Post by dgriffin on Aug 10, 2009 3:55:35 GMT -5
CBS News
Consumer Protections Lost In Health Care Debate
WASHINGTON (AP) --
It's one issue in the health care debate that nearly everyone — even the insurance lobby — seems to agree on: Better consumer protections are needed to end the nightmare of not being able to get covered for a treatable, if costly, illness.
Yet such practical considerations are being overlooked in a debate that's become a passionate argument about the government's reach and role in medical matters.
Experts say the bills before Congress include significant consumer protections that would end denial or cancellation of coverage for medical reasons, from high cholesterol to cancer.
Obama may have made a critical error by not stressing the consumer aspects of the legislation, and his advisers seem to have realized it as they belatedly retooled the White House pitch in recent days.
If a bill does pass, the biggest winners are likely to be self-employed people and small-business owners and employees, who now have the most trouble getting and keeping coverage. Those working for big companies would only benefit indirectly; they'd find it easier to keep their coverage if they get laid off or leave to launch a new career.
MORE at:
wcbstv.com/health/health.care.consumers.2.1120762.html
Depending upon the specifics, if Healthcare passes the insurance industry will see the benefit of everyone enrolled and paying premiums throughout their lives, instead of opting out during their younger years. That's why the industry is arguing for the right details, pushing for plans that would guarantee everyone enrolled and paying from cradle to grave.