government
Alternative to health system reform law proposed
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted Oct. 10, 2011
Rep. Tom Price, MD (R, Ga.), has introduced a bill to repeal and replace the health system reform law.
Dr. Price said his proposal would make the purchase of health care feasible for all Americans. The bill preserves employer-based coverage and includes tax credits for the uninsured to purchase plans on the individual market. Credit amounts would be tied to averages for insurance on the market and adjusted for inflation.
The bill also would promote wellness and prevention by offering discounts that encourage healthier lifestyles. The legislation would provide medical liability reform by setting a $250,000 cap on noneconomic damages.
"The Empowering Patients First Act would provide the opportunity for all Americans to have health coverage, solve the insurance challenges of portability of health insurance and preexisting illnesses and injuries, end the practice of defensive medicine with robust lawsuit reform, all without putting the government in charge," Dr. Price said.
The bill had seven co-sponsors at this article's deadline.
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2011/10/10/gvbf1010.htm.
