AMA report finds physicians support 139,373 jobs and $33.9 billion in economic activity in ohio

The Ohio State Medical Association (OSMA) announced that a report released by the American Medical Association (AMA) shows that office-based physicians play a vital role in Ohio’s economy by supporting jobs, purchasing goods and services, and generating tax revenue. In 2009, office-based physicians in Ohio contributed $33.9 billion in economic activity and supported 139, 373 jobs.

“Although physicians are primarily focused on providing excellent patient care, physician offices, and the jobs and revenue they produce, are significant contributors to state economies,” said AMA President Cecil B. Wilson. “This study illustrates that office-based physicians contribute to both the general health of their patients and also to the economic health of their local communities.”

The study found that, in comparison to other industries, office-based physicians almost always contribute more to local economies than each of the following: hospitals, legal services, nursing homes and home health care.

“Providing high quality patient care is the first and foremost role of physicians in Ohio,” said OSMA President Richard R. Ellison, MD. “However, as this study shows, the practice of medicine helps drive a large portion of Ohio’s economy. At a time when our state continues to rebound from the recent poor economic conditions, we need to invest in areas, such as health care delivery, that are engines of economic activity in our state.”

Findings show the economic impact of office-based physicians as measured through sales revenue, jobs, wages and benefits and tax revenue. The report provides information on the economic impact of office-based physicians in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. In Ohio, office based physicians supported $21.5 billion in wages and benefits, and generated $1.6 billion in taxes. To view the full report, please click here.