Letters to the Editor - Sept. 7, 2009

Provide physicians with a tax credit for treating the uninsured

I have an idea that I believe would be quite acceptable to all physicians with regard to providing care to the uninsured. First, the federal government establishes some method of identifying those who are eligible. Then physicians are asked, "How many patients would you see for free per month?" That establishes a "bank" to which these patients can be directed. In lieu of payment, the government gives me a tax credit for my services. I'd even do it for a 50% tax credit. I have discussed this with several primary care physicians and specialists and haven't found a single doctor who wouldn't do this. This would cost nothing essentially and only a pittance of lost tax revenue, and would give me a real incentive.

--Frederic F. Porcase Jr., DO, Jacksonville, Fla.

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Pharma ties not proof of corruption

Regarding "Industry gift bans slammed for overreaching" (Article, Aug. 10): I commend the Assn. of Clinical Researchers and Educators for their position against anti-pharmaceutical thought police. It is bad enough society demeans us as "providers," but now some doctors insist we are so weak-willed, uncaring and easily misdirected that any industry dealings for personal gain is de-facto professional corruption.

I don't think we did too bad making health care advances over the last 100 years working with the pharmaceutical industry -- yes, some physicians for personal gain, as well.

--Roman Hendrickson, MD, Sheridan, Mont.

The print version of this content appeared in the Sept. 14, 2009 issue of American Medical News.

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