Penn. committee maps out healthcare reform at state level

A  non-partisan advisory committee charged with mapping out Pennsylvania's implementation of national healthcare reform calls for a consumer-oriented health insurance exchange, clear access and enrollment information, and measures that help the state's healthcare system accommodate the newly insured.

The 47-member committee included consumers, small businesses, labor groups, advocacy organizations, healthcare providers, insurance companies, hospitals, experts and members of the General Assembly and the executive branch. It was chaired by Rosemarie B. Greco, the Governor's senior adviser on healthcare issues and former director of the Governor's Office of Healthcare Reform.

The committee's major recommendations included:

• Creation of a health insurance exchange that has a consumer-oriented mission. While no consensus was reached, the majority felt that this exchange should be established as an independent public agency or authority that is governed by a diverse board with clear prohibitions on conflicts of interest and with a strong management team. In addition, the majority supports an exchange that has authority to negotiate as an active purchaser to drive the best value for employers and individuals.
• Creation of a web portal for individuals and businesses that provides clear, understandable information about coverage available through the exchange, and a customer service call center to assist consumers.
• A shift in how the state pays for healthcare, so that providers are paid based on the efficient use of resources.
• Additional support for safety net providers.
• Strong support for consumers to make informed decisions about options for treatment and take a more active role in their care.

Finally, the committee recommended measures for the state's efforts to reduce medical errors, to improve end-of-life care and to ensure the workforce can meet emerging health needs.

The full report can be accessed here.