<p>@Jweinst1 Obamacare is not expanding Medicare, it is expanding private insurance opportunities as well as Medicaid in the states that choose to expand that service. In certain states, Medicaid pays very well for certain specialties. In my state, I know for sure ObGyns do very well with Medicaid. Other states, anesthesiologists, dentists and etc. Doctors do not have to accept Medicaid patients. But remember, Medicaid is a program made for the poor. There are states such that expansion of Medicaid is the only option for patients who currently have NO health insurance. Unfortunately, more often than not, Medicaid doesn’t pay well. But a private practice does not have to participate in Medicaid.</p>
<p>The ACA also expanded private insurance for preexisting conditions. So, we are seeing patients receiving surgeries for preexisting conditions that could not receive coverage last year such as spine surgery. </p>
<p>@absentions I am an anesthesiologist. Despite what people think, we have opportunities for high yield interactions with our patients if we take advantage of it. </p>
<p>I do not advise anyone to forgo their dreams in order to pursue a career with less responsibilities unless that dream interferes with other personal goals. If your dream is to pursue a career as a PA then pursue it. If it is to become a physician, please look at every opportunity to pursue that dream or you may spend a lifetime with regrets. </p>