January 30, 2025
New Poll: 96% of South Carolinians Demand Physician-Led Healthcare in Critical Procedures
Nina Jackson
njackson@scmedical.org
(803) 237-3148
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Poll: 96% of South Carolinians Demand Physician-Led Healthcare in Critical Procedures
Data Show Widespread Opposition to the Elimination Of Physician-Led Healthcare
COLUMBIA, S.C. – New polling from Starboard Communications indicates widespread opposition to the efforts of some to eliminate physician-led healthcare this legislative session.
The recently conducted study shows a vast majority of South Carolinians hold deep objections to allowing non-physician medical professionals to perform medical procedures and practices – such as administering anesthesia, performing surgery, or managing an emergency room – without physician oversight.
Top-Line Findings:
- 96% of respondents said that, when it comes to medical issues that require anesthesia, surgery, or other invasive medical procedures, it is "important" that a physician be involved in those services or treatments.
- 85% of respondents said that, when it comes to their own health care or that of a family member, it is "important" that a physician be involved in their diagnosis or treatment decisions.
- 77% of respondents said they "oppose" changes to the scope of practice that would allow nurse anesthetists to administer anesthesia without physician oversight.
- 83% of respondents said they "oppose" changes to the scope of practice that would allow nurse practitioners to manage an emergency department with no physician oversight.
- 76% of respondents said they "oppose" changes to the scope of practice that would allow physician assistance to open independent practices with no physician oversight.
- 81% of respondents said they "oppose" changes to scope of practice that would allow physician assistants to manage an emergency department with no physician oversight.
- 74% of respondents said that changes to scope of practice allowing more healthcare professionals without a medical degree to perform medical procedures would make such procedures “less safe.”
Mayes DuBose, M.D., president of the South Carolina Medical Association said, “Every member of a healthcare team is critical. Diverse training and shared accountability are necessary for a well-functioning whole. But when things go wrong or a split-second decision is required, a physician should be leading the team.
“Patients deserve dedicated care led by the most highly trained healthcare professionals – physicians. Efforts to eliminate physical-led healthcare are misguided and inappropriate, harm the quality of care, increase costs, and endanger patients. I hope the South Carolina General Assembly will take this into account as they consider the issue over the next several months.”
For more information on the elimination of physician-led healthcare efforts, visit: scmedical.org/protectpatients.
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About South Carolina Medical Association
Founded in 1848, the South Carolina Medical Association is the premier organization for South Carolina physicians of every specialty and geographic location across the state. Its purpose is to advocate for quality medical care and good health on behalf of the citizens of South Carolina, as well as to represent the physician voice — regardless of their practice setting.
