Whether in a hospital, surgery center or clinic, COVID-19 has drastically changed the care physicians are able to provide patients.
According to a recent survey of medical practices in Alabama, the coronavirus has fundamentally altered Alabama’s healthcare delivery system and exposed policies that limit adaptive solutions.
The survey identified several key findings that could be detrimental to the delivery of healthcare in Alabama:
- 70% of survey respondents said COVID-19 has had a severe impact on practice finances, causing layoffs and furloughs and limiting access to care.
- Nearly 60% reported patient volume reductions that have cut revenues by at least 50%.
- More than 71% said they’re likely to continue providing telemedicine so long as insurers continue covering the services for patients.
- More than 71% are concerned about the potential liability from lack of PPE and patients canceling or delaying procedures and other medical care.
- Public Health Concerns: Survey data shows that patient volume is down considerably and there are concerns that Alabamians are not going to their physician for routine care, including childhood and adult vaccinations, which will have long term public health consequences.
In light of the findings of the survey, the Medical Association recommends several public policy proposals to combat the effects this novel virus has on physician practices and care delivery.
We cannot allow COVID-19 to decimate our already strained healthcare system. Supporting those who care for us is needed now more than ever.
