There has been so much written as well as discussed on the news about healthcare reform. We at BHM have begun the long process to fully evaluate the 2700 plus page bill and the impact to consumers, payers and providers of healthcare. The bill has other aspects that are attached that are not directly related to healthcare but that is a discussion for another day and blog. Most of what I have read about the bill was politically slanted either for or against depending on the political leaning of the reporting organization. I read, a few days ago, an article from Newsweek which I found interesting and wanted to share. From Newsweek one would expect to be leaning in favor of the new legislation. The article ” A Cost Control Mirage“ Obama is telling people what they want to hear about health care, not what they need to know by Robert J. Samuelson | Newsweek Web Exclusive.
The jest of the article is that healthcare reform as passed will increase cost with potential little improvement in overall health of the nation. Mr Samuelson begins to discuss the standard payment method used in this country ( fee of service) and how it pays providers for procedures and office visits when patients are sick. This payment structure possibly encourages increased utilization and does not encourage providers to help patients maintain or improve their health. He focuses on medical economics and the misperceptions that are held about health insurance reform. Until we can empower consumers with information and reward healthy choices, we will probably not see change. BHM’s April newsletter that will be addressing Behavioral Economics/Pay for Prevention. This will be released April 6, 2010. You can sign up and the newsletter will be emailed every other month.
Posted by Mark Rosenberg 
