Strange: Must it always be a “war”? Depending on which aspects you emphasize, the demise of the “Family doctors” was well underway during the deregulation period of the early 80’s. The rise of specialty operations predates that though and has little to do with deregulation. Others might argue that the rise of HMOs were the real culprits. But however you look at it, in this case it’s the same. You are clutching at just another thing to throw at Obama. His healthcare program (which I oppose) was a campaign promise he made in 2008. It is no surprise to his supporters or the nation as a whole.