Physicians have a greater national economic impact than higher education, home healthcare, legal services, nursing and residential care, according to a report recently released by the American Medical Association.
In 2012, physicians contributed $1.6 trillion in economic activity and supported nearly 10 million jobs, the study found. "Physicians are strong economic drivers that are woven into their local communities by the jobs, commerce and taxes they generate," said AMA President Ardis Dee Hoven, MD, in a news release. "These quality jobs not only support the caring role of physicians, but also generate taxes that support schools, housing, transportation and other public services in local communities."
Nationwide, each physician supported an average of $2.2 million in economic output, an average of 13.84 jobs, $1.4 million in total wages and benefits, and supported $90,449 in local and state tax revenues, according to the report.
The AMA believes data from the report can help advocate for supporting adequate levels of Medicaid reimbursement, as it shows states they benefit directly when physicians have a positive practice environment.