Navigating a Dynamic Legislative Landscape

Physician organizations across the nation are bracing for a complex and potentially transformative year in state-level healthcare policy. The AMA’s survey, encompassing responses from 64 medical societies – representing all 50 states and the District of Columbia – highlights the challenges and priorities that will shape legislative action in 2026. This proactive assessment allows for strategic preparation and advocacy as healthcare continues to evolve.

Scope of Practice Concerns Dominate

The most pressing concern identified in the survey, cited by a striking 89% of respondents, centers on scope of practice. Physicians are anticipating legislative efforts from non-physician groups seeking expanded independent practice rights and prescription authority. This raises fundamental questions about the appropriate level of oversight and the potential impact on patient safety. Maintaining team-based care, where physicians collaborate with other healthcare professionals, is seen as crucial to delivering optimal outcomes.

Medicaid Policy Under Scrutiny

With 72% of physician organizations planning active engagement in Medicaid-related legislation, the program remains a central focus. Key priorities include securing adequate physician reimbursement rates, stabilizing program funding to ensure long-term viability, streamlining administrative processes to reduce burdens on providers, and adapting to evolving federal requirements, such as community engagement stipulations. These efforts are viewed as essential for preserving access to care for vulnerable populations.

Addressing the Physician Workforce Crisis

The ongoing shortage of physicians continues to exacerbate access issues, with 67% of respondents prioritizing solutions. Proposals gaining traction include expanding the number of residency slots available to graduating medical students, increasing funding for graduate medical education programs, and implementing or bolstering loan repayment programs to incentivize practice in underserved areas. The post-pandemic maldistribution of healthcare professionals adds further urgency to these efforts.

Telehealth and Licensure Flexibility

Modernizing medical licensure and expanding telehealth access are also high on the agenda for many state medical societies. Approximately 67% of respondents are focusing on initiatives such as establishing pathways for internationally trained physicians to practice in the U.S., promoting the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact to facilitate cross-state practice, and increasing flexibility for telehealth services, particularly in rural and underserved communities. This survey highlights the need for adaptable regulations in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.

Public Health Priorities and Emerging Issues

Despite ongoing political divisions, public health remains a top-five priority. Vaccination policies, reproductive health access, tobacco control measures, and end-of-life care considerations are all expected to be subjects of legislative debate. Furthermore, the implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, with its focus on rural health transformation, Medicaid adjustments, and marketplace affordability, will demand significant attention.

Beyond these core issues, lawmakers are also grappling with the implications of private payer reforms – including prior authorization requirements and the need for greater payment transparency – and the regulatory challenges posed by the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and other technological innovations in healthcare. What role will AI play in diagnostics, treatment, and patient care, and how can we ensure its responsible implementation? And how can we balance innovation with the need to protect patient privacy and data security?

The AMA is actively supporting these advocacy efforts through its new State Advocacy Accelerator Grant Program, providing targeted resources to help physicians drive meaningful change at the state level. “This survey shows that state medical societies are united around protecting patient safety, strengthening Medicaid, and addressing a workforce crisis that is straining access to care,” stated Dr. John Whyte, AMA CEO and Executive Vice President. Learn more about the AMA’s advocacy initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions About Healthcare Policy Changes

• What is the biggest concern for physicians regarding healthcare legislation in 2026?

  The most significant concern, cited by 89% of physician organizations, is the potential expansion of scope of practice for non-physician providers, and the impact this could have on patient safety.

• How is the AMA supporting physicians in navigating these legislative changes?

  The AMA is providing targeted resources through its State Advocacy Accelerator Grant Program to help physicians advocate for evidence-based policies at the state level.

• What steps are being considered to address the physician workforce shortage?

  Proposed solutions include expanding residency slots, increasing funding for graduate medical education, and offering loan repayment programs to incentivize practice in underserved areas.

• Why is Medicaid policy a key focus for physician organizations?

  Medicaid policy is crucial because it impacts access to care for vulnerable populations, and physician organizations are advocating for adequate reimbursement, stable funding, and streamlined administrative processes.

• How will telehealth regulations be impacted by these legislative efforts?

  Efforts are underway to promote the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact and increase flexibility for cross-state telehealth care, expanding access to care for patients in remote areas.