New Conference Explores Crisis Facing Independent Physicians

Online, June 16, 2012 (Newswire.com) - Independent private practice physicians, squeezed by Medicare and Medicaid cuts, shrinking insurance reimbursements, and the impending influx of patients that will result from the new healthcare law's individual mandate, will gather in Alexandria, VA, September 14-15, for the first Physician Practice Survival Conference (www.PhysicianPracticeSurvival.com). The two-day event will explore what options doctors have for staying independent and surviving the radical changes in healthcare.

"People are starting to wake up to the dire situation facing independent doctors," says Kevin Fickenscher, M.D., president and CEO of the American Medical Informatics Association and co-chair of the Physician Practice Survival Conference. "They're not making any money. They can't realistically see the number of patients it takes to make ends meet and still provide adequate care. That's why I decided to chair the Physician Practice Survival Conference-to find solutions and help physicians in private practice survive."

The conference will bring together some of the most respected leaders in healthcare, from physicians to executives to third-party service providers, who can speak to the economic models that are working for physicians today. They'll also discuss the current federal regulatory landscape and its impact on independent practices.

"With the Supreme Court due to rule on the healthcare law this month, we'll be delving into the implications of the Court's decision too," Dr. Fickenscher adds.

The speaker line-up includes noteworthy physicians, such as Ron Sroka, M.D., whose was featured last year in a New York Times article about independent physician survival; Russell Libby, M.D., F.A.A.P., president-elect of the Medical Society of Virginia; and Kerry Willis, M.D., chief physician strategist of ACO Subgroup Leadership at Proactive HealthCare USA.

For the full agenda, speakers' bios, and registration information, visit www.PhysicianPracticeSurvival.com or call 1-800-431-7571.

About the Physician Practice Survival Conference
The Physician Practice Survival Conference was created to promote a healthy discussion of the business models that can help independent physicians build sustainable medical practices and provide quality care to their patients.

Accreditation Statement
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and Policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education through the joint sponsorship of the Institute for the Advancement of Human Behavior (IAHB) and Briefings Media Group. The IAHB is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Credit Designation Statement
The IAHB designates this live activity for a maximum of 5.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)TM. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.