Healthcare reform could increase shortage of primary care doctors

President Obama was on the defensive as he backed his health reform proposal today. He held a town hall meeting in Portsmouth, New Hampshire attempting to set the record straight on his proposals.

“There are legitimate concerns about the public option. I think it’s a good idea but I understand some people just philosophically think that if you set up a public option that that will drive private insurers out. I think that´s a legitimate concern I disagree with it, but you know that´s a legitimate debate to have. But everyone understand though, the status quo is not working for you.”

Protestors continued their vocal opposition, lining the streets outside the venue where President Obama spoke.  

Meanwhile, in Washington DC, a conference on primary care addressed the shortage of primary care doctors in the US. As FSRN's Leigh Ann Caldwell reports, the shortages are long-standing and could be more severe if more people gain access to the health care system.