Together we advocate for patients ’ and physicians ’ rights and medical reform when needed .
Importantly , in caring for our patients we are tuned in to their needs and the challenges that they face , including socioeconomic factors that influence health care delivery . In Kentucky , the Kentucky Medical Association ( KMA ), Greater Louisville Medical Society ( GLMS ) and the local American College of Cardiology ( ACC , Kentucky chapter ) have a strong reputation for putting patients front and center and advocating for their needs and rights . We look out for physicians to ensure a sustainable workforce and a good work environment so that communities can attract and retain provider talent .
The Case for Organized Medicine
There are several critical issues facing modern health care – medical care delivery continues to become increasingly complex , not only in terms of scientific advancements but also in the sociopolitical and economic dimensions . Medical practice today is influenced by numerous factors beyond direct patient care . Economic pressures , social dynamics , regulatory requirements and political influences are all intertwined with health care delivery . High rates of burnout and suicide among physicians are alarming and indicate deep-rooted issues within the health care system . These issues are exacerbated by the multifaceted pressures faced by health care providers . To improve patient health and the health care delivery system , there needs to be a strong , unified voice among health care providers . This collective voice should advocate for cost-effective and responsible health care that benefits all parties .
Physicians ’ daily routines are heavily influenced by bureaucratic processes imposed by insurance companies and byzantine regulations , yet these time-consuming demands may sometimes work in a countervailing manner and lead to poorer health outcomes . Additionally , both the general public and elected officials may not have a complete understanding of the realities and challenges of practicing medicine in today ’ s climate . Thus , effective advocacy and policy-making require input from those who are in the trenches providing patient care . The multitude of challenges facing providers today requires a systemic change in how health care is administered and regulated . Addressing these challenges will require collaborative efforts from medical professionals , policymakers and patients ( the end users ) to create a more supportive and effective health care environment that works for all .
Engaging With Medical Societies & Organizations
The health care workforce continues to face many challenges such as insurers ’ restrictions on the meds and treatments that doctors feel are best for their patients . This necessitates jumping through countless insurance hoops , with ever-mounting levels of chart keeping and paperwork for quality metrics and billing . Add in malpractice pressures and falling reimbursements , and doctors find themselves subject to higher levels of disenchantment and burnout .
Physicians working in tandem with their patients are often the best advocates for meaningful improvements in care . Organized medical societies such as the American Medical Association ( AMA ) and local ( e . g ., GLMS ) and regional or state-based medical orga-
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