December 19, 2001

Statement from Jordan J. Cohen, M.D., President, Association of American Medical Colleges:

"As representatives of the nation's major teaching hospitals, the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) appreciates the decision by HHS Secretary Thompson to delay the implementation of the 2002 Medicare outpatient prospective payment system (PPS) final rule. In light of the complexities that were involved, there was no easy solution, but on balance we believe that this is a good outcome.

The delay will help to ensure that the 2002 outpatient payment changes are implemented in a way that better serves both Medicare beneficiaries and teaching hospitals. In the months to come, we look forward to working with CMS to make certain that there will be a smooth transition to the new payment changes."

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The Association of American Medical Colleges represents the 125 accredited U.S. medical schools; the 16 accredited Canadian medical schools; some 400 major teaching hospitals, including 74 Veterans Administration medical centers; 91 academic and professional societies representing nearly 88,000 faculty members; and the nation's 67,000 medical students and 102,000 residents. Additional information about the AAMC and U.S. medical schools and teaching hospitals is available at www.aamc.org/newsroom.

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The Association of American Medical Colleges is a not-for-profit association representing all 130 accredited U.S. and 17 accredited Canadian medical schools; nearly 400 major teaching hospitals and health systems, including 68 Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers; and nearly 90 academic and scientific societies. Through these institutions and organizations, the AAMC represents 125,000 faculty members, 70,000 medical students, and 104,000 resident physicians. Additional information about the AAMC and U.S. medical schools and teaching hospitals is available at www.aamc.org/newsroom.

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