Big health care networks invite government control
Article Abstract:
Despite the defeat of President Clinton's health care reform plan, hospitals and providers are forming huge health care networks that virtually monopolize the market in their areas. State legislatures may be required to act as regulators of these networks, since Congress is unlikely to act on insurance reform issues before the 1996 elections. The insurance industry is divided on this issue, with five major companies supporting universal access and managed care but not employer mandates. Smaller companies are against universal access but favor employee mandates. Health insurers face a bureaucratic web of state commissions and insurance departments.
Publication Name: Best's Review Life-Health Insurance Edition
Subject: Insurance
ISSN: 0275-0988
Year: 1995
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Gag rule bill heads for bipartisan approval
Article Abstract:
The Patient Right to Know Act, which has bipartisan support in the House, would fine health plans that instruct physicians not to tell patients about certain information regarding treatment, diagnosis or other subjects. For example, doctors have been instructed not to disparage a health plan that refuses to offer certain tests. Managed care plans, health maintenance organizations and preferred provider groups complain that the proposed law would prevent them from offering good medical care at reasonable prices.
Publication Name: Best's Review Life-Health Insurance Edition
Subject: Insurance
ISSN: 0275-0988
Year: 1996
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Managed care strategies creating doctor surplus
Article Abstract:
An excess supply of specialty physicians and hospital inpatient facilities has resulted from managed care initiatives as insurers gain more control over health costs. Doctors and hospitals are accepting reduced revenues in exchange for greater volume as demand for medical services declines. The growth trend in the health care industry is expected to reverse itself as government reimbursement declines and competition intensifies.
Publication Name: Best's Review Life-Health Insurance Edition
Subject: Insurance
ISSN: 0275-0988
Year: 1996
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
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