Oakland, Calif.-based Kaiser Permanente Chairman and CEO Bernard J. Tyson voiced his concerns about recent efforts to repeal and replace the ACA Sept. 20, arguing the proposed legislation does not increase access to high-quality care and affordable coverage.
In a recent blog post, Mr. Tyson relayed his opposition to a recent bill proposed by Sens. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., and Bill Cassidy, R-La., which the Senate reportedly aims to vote on next week.
He specifically cited his disappointment for the bill's block grant proposal and the proposed repeal of the individual mandate, which he wrote "would erode coverage of needed medical services and pose major issues for state budgets. Repealing the individual mandate without alternative incentives for enrollment will lead to fewer people enrolled and higher premiums."
"Only a few changes are needed to stabilize the ACA for the millions who are dependent upon the law for their care and coverage," Mr. Tyson wrote. "Moving forward, we strongly encourage policymakers to focus on the 30 million Americans currently without coverage as the priority for any additional proposals around health reform, and to ensure that any proposals maintain or expand coverage, provide incentives for high quality, and tackle affordability."
To read Mr. Tyson's full blog post, click here.