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.

Accident & Health Insurance, Insurance Carriers, Medical Service and Health Insurance, Forecasts and trends, Health insurance industry

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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.

Health Care, Health Care and Social Assistance, Administration of Public Health Programs, Health Programs, Health care industry, Physician and patient, Physician-patient relations, Public health

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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.

Offices & clinics of medical doctors, Physicians & Surgeons, Offices of Physicians (except Mental Health Specialists), Economic aspects, Human resource management, Supply and demand, Physicians, Medical professions

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