Opinion

Let doctors deduct value of their unpaid time spent treating uninsured

LETTER — Posted Feb. 2, 2004

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I usually do not like to complain, but this time I will. Among those I serve there are approximately 40 patients with no insurance. I do not mind performing surgeries on these patients, however, many never pay anything.

I believe that physicians should be able to deduct their expenses and free services from their taxes. Our time is not free. After I wrote to senators and representatives, it became obvious that they do not care. However, I do not know many other professions where losses are not tax deductible.

Gary Goykhman, DPM, Miami

Editor's note: Dr. Goykhman is a podiatrist at an orthopedic group practice.

Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2004/02/02/edlt0202.htm.

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