2008 Presidential Campaign Platforms: How Managed Health Care Issues Impact Us All

With the 2008 elections in full swing, several presidential candidates are proposal changes in the way our country looks at healthcare. With universal healthcare as a priority issue for many voters, the presidential candidates are hoping to not only entice the voters with their pledges to end the Iraq war, but also to ensure every American has access to health coverage.

At present, in the United States, there is a growing concern over the mismanagement of managed care programs, such as HMOs. Because those insured under managed care programs often report complications associated with access to healthcare, there are many American voters who will vow to only vote for the candidate who can bring a major impact to healthcare reform.

So, why is our current health care system not working? For managed healthcare plans, such as HMOs, statistics have reported they have an overwhelming imbalance of profits, from premiums, versus claim payments. In fact, with managed care, very little is paid in terms of claims as doctors, hospitals and other "in-network" health providers are paid a flat monthly fee for all patients enrolled, and assigned, to their care. For this reason, there isn't much incentive for a healthcare provider to make the appropriate referrals to specialists and outside care facilities as this would result in dollars lost to clinic or physician.

When considering a managed care plan, there are several factors you should consider before choosing which plan is right for your family. It is important to first remember that the sales person, employed by the managed care plan, is there to promote a product they feel is best. In many cases, it may be necessary to shop around and find the plan that is right for your family. Check with your state insurance board as, oftentimes, they can supply a history of complaints and lawsuits that have been filed against the particular managed care plans you are considering.