The Health Care Blog had an article a week ago : "I Am Not Bound To Win. But I Am Bound To Be True", that describes some of the lessor known provisions of the new healthcare reform law.
"Under the reconciliation bill Medicare will have the power to roll out successful ‘pilot projects' nationwide—without waiting for Congressional approval. In the past, Medicare has launched many very successful ‘demonstration projects’ that improved quality while cutting costs. But because these were ‘demonstration projects,’ and not ‘pilot projects,’ Medicare could not implement them without going through Congress.
For example, one demonstration project ‘bundled’ payments to doctors and hospitals involved in by-pass surgery at seven hospitals, encouraging doctors and hospitals to collaborate in figuring how to make care more efficient. As a result, Medicare saved millions; both hospitals and doctors actually saw higher profits, and patient satisfaction soared. Yet Congress never let Medicare implement the project on a larger scale."
This line, "Ultimately the Republicans did reformers a gigantic favor by presenting such unwavering opposition to reform." reminded me of something from the Supreme Court. Apparently Clarence Thomas' far right views and refusal to compromise drove Sandra Day O'Connor to the left. The result of his appointment was a shift in the court to the left.
"Did you know, for instance, that Medicare beneficiaries will be able to get preventive care recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force without paying a co-pay or worrying about a deductible? This provision goes into effect January 1, [2011]. Six months after the legislation passes, private insurers also will be required to offer free preventive in any new plans that they offer to the public."
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