By Following last week's health care summit and release of his health care reform proposal, the President today urged Congress to end the debate and bring health reform across the finish line. In his remarks, the President painted a vivid picture of what it means to not pass health reform, including more uninsured families, additional people denied coverage because they are sick, and skyrocketing premiums. Yesterday, we reported on what doing nothing would mean to families.
The Proposal
On Tuesday, the President also sent a letter to congressional leaders outlining two other ideas that he is willing to consider for inclusion. One idea was suggested by Sen. Barrasso to allow the Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) in the Exchange.
The other idea (which was initially raised by Sen. Grassley at the summit) would address what the President acknowledged are "inadequate" reimbursement rates in Medicaid. Improving doctor reimbursement would help increase access to care for the millions of new families entering Medicaid under health reform. As you may recall, the House bill already includes a phased-in increase in Medicaid reimbursement rates (tied to those offered in Medicare) for primary care services, with the federal government picking up the tab for most of the increased costs. It is not evident whether this or a similar provision will ultimately make it into a bill but the President's recognition of the issue is a positive sign.
We expect legislative language soon and will provide more details then.
Timing/ProcessPresident Obama said the time for discussion is over and that he wants an "up or down" vote scheduled within the next couple of weeks. Media reports suggest that Democratic leaders are indeed leaning toward going the reconciliation route. In the world of congressional rules, this means that the House would first pass the Senate health bill for the President's signature, followed by both chambers passing, through a simple majority vote, a second bill containing the various "fixes." Reports have continued to cite a middle to end of March timeline.
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