Cynthia S. Cooper MD of Gynecology and Infertility Associates PA elected OMSS Representative to AMA

July 10, 2013 Dover NH - Cynthia S. Cooper MD of Gynecology and Infertility Associates PA was recently elected by the Wentworth-Douglass Hospital medical staff as the Organized Medical Staff Section representative to the AMA. She then was appointed the NH Chair of the OMSS, and represented NH at the national AMA meeting in Chicago in June 2013. Dr. Cooper feels strongly that the close doctor-patient relationship must be allowed to be kept intact in any future health care system, and that patients must be allowed to have access to high-quality health care with their personal physician. She gives as an example, “I develop very close ties to my infertility patients. One of my greatest rewards is working individually with each patient until a successful pregnancy is achieved. Fertility treatment requires personalized care for the best outcome, as each patient’s situation is unique.” Dr. Cooper is working on the national level to be sure that close doctor-patient relationships are maintained as the Affordable Care Act is implemented. As past President of the New Hampshire Medical Society, she has closely followed the creation of and the changes brought about by the Affordable Care Act. She notes the new benefits for women including the mandate that insurance cover contraception, without cost to the member, including oral contraceptives, intrauterine devices and even sterilization. Preventive care is also now covered without a copay including the annual pelvic examination, the Pap smear and the screening mammogram. However increased required overhead costs, including the high cost of electronic medical records, required upgrades and required data collection are making it very hard for the solo practitioner to economically survive. More and more physicians are becoming hospital or insurance company employees. This can lead to the conflicting goals of patient treatment and business profits. She agrees with the AMA Principles of Physician Employment which states, “In any situation where the economic or other interests of the employer are in conflict with patient welfare, patient welfare must take priority”.

“It is essential that there is physician leadership and involvement as the health care systems of New Hampshire go through massive change, says Dr. Cooper. “ I plan to advocate for my patients, and to make sure that the citizens of New Hampshire continue to receive optimal health care in the future.”

About Gynecology & Infertility Associates
Located across from Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, Gynecology & Infertility Associates is dedicated to the health and wellness of their patients. Anne H. Kalter, MD, and Cynthia S. Cooper, MD, are board certified and specialize in the practice of gynecology, infertility and urinary incontinence. They practice with Diane M. Knight, APRN.

For more information, call Gynecology and Infertility Associates at (603) 749-4963, or visit http://www.gynecologyandinfertility.com/