CHICAGO – Nearly 9 in 10 physician organizations are bracing for battles over scope of practice laws in state legislatures this year, signaling a potentially disruptive shift in healthcare delivery, according to a new survey.
The survey, encompassing 64 medical societies-including all 50 states and the District of Columbia-highlights the key healthcare priorities and challenges expected to dominate state-level legislative action in 2026. Beyond scope of practice, Medicaid policy and physician workforce shortages are also top concerns.
“Across the country, physicians are bracing for a year of consequential policy decisions that will directly effect patient care,” said Dr. John Whyte, CEO and Executive Vice President.”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. Through our new State advocacy Accelerator Grant program, we are delivering targeted resources to help physicians drive real impact at the state level and advance smart, evidence-based policies that put patients first.”
The most pressing concern for 89% of physician organizations is scope of practice. Anticipated legislation from non-physician groups seeks expanded autonomous practice and prescription authority,prompting physicians to emphasize the importance of safeguarding patient safety and maintaining team-based care models.
Medicaid policy is another critical focus,with 72% of respondents planning active engagement in related legislation. Priorities include boosting physician reimbursement rates, stabilizing program funding, streamlining administrative processes, and adapting to federally mandated community engagement requirements-all seen as vital for ensuring high-quality care and patient access.
Physician workforce shortages continue to plague states, with 67% of respondents prioritizing solutions.Proposed remedies include expanding residency slots, increasing funding for graduate medical education, and bolstering loan repayment programs to address post-pandemic maldistribution and shortages.
Medical licensure and telehealth are also high on the agenda for 67% of respondents, with efforts focused on establishing new licensing pathways for internationally trained physicians, promoting the Interstate Medical licensure Compact, and increasing flexibility for cross-state telehealth services.
Public health issues,frequently enough subject to political debate,remain a top-five priority,encompassing areas like vaccination policy,reproductive health,tobacco control,and end-of-life care.
The implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is a major undertaking for most medical societies in 2026. Key issues include the Rural Health Transformation Program,Medicaid enrollment and eligibility rules,provider tax changes,and marketplace affordability.
Other meaningful issues shaping the policy landscape include private payer reform-specifically addressing prior authorization and payment openness-and regulatory responses to the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and technological innovation in healthcare.
Explanation of Changes & How Questions are Answered:
* From Thin Update to Substantive news Report: The original text was more of a summary of survey findings. The edits maintain the factual information but present it in a more news-oriented style, with a clear lead and focus on the implications of the findings.
* Why: Physician organizations are preparing for legislative battles over scope of practice, Medicaid policy, and workforce shortages as these issues directly impact patient care, access, and safety.
* Who: The survey involved 64 medical societies representing all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Dr. John Whyte, CEO and Executive Vice President, provided a statement. Non-physician groups are pushing for expanded scope of practice.
* What: The key issues are battles over scope of practice laws, Medicaid policy changes, and addressing physician workforce shortages. The survey highlights these as the most pressing concerns for physician organizations in 202
