House Committee Approves Physician Collective Negotiation Bill - Quality Health Care Coalition Act of 1999

American Family Physician,  May 1, 2000  by Rosemarie Sweeney,  Verna L. Rose

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On March 30, the House Judiciary Committee voted 26 to 2 to approve the Quality Health Care Coalition Act of 1999. Known as the "Campbell" bill because of its sponsorship by Rep. Tom Campbell (R-Calif.), the measure would permit physicians to join together to negotiate with health plans regarding provisions of contracts.

Allowing physicians to form collective bargaining units increases their ability to advocate on behalf of physicians, particularly in regard to the ability of physicians to make appropriate clinical decisions within the construct of a large health plan. While facilitating the ability of physicians to negotiate in good faith, the legislation does not enable physicians to strike. The action moves the legislation closer to a vote by the House of Representatives. Currently, physician organizations are seeking a sponsor in the Senate.

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