Governor Schwarzenegger’s healthcare reform package is getting mixed reactions around the state. The head of Blue Shield of California calls the plan bold and visionary. But a major consumer group says the proposal doesn’t go far enough. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.
Governor Schwarzenegger’s plan would require all Californians to have health coverage. Insurance companies would have to insure everyone, regardless of their medical condition. Companies would have to spend 85 percent of every premium dollar on patient care.
Jamie Court is president of the Foundation for Taxpayer and Consumer Rights. He admits the governor would require insurers to change the way they operate.
Court: The problem is he’s forcing every individual in the state to buy health insurance, but failing to guarantee that premiums are affordable. There’s no regulator saying you’re charging to much, or your doctors and hospitals are charging too much.
The governor says his proposal is only the beginning. Court fears consumers may not get a better deal.
Kenny Goldberg, KPBS News.
