A recent survey by the state's largest physician's group gives a snapshot of how economic hard times are affecting the doctor-patient relationship. Jason Koma of the Ohio State Medical Association says job loss is having a direct impact on access to health care.
JASON KOMA: We found that physicians --- 7 out of 10 of them --- have seen a decrease in operating revenue in the last 9 months and , accordingly, and nearly 100% have seen more patients losing their insurance, and more patients having trouble meeting their financial obligations when it comes to paying their medical bills.
Several doctors in the survey noted that many patients were postponing appointments and tests. One pediatrician said some people were delaying preventative care until they could qualify for Medicaid. Still, Jason Koma says, three out of four doctors were still willing to work with patients to develop payment plans and find other ways to cover --- or at least defray --- medical costs.
