NFIB Offers Small Businesses Health Reform Guidance
The National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) recently described some of the considerations relevant to small businesses as the healthcare debate continues across the U.S. These were outlined on the company’s website.
The organization notes that the status of the healthcare system is highly relevant to small businesses because of their financial susceptibility. NFIB outlines a policy platform that is appropriate for such organizations.
The first consideration in any policy effective for small businesses is that access to coverage will be universal, ensuring that all U.S. residents have access to healthcare treatment and protection from the consequences of catastrophic health events. In addition, healthcare coverage should be portable as residents move within the boundaries of the country.
A second point that the NFIB outlines is that the private sector should maintain the majority of control providing health insurance. Government programs that extend their reach are less flexible in providing care for the diverse American populace. The NFIB cites the problems inherent in single-payor systems as evidence against adopting such.
Healthcare costs, as well, are an issue of interest. Those costs must be kept under control, in addition to both predictable and reasonable for both individuals and small businesses. The NFIB also wants to provide opportunities for small businesses to have the same amount of negotiating power as existing big businesses and government agencies. The tax benefits and oversight offered to larger organizations should be available to smaller businesses as well as the self-employed.
The healthcare marketplace needs to become increasingly competitive. This will support the overall growth of the quality of care delivered in the healthcare market, as well as research endeavors. Competitiveness will mutually foster the growth of a system that is transparent and efficient. Those factors, then combined, will reduce overall costs faced.
Two final points are that medical practice should be evidence-based, recognizing the benefits of preventive and wellness care. This is critical to ensuring the success of the system; compliance with treatment-based guidelines will provide patients nationwide with high level quality care. Realistic development of such a system requires realistic and prudent decision making. The constant goal throughout plan for reform is providing all individuals across the U.S. with coverage.
December 21, 2007 Related topics: Partnerships & Consortia