Another Pennsylvania Health Care Reform Proposal

Another Pennsylvania Health Care Reform Proposal in Politics and Legislation

The health care reform plan from Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell isn’t the only proposal on the table in the state Legislature.

State Senate Republicans recently laid out a different approach to reforming the insurance system and providing more affordable coverage.

The plan, named HealthNet PA, includes a collection of different bills that aim at expanding coverage, offering tax credits to businesses and those who open Health Savings Accounts, and helping health care providers start using electronic medical records.

HealthNet PA will also offer better access to free health clinics for low-income residents, along with a new volunteer network of doctors and facilities who will offer free specialty care, reported the Philadelphia Inquirer and the Associated Press.

Residents who cannot find Pennsylvania health insurance because of a pre-existing health condition would be able to get coverage through a new state-subsidized high risk pool — the state would pay one-third of the premium.

The plan will cost an estimated $100 million a year, according to state Senator Edwin B. Erickson.

Financing will come from a few different sources, wrote the AP article — the 25 cent cigarette tax, money from traffic tickets for moving violations, and from extra money from a fund that helps doctors buy medical malpractice insurance.

“This plan is realistic, affordable, and sustainable,” said Senator Erickson.

The main criticism from Governor Rendell’s administration was that the Senate Republicans’ plan doesn’t guarantee enough care for uninsured residents.

But the governor’s alternative plan remains stalled in the state Senate, so it looks as if both sides will have to come to a compromise.

On a final note for the weekend: For all the dads out there, we hope you have a wonderful Father’s Day this Sunday!

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