Sixteen doctors from around the state participated in a phone conference with Senator Mark Pryor to discuss health care reform on Thursday, October 1.

A Conway Physician, Thomas J Reid III, M.D., voices his concerns in the Health Care debate via his blog.  To read more, go to http://doctors-takecharge-healthcare-reform.blogspot.com/

WASHINGTON — As members of Congress flew back to Washington after their summer recess, Arkansas’ Rep. Mike Ross said on Tuesday that he will not support any health-care bill that includes an optional government-run medical program.

Ross staked out his position the day before President Barack Obama is to address a joint session of Congress on health care.

Approximately 35 doctors from around the state gathered recently atop the First Security Building in Little Rock to discuss health care reform with Congressman Mike Ross.

Ross: Health reform won't include gov't option Associated Press (2009-09-01)

(UALR Public Radio) - U.S. Rep. Mike Ross said Monday that he believes some overhaul of the nation's health care system will be achieved this year, but doubts it will include a government-run option.

By John Lyon
Arkansas News Bureau
http://arkansasnews.com/2009/09/01/lincoln-public-option-too-expensive/

LITTLE ROCK — U.S. Sen. Blanche Lincoln said today she opposes a public health insurance option because it would be too expensive.
“For some in my caucus, when they talk about a public option they’re talking about another entitlement program, and we can’t afford that right now as a nation,” Lincoln said in a speech to the Elder Law Task Force at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.

Arkansas physicians have joined together to lend a voice to the national discussion on health care reform. Twenty-three physicians from around the state have formed an organization devoted to a health care system that preserves the sanctity of the doctor-patient relationship, promotes quality of care, supports affordable access to all Americans, and protects patients' freedom of choice.

The New York Times details Senator Blanche Lincoln's position on town-hall style discussions on the debate about health care in Arkansas.

Arkansans gathered at the Jones Center for Families in Springdale to participate in a forum and panel discussion to debate Arkansas health care reform. Read more about the reactions and the skepticism from those from the panel at the Arkanana Gazette.