By Nitin Thakor, GeBBS President & CEO
AHA President and CEO Rick Pollack recently sent a congratulatory letter to President-elect Donald Trump and asking him to go slowly on changes to our healthcare delivery system, particularly when it comes to the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This is good advice since healthcare represents a significant portion of the U.S. economy and essential public services. Pollack explained his case in terms that abrupt changes could lead to significant instability for patients, providers, insurers and others.
However, he was not so cautious when it came to Stage 3 Meaningful Use and M&A mergers. Pollack urged the President-elect to cancel Stage 3 of Meaningful Use, standardize the M&A merger review process, and reform the RAC program.
Pollack’s letter highlighted five areas of concern for hospitals: reducing the regulatory burden; enhancing affordability and value; continuing to promote quality and patient safety; ensuring access to care and coverage; and continuing to advance healthcare system transformation and innovation.
In my opinion, much of what Mr. Pollack asked for makes perfect sense. It is my sincere hope that President-elect Trump will understand the consequences of abrupt changes to any financial system. He has already softened his stance on cancelling ACA on Day One of his administration. There are many things wrong with the ACA and reform is needed. I am hopeful that thoughtful men and women of goodwill will come up with a new plan that includes more participation of the private sector and the ability to sell health insurance across state lines.
This will provide a replacement plan that continues to provide a mechanism for individuals to obtain affordable insurance coverage, with realistic deductible amounts. Everyone who works in healthcare knows that the regulatory burdens faced by hospitals and physicians are substantial and unsustainable.
I remain hopeful that thoughtful reform can be accomplished, and we look forward to working within this new healthcare delivery system.
