Buffalo, NY – The quality of health care has declined in Erie County over the past few years, according to a survey of doctors conducted by the Medical Society of Erie County.
Eighty two percent of those surveyed say their ability to deliver care has declined, and 45 percent say they re referring patients who need specialized care to facilities outside the area.
According to the report, the doctors blame HMO restrictions and low reimbursement rates from insurance companies.
"As troubling and frightening as these comments seem to be, it does not mean we aren't delivering quality care," Dr. Donald P. Copley, president of the medical society, told the Buffalo News.
Erie County Executive Joel Giambra had asked the medical society to undertake the survey in light of the exodus of local physicians from our area.