DC health mandate generates pullout threat from provider

As states and other governmental bodies consider health reforms, there have been some repercussions in the business community, of course. In DC's case, the impact could be quite severe, as the region's largest private healthcare provider may pull its physician network--along with its planned $5 million annual contribution--out of the region if DC's current reform package goes through. The District's Healthy DC legislation originally would have required that its 45,000 uninsured residents receive special subsidized health coverage, which would be available for premiums of between $20 and $100 per month, or else pay a $250 fine. It would be made available to those making more than $21,000 per year who couldn't afford traditional coverage.

The city had entered into a contract with CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, a not-for-profit health insurer, to provide the special coverage. However, CareFirst has since expressed concerns that the $50 million program might not be financially viable.

To learn more about the dispute:
- read this Washington Post article
- read this statement from D.C. Councilmember David A. Catania, who backs the reforms

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