Doctors’ association lends its support to latest Senate health care bill

AMA supports latest Senate health care bill

WASHINGTON — The American Medical Association is supporting the latest version of a Senate health care overhaul as the legislation moves toward a final vote Christmas Eve.

Dr. Cecil B. Wilson, the association’s president-elect, announced the group’s stance Monday after the Senate overcame a key test vote by the narrowest margin possible. Wilson appeared with top Senate Democrats at a press conference in the Capitol.

The organization has been pushing for an overhaul and has worked with the Obama administration and with Democratic congressional leaders.

The AMA still wants separate action by the Senate to repeal the existing Medicare payment formula for doctors to prevent periodic reimbursement cuts.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The American Medical Association is supporting the latest version of a Senate health care overhaul as the legislation moves toward a final vote Christmas Eve.

Dr. Cecil B. Wilson, the association’s president, announced the group’s stance Monday after the Senate overcame a key test vote by the narrowest margin possible. Wilson appeared with top Senate Democrats at a press conference in the Capitol.

The organization has been pushing for an overhaul and has worked with the Obama administration and with Democratic congressional leaders.

The AMA still wants separate action by the Senate to repeal the existing Medicare payment formula for doctors to prevent periodic reimbursement cuts.