http://www.alabamapolicy.org/gary_blog/article.php?id_art=428
A document from the National Conference of State Legislatures recently came across my desk innocently entitled, “State Legislators’ Check List for Health Reform Implementation.” I was astonished, to say the least, at the check list of sweeping mandates, requirements to change state law to ‘conform,’ questions on who will run state high-risk pools, Medicaid funding ratios and dozens of different complex challenges for 2011 state legislatures in order to comply with the newly enacted Obama health care law.
The Obama Administration will move forward with this implementation, along with the creation and expansion of 159 new federal offices charged with administering, which also means Alabama’s new governor will be faced with multitudes of complications to be implemented as required by federal law.
Which means we should pay attention to how both candidates have indicated they would respond, right? So, what about Democrat candidate Ron Sparks?
A review of Democratic candidate Ron Sparks’ public statements on health reform does not reveal much. The Birmingham News reported that Sparks said “… the federal overhaul of health care is now the law and state legislators early next year must take up measures to come into compliance with it.” What is his approach to health care reform, especially if Obama’s health care law is repealed? As you might expect, he proposes to rely on regulating and taxing gambling as a way to raise money to fund public health programs. Nothing new there.
Doesn't sound so good. Now, what about Robert Bentley?
The Republican candidate, Dr. Robert Bentley, is much more detailed and thoughtful in laying out state-driven reform measures. Bentley does not mince words on the Obama health care plan, “It’s the worst thing that has happened in this country and as governor I will stand up and fight it.” Bentley is also prepared with a number of reforms that will create a 21st century approach to personal health care and access.
Bentley would like to create competition among insurance companies which, he believes, would drive down the cost for Alabamians. His plan expands tax incentives to companies to provide wider health insurance coverage.
Very significantly, Bentley’s plan also would establish Health Savings Accounts which would allow consumers to contribute pre-tax funds into the account dedicated to paying for medical costs. Coupled with high deductible insurance policies, Bentley argues that it will save Alabamians millions of dollars. Bentley also suggests creating health savings accounts as a way for state and education employees to address health insurance costs, retirement costs and state pensions.
Significantly, Bentley wants to create incentives and opportunities for more primary care physicians.
I don't agree with Bentley on every issue, but on this one he stands head and shoulders above his opponent.
I urge you to read the entire piece at the link provided above.
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