Can The Health Care Industry Be Trusted?

President Obama praised the health care industry's promise to cut $2 trillion in cost over 10 years in connection with Obama's health care reform proposed legislation.  Representatives of the insurance industry, doctors, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies and labor groups appeared at the White House and made the pledge.

 

According to a report by the Associated Press the industry group said they would slow the growth of health care costs by 1.5% a year by coordinating care, reducing administrative costs and focusing on quality, efficiency and standardization.  However, initial reports said congress was not impressed by the industry's lack of specifics. 

 

If the health care industry really wanted to do something to reduce the cost of health care they should (1) immediately stop their T.V. adds that tell the people "to check with your doctor if such and such a prescription is right for you."  (2)  Stop all advertising of drugs, especially the most costly ones.  Let the consumer get this information from the doctor.  (3)  Start a nationwide program of prevention, that is the key to a lasting lower health cost.  (4)  Incorporate alternative treatments and medication.  (5)  There are many more that the health care industry is aware of that can dramatically reduce their cost and the cost to consumers. 

 

Congress should not be impressed until the industry spells out the definitive way that cost will be reduced and sustained over many years.  It should also be tied to an ongoing preventative program.  The industry is one of the most wealthiest among corporate America and should step up to the plate and tell the people exactly how they plan to reduce health care cost for the consumer and sustain that savings.  Until they do that congress and the President should remain skeptical.