Three years after Massachusetts enacted its health insurance reform law, the state boasts the lowest rate of uninsurance nationwide. Yet, the model is still surrounded by public controversy, especially as the nation explores health reform. This article gathers physician opinions about the Massachusetts health reform legislation and its implementation.

Researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health designed and analyzed a survey of 2,135 physicians in Massachusetts in August and September of 2009. The researchers examined physician perceptions of overall Massachusetts Health Reform Law, and views on both personal practice impact and statewide health care impact.

Key Findings:

• Seventy percent of physicians surveyed were in support of the legislation; 13 percent opposed it.
• Similar levels of support were reported by primary care doctors and specialists.
• More physicians give the Massachusetts health care system an excellent or good rating as compared to the national system.
• Seventy-five percent of physicians wanted to continue the law; 29 percent wanted to keep the law as is; while 46 percent wanted to continue it with some changes.