Health reforms get qualified business support

As might be expected, business groups continue to be cautious about supporting health reforms, though some CEOs of major companies have developed data that argues in favor of some current reforms.

Among the more optimistic supporters is the Business Roundtable, a group representing the CEOs of large companies. The group, which commissioned an analysis by consulting firm Hewitt Associates, concluded that current reforms could save up to $3,000 per employee by 2019 if reform elements strike the right balance.

On the other hand, small business leaders continue to argue that reform efforts are likely to hurt their bottom line. They worry that they won't be able to afford even low-cost insurance for their employees, according to groups like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the National Federation of Independent Business.

The small business groups are particularly opposed to the public option, arguing that it's likely to pay less than cost-level reimbursements. If that happens, hospitals and doctors are likely to make up the difference by charging private insurers higher rates, which will in turn get shifted to employers, the groups suggest.

To get more detail on businesses' reform issues:
- read this Kaiser Health News piece

Related Articles:
Obama pitches small businesses on reform
Reform: See where different healthcare industry groups stand
What happens to illegal immigrants under reform?

Post a comment