Last Updated: Feb 9, 2025
The Pennsylvania Medical Society (PAMED) wholeheartedly supports Governor Josh Shapiro’s comments made during his recent budget address, which highlighted the growing issue of private equity's negative impact on healthcare and patient care in the Commonwealth.
Private equity firms have increasingly taken control of healthcare facilities and practices, prioritizing profit over patient care. This pressure to meet financial targets compromises quality, creating an unsustainable environment for physicians and eroding patient trust.
“The growing influence of private equity in healthcare threatens the foundation of medical care,” said PAMED President Lynn Lucas-Fehm, MD, JD. “PAMED is deeply concerned that these financially driven practices are leading to a system where patient care is secondary to profit margins.”
PAMED also applauds the Governor’s call to increase incentives for the existing Primary Care Loan Repayment Program, which will enhance access to physicians and other health care professionals, ensuring quality patient care for Pennsylvanians in rural communities.
Additionally, PAMED supports the expansion of mental health services in the Commonwealth for all patients, regardless of their age, to find information and support networks and end the stigma surrounding mental health.
PAMED remains committed to advocating for policies that prioritize patient care and uphold the integrity of our health care system.
Media Contact:
Myla Merkel
MediaRelations@pamedsoc.org