Chicago-based Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and America's Health Insurance Plans in Washington, D.C., voiced concerns Sept. 20 about an ACA repeal bill proposed by Sens. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., and Bill Cassidy, R-La.
The bill, among other propositions, calls for the elimination of the ACA's individual mandate requiring the majority of Americans to obtain health insurance and moves insurer subsidies and Medicaid funding to state block grants.
Here are three things to know.
1. While BCBSA said the "current market is not working," the parent organization of 36 independent health plans raised concerns about how consumers, marketplace stability and Medicaid funding would fare under the bill.
" … We share the significant concerns of many healthcare organizations about the proposed Graham-Cassidy bill. The bill contains provisions that would allow states to waive key consumer protections, as well as undermine safeguards for those with pre-existing medical conditions. The legislation reduces funding for many states significantly and would increase uncertainty in the marketplace, making coverage more expensive and jeopardizing Americans' choice of health plans."
2. AHIP, one of the insurance industry's largest lobbyists, said the proposed legislation fails to ensure market stabilization and accessible coverage for all Americans. AHIP responded to the bill in a letter to Senate majority and minority leaders.
"The Graham-Cassidy-Heller-Johnson proposal … would have real consequences on consumers and patients by further destabilizing the individual market; cutting Medicaid; pulling back on protections for pre-existing conditions; not ending taxes on health insurance premiums and benefits; and potentially allowing government-controlled, single payer health care to grow," the letter reads.
3. BCBSA and AHIP join the American Medical Association and other national organizations in contesting the Graham-Cassidy bill.