WHEREAS:

The inability of physicians to negotiate with insurers is a national problem, threatening their capacity to deliver accessible, affordable and high quality health care; and

WHEREAS:

The federal government has the ability to alleviate this crisis by allowing independent contractors to engage in collective bargaining, under prescribed circumstances; and

WHEREAS:

The great majority of legislation related to collective bargaining exists on the state level; and

WHEREAS:

The ability of physicians to use the "'Messenger Model" to communicate with insurers is limited.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME supports passage of legislation that will permit self-employed physicians to engage in collective bargaining.

SUBMITTED BY:

Henry Nicholas, President and Delegate
Joseph Franklin, Secretary and Delegate
NUHHCE/AFSCME District 1199C
Pennsylvania