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Health Reform Push: Hospitals, Consumers, Legislators Make Their Case

WBUR's Martha Bebinger
WBUR's Martha Bebinger

In a nutshell:

The governor wants to move the bill now.

Hospitals don't want a plan that's too "government-centric".

The Attorney General wants transparency.

Consumer groups want better, more patient-centered care

Four more hearings on the bill will take place around the state.

Meanwhile, The Boston Globe reports that some providers are trying to beat the system by locking in deals with insurers before any new cost-control measure becomes law:

State Inspector General Gregory W. Sullivan warned Patrick in a letter this month that some providers are rushing to lock in long-term contracts with insurers before the law takes effect. He urged lawmakers to quickly pass the provision in the bill allowing the Division of Insurance to review those contracts when deciding whether to approve premium increases.

This program aired on May 17, 2011. The audio for this program is not available.

Headshot of Rachel Zimmerman

Rachel Zimmerman Reporter
Rachel Zimmerman previously reported on health and the intersection of health and business for WBUR. She is working on a memoir about rebuilding her family after her husband’s suicide. 

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