Forum: Costs aren't driven by insurers' profits

August was a critical month in the health care debate as lawmakers returned home to their constituencies to take the temperature of the electorate.

What they heard, at times delivered in emotional tones, was an earful about how Americans are confused - indeed, scared - that their health care is on the cusp of major change. At town hall meetings across the country, they were peppered with crucial questions:

What will reform mean to my family?

Will I have the same level of health care as I had before?

Will my costs go up?

Is health care reform going to bankrupt the government?

The answers varied depending on the lawmaker doing the talking, but from our perspective as insurers, we applaud the quest for a frank and honest dialog between legislators and constituents on such a fundamental issue. However, raised voices and tempers only disrupt and discourage the open dialogue we all need in order to understand the ramifications of the legislation.

At the heart of health care reform is the question of cost. Health care simply costs too much. We spend nearly twice the money of our international peers, but rank a dismal 37th in overall health. What accounts for current excessive health care costs?

These are some of the major drivers: Physicians provide too many services, at least 30 percent of which do not improve health; some 20 percent of hospital patients are readmitted within 30 days of discharge; and pharmaceutical companies challenge generic medications that perform equally well at a fraction of the price.

Additionally, our Medicare and Medicaid programs lack the authority to adopt the best approaches to improving quality while lowering costs.

Looked at another wa

Cheap Car Insurance for Students Discount Tips - car-insurance-for-students.com - by Sinhawk Media - Search - Sitemap