Changing the system: implications for physicians
Article Abstract:
The ongoing debate over health care reform is essentially a fight over who will control health care in the US. Recently, health care providers have seen more of their power seized by payers. Some trends in health care seem evident: the growth of group practices and salaried practices, shrinking numbers of allied health care professionals, dependence on data-based quality assessment and cost containment. Although the details of health care reform packages have yet to be worked out, most will probably seek universal access to health care, control of pharmaceutical prices, insurance reform and capitated payment plans that discourage overuse of tests and procedures. Most reform plans being discussed hinge on coordinated care by primary care physicians, but there is an acute shortage of primary care physicians in the US, particularly in rural and inner city areas. How this dilemma will be resolved remains to be seen.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1993
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What price survival? The future of Blue Cross and Blue Shield
Article Abstract:
Many Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans have changed dramatically since the concept of pre-paid insurance was begun in 1929. The plan was originally a pre-paid hospital benefit for teachers in Dallas. Almost anyone could enroll and the non-profit plans had a strong social commitment to their communities. In the 1990's, many plans have switched from indemnity insurance to managed care and some have even converted to for-profit status to raise capital. Some plans have also consolidated. Many plans retain their social mission and their 70-year history illustrates that they may survive the massive changes in health care in the US.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1998
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