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From the Founder: A Squandered Opportunity

Like so many physicians and citizens, I find myself frustrated, saddened, and more than anything scared by what is playing out in the healthcare reform effort. While I believe people understand the concept that the ends justifies the means, one cannot help but wonder what the ends are at this point.

The subversion of our democratic system violates every lesson we learn as school children about separation of powers in the government. If this bill is so good for the public, then why do opinion polls overwhelmingly say that the public is not in favor of this and why are some legislators doing things that can only be described as extraordinary?

The worst thing? I hope this bill passes.

It is our last best hope at ANYTHING meaningful occurring. That being said, I think the damage is done. This is no longer about the goal, it is about the process. The proponents HAVE to pass the bill. It has become a self fulfilling prophesy. Rationality and what is "best" for our country have long since left the conversation. Unfortunately, true healthcare reform will be just the first casualty here. The healthcare system, the broader economy, and ultimately our nation will pay the price. We have squandered the opportunity of a lifetime for the benefit of a tiny number of special interests. On this point, I truly hope that I am wrong.

Almost two years ago, the Sermo community called for healthcare reform with over 12,000 physicians signing the open letter. This community went on to predict that the AMA would fail physicians in their moment of need, pointing out that the AMA's business model made them beholden to the government and insurance companies, not physicians. Finally, this community consistently pointed to the key elements needed in meaningful healthcare reform (not one of which is in the bill). Lately, this community has been making perhaps the most alarming prediction of all:

• Physicians are opting out of medicine in alarming numbers.
• We are opting out of Medicare/Medicaid in even larger numbers.

Ultimately, it will be our patients that pay the price. As our nation holds its collective breath on the eve of this historic vote, we all should all remember that.

Daniel Palestrant, MD

Founder & CEO

Sermo, Inc.

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