Abstracts » Health

Calif. rate cuts suggest managed competition works

Article Abstract:

The California Public Employees Retirement System (Calpers) kept premiums for its members to 1.5% increase for 1993. The low cost illustrates its bargaining power with health maintenance organizations (HMO) and other providers. For example, when HMO Kaiser Foundation Health Plan Inc raised its rates, Calpers instituted an enrollment freeze that prompted the HMO to drop the increase. Calpers' experience demonstrates one of the first examples of the health care reform theory of managed competition. However, some observers fear costs will be transferred to smaller organizations with less bargaining power.

Insurance agents, brokers, & service, California, Health insurance industry, California Public Employees Retirement System

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Employers lead reform crusade: with health costs shrinking profits, businesses see to lose

Article Abstract:

Employers are seeking ways to lower their healthcare insurance costs for workers. However, their plans for reform depend on the size of their company. Large companies with huge insurance rolls favor nationalized healthcare to relieve them of this burden. Smaller firms, who may not insure their workers at all, favor the current system with the addition of price controls. Descriptions of the the most influential firms, organizations and individuals are presented.

Economic aspects, Employers, Health insurance

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Federal plan a guide to Medicare reform

Article Abstract:

The Federal Employees Health Benefit Program (FEHBP) could be a model for reforms to the Medicare system. FEHBP, which serves 10 million patients, has often been better at controlling costs than Medicare or the private sector. The $15 billion program is controlled by the Office of Personnel Management, and it offers participants in each market a choice from as many as two dozen plans.

Administration of Public Health Programs, Health Care Services, Analysis, Compensation and benefits, Medical care, Public employees, Government employees, Medicare

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