Setbacks on self-referral bans: some doctors heartened, but others say tightening trend continues

Article Abstract:

The American Medical Association's (AMA) House of Delegates has approved a resolution which states that a physician is ethically correct in referring patients to health services in which the physician has an ownership interest, provided the service is necessary to the patient and the doctor informs the patient of the ownership interest. The resolution is contrary to the AMA's stated position that such 'self-referral' is inherently unethical and goes against the general trend of most state and federal laws, which are putting increasing restrictions on self-referral.

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No discrimination against gays

Article Abstract:

The American Medical Assn (AMA) has amended its bylaws to ban discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. The ban has been defeated in four previous votes but was supported by the AMA board at the 1993 Annual Conference. This support, together with the testimony of several doctors who reported bias, influenced enough delegates to gain the 2/3 vote. Some delegates remained fervently opposed to the change, believing non-heterosexual lifestyles to be morally evil. Opponents also stated that some state and county societies would reject the amendment.

Laws, regulations and rules, Discrimination against gays

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Self-referral tug of war: Ethical policy vs. state politics

Article Abstract:

Several state legislatures are considering laws against self-referral, the referral of patients to medical facilities in which the attending physician has a financial interest. Ethical standards espoused by the American Medical Association criticize the practice, but nevertheless some officials do not support the legislation. For instance, the Florida Medical Association objects to a proposed state law because they claim it does not allow for exceptional circumstances.

Offices & clinics of medical doctors

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