The NCMS recognizes the positive measures of this law that expand coverage to more uninsured individuals, eliminate bans on pre-existing conditions and the primary care-based initiatives that would promote prevention and wellness. However, the positive results of these reforms will be overshadowed by disabling actions taken by this bill including:

• A failure to permanently repeal Medicare’s flawed physician payment formula.
• A failure to enact meaningful medical liability reform.
• A failure to allow physicians and patient rights to privately contract without penalties.
• The imposition of penalties for physicians who do not successfully participate in the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI).
• The creation of a Medicare Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB).
• Ban the establishment of new physician-owned hospitals.