AUM Nursing Professionals React to Health Reform | News

MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) -- Dr. Areline Morris is a nursing professor at auburn university Montgomery campus.

"I'm not sure if this is the best solution," Dr. Morris said.

She says there are many benefits to the Affordable Care Act, but there are also a lot of unknowns.

"The way we pay, the way it is provided and the options to us," Dr. Morris said.

Dr. Morris says for Alabama, Medicaid expansions are not clearly defined and she along with others will be watching to see how that plays out.

And what about the intended consequences?

"Decisions may be made regarding healthcare more by our insurers than they have in the past. That is also to be determined," Dr. Morris said.

Dr. Morris says there's already a shortage of nurses and other providers in the state. Now more access means an even greater demand.

"[It] will involve more use of nurse practitioners, advanced practice nurses in greater roles for primary care," Dr. Morris said.

But she says this new act should prompt of us to take responsibility for our own health and make sure we taking preventive measures to stay healthy.

"But I'm concerned that people making the decision may or may not be the ones that are providing the care," Dr. Morris said.

A landmark decision that many are waiting to see how it immediately impact them when they walk in the doctor's office.

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