An Astute Observation

My general opinion of politicians is not favorable when it comes to legislation affecting insurance matters. Most of them seem to follow the winds of surveys and give little thought, if any, to the consequences of their laws.

The AHP (association health plan), AKA the SBHP (small business health plan) has been talked about for some time as the answer to high health insurance premiums. This blog has addressed the issues of the AHP/SBHP before by pointing out how it is no different from the MEWA’s (multiple employer welfare plans) that created so many problems some 20 years ago.

But a lone voice apparently has listened to someone and has expressed an opinion that is non-supportive of the AHP/SBHP. An Ohio Democrat has hit the nail on the head and raised issues that should cause some concern, especially among those who champion the cause of the “little people”.

A Republican-backed U.S. Senate bill that's supposed to help small businesses buy affordable health insurance also would disregard current state insurance laws, says U.S. Rep. Sherrod Brown of Lorain, D-13th.

That means health providers could discontinue coverage for maternity care, many cancer screenings, kidney dialysis, basic children's health care, mental health treatment and diabetic supplies, Brown said.

I have my own issues with the AHP/SBHP, but if this will keep it from becoming law then this person has my blessing.