Health Care Reform Panel Eight

The task force heard testimony from a panel of representatives from the American hospital industry on proposals to hold down the costs of hospital stays for patients. The representatives discussed the causes for high hospital costs and possible initiatives to control them without reducing the quality of care for patients. Some promoted Universal healthcare, others described hospital costs by bringing down unnecessary care and consolidating fees. Integrated delivery for enrolled patients was discussed as well as capitation and the specific need of healthcare for children. Most did not want government control of the healthcare system. close