A working group comprised of 39 physicians published a "Medicare for all" proposal in American Journal of Public Health, according to U.S. News & World Report Health.
Here are six takeaways:
1. Many group members are members of Physicians for a National Health Program.
2. So far, more than 2,200 other physicians and medical students signed the proposal, which would entail the government entirely funding the single payer system.
3. Under the "Medicare for all" proposal, the program would fund all medically necessary care for all Americans, including illegal immigrants.
4. Adam Gaffney, MD, lead author of the editorial and co-chair of the working group, cited high co-pays and high deductibles many patients face. Dr. Gaffney said many Americans are forced to forgo much-needed care due to high medical expenses.
5. The group's proposal differs from universal healthcare in other developed countries because it allows physicians and hospitals to remain privately owned and operated, although the government could give them a budget to cover all operating costs.
6. The medical group claims a single-payer system would save $500 billion annually as it would get rid of the paperwork physicians and hospitals have to fill out for private health insurance companies. The healthcare industry would use the savings for enhancing public health.
More articles on coding & billing:
Changing the mindset of unhealthy employees — 5 observations
Tenet officials unfazed by UnitedHealth's ACA departure — 3 points
CMS willing to work with legislators on Medicare Part B proposal — 4 insights