Some doctors are concerned that the qualified recommendation from a CDC advisory panel could create insurance coverage problems.

The reduction follows an earlier 4% cut ordered by the governor in July. The Legislature rejected a proposed physician tax that would have increased payments.

Physicians credit the state's damage cap. But the tort reforms face a state Supreme Court challenge.

Infection-control products, however, are seeing a surge in orders from physicians.

A lack of growth in residencies could help fuel a physician shortage, AAMC officials say.

The National Institutes of Health awarded the money from the federal stimulus bill.