Cosmetic and plastic surgeons are voicing opposition to a recently added “elective cosmetic medical tax” that was unveiled Wednesday within the latest healthcare reform bill.
”SEC. 5000B. IMPOSITION OF TAX ON ELECTIVE COSMETIC MEDICAL PROCEDURES.
”(a) IN GENERAL.-There is hereby imposed on any cosmetic surgery and medical procedure a tax equal to 5 percent of the amount paid for such procedure (determined without regard to this section), whether paid by insurance or otherwise.
”(b) COSMETIC SURGERY AND MEDICAL PROCEDURE.-For purposes of this section, the term ‘cosmetic surgery and medical procedure’ means any cosmetic surgery (as defined in section 213(d)(9)(B)) or other similar procedure which-
”(1) is performed by a licensed medical professional, and
”(2) is not necessary to ameliorate a deformity arising from, or directly related to, a congenital abnormality, a personal injury resulting from an accident or trauma, or disfiguring disease.
See more of the bill at Politico.com
The most common objection being cited is that the tax unfairly targets services that are purchased predominantly by women. Dr. Jennifer Walden appeared on Fox news last night to discuss the problems with this proposed tax.
