Dr. Jim Schroeder Speaks Out Against Socialized Medicine

Pediatric cardiologist Jim Schroeder spoke out against the 208 Commission's efforts to impose more government interference in medicine in a recent community meeting in Grand Junction. The October 12, 2007 Grand Junction Sentinel reported:

Community discusses health care reform

Dr. Jim Schroeder warned four members of a statewide health reform commission that over-involving government in doctor-patient relations could push a large number of physicians to leave the business.

“The role of government should be to get the hell out of the way and let the doctors meet with the patients,” Schroeder said, his voice wavering with emotion.

Schroeder said any attempt from policymakers to expand existing government-managed health insurance programs or to create a single-payer, government-run health insurance program could allow the state to lower how much it pays physicians for their work.

“If you’re not paid for what you’re doing … you’re not going to stay in the field,” the local pediatric cardiologist said.

Schroeder’s comments came as part of a Thursday evening forum the Senate Bill 208 Commission hosted in Grand Junction to receive feedback on its five possible health care reform proposals.