How Can We Pay for Health Care Reform

by paffairs@urban.org ( Robert A. Berenson, John Holahan, Linda J. Blumberg, Randall R. Bovbjerg, Timothy Waidmann, Allison Cook, Aimee Williams ) In this paper and brief, the authors discuss alternative ways that health reform could be financed. They analyze different options including several proposals for delivery system reforms and for reduction in Medicare and Medicaid payments. They estimate the cost savings that could occur due to the introduction of a public plan option. Finally, they explore a range of revenue options. The key message of the paper is that health reform can be paid for, but it is best to obtain funds from a large number of measures to spread the burden broadly. Read More