My hospital system has been working on a plan for if/when these healthcare laws take effect. If we aren't ahead of the game when these go into full force, we will sink. I fully expect stand alone systems to collapse rather quickly. These laws have decreased the reimbursement to hospitals/physicians to the point that it doesn't even cover the physical products necessary for a hospital stay.
Last month our lab had to lay off 5 techs and eliminated their positions permanently. We are now expected to give 110% daily. Our CEO specifically referenced the Obamacare (Tax) that will create a Medicare "breakeven" for us to aim for in the future and that these cuts were necessary to achieve that goal. And not to mention our nurses are being spread over more patients. The more people are stretched in a stressful environment the more mistakes are made.
More people will be losing their jobs and/or positions will not be filled when employees leave. This is the reality for healthcare systems/professionals.
So, yes, I'm disappointed in the decision.
I do believe this will happen. The insurance premiums will go through the roof.