Tobacco Money Pays for Doctors
By: RNS
Updated: March 24, 2009
There is a big problem in the state regarding a severe shortage of primary physicians. The situation results in long waits for patients and overcrowded emergency rooms.
Legislators are reviewing a bill to offer more incentive for doctors to switch to primary care. One benefit would help them repay their loans to medical schools.
Most doctors specialize because it's more lucrative. House Bill 1876 would provide funds to pay up to $160,000 in loans as long as the doctors serve in primary care facilities in counties with shortages.
The program would be funded in the manner smokeless tobacco is taxed. The change would tax by weight instead of price and bring more money.
The bill will be reviewed by a House committee next week.
Legislators are reviewing a bill to offer more incentive for doctors to switch to primary care. One benefit would help them repay their loans to medical schools.
Most doctors specialize because it's more lucrative. House Bill 1876 would provide funds to pay up to $160,000 in loans as long as the doctors serve in primary care facilities in counties with shortages.
The program would be funded in the manner smokeless tobacco is taxed. The change would tax by weight instead of price and bring more money.
The bill will be reviewed by a House committee next week.
