Here’s what you need to know.
1. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.) are leading the charge to have a public option offered alongside the private payers on the exchanges.
“We must continue to make needed healthcare reforms so that the American people can have healthcare as a right, not a privilege,” Mr. Sanders said.
2. The measure has widespread support with the Democrats.
3. As private insurers continue to withdraw from the exchanges, Co-founder of the Progressive Change Campaign Committee Stephanie Taylor said a public option could increase competition among payers.
4. The senators will bring a resolution forward that outlines the challenges in the healthcare industry, and how a public option would eliminate them.
5. The ACA was originally supposed to offer a public option, but that was blocked in Congress. President Barack Obama and democratic nominee Hillary Clinton both have supported public healthcare options.
Mr. Obama said that a public option would strengthen competition and would result in “more affordable health plans” for consumers.
More news related to coding, billing and collections:
How metrics will bring providers and payers closer than ever: 5 thoughts
Donald Trump’s updated plan for Medicaid and birth control: 5 things to know
Connecticut’s Insurance Commissioner withdrawing from Anthem-Cigna review: 7 takeaways
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.