Panel to Discuss Health Care Reform in Grand Rapids
Julie Bitely
| 2 min read
Confused by health care reform? You’re not alone. It can be difficult to keep up with policy changes on a federal and local level, despite the fact that those decisions affect your health care. A recent Gallup poll shows that 78 percent of Americans are dissatisfied with the cost of health care and 71 percent would describe the current U.S. health care system as being in a “state of crisis” or as having “major problems.” So, where do we go from here? A panel of experts will take on the issue at the next Health Forum of West Michigan, scheduled for Friday, March 2. The forum is an opportunity for community conversations around public health to take place every month at Grand Valley State University. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network sponsor the discussions. Panelists for the upcoming talk include:
- Todd Anderson, director of Public Policy and Regulatory Affairs, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
- Laura Appel, senior vice president and chief innovation officer, Michigan Health & Hospital Association
- Frank E. Belsito, chief physician executive of System Integration & Alignment, and chief population health officer, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
- Marti Lolli, senior vice president, Priority Health
Anderson said Blue Cross’ philosophy regarding reform is to keep core principles in mind when evaluating new public policy proposals. Ideally, changes would improve access and quality of care, reduce cost and help Michiganders lead healthier lives. As a company, one way Blue Cross takes a proactive approach to uphold those principles is through our Value Partnerships programs, with innovative approaches such as patient-centered medical homes and hospital pay for value initiatives. While he doesn’t have a crystal ball, Anderson said change is inevitable. As the largest health insurer in the state, Blue Cross will continue to advocate for thoughtful public policy that leads to more access to affordable, high quality care, while aiming to effectively serve our members and prepare them for whatever changes may come. Register to attend the panel discussion here. Want to know more about health care reform and what Blue Cross is doing to improve access and decrease cost? Read these blogs:
- Michigan's Individual Marketplace: The Facts You Need to Know
- Holding the Line on Health Care Costs
- National Summit Aims to Expand Collaborative Quality Initiative Model to Other States
Photo credit: Ted Eytan
