On February 2, the House Ways and Means Committee sent out a news release discussing policies to be included in the reform of the country’s health care system. Describing the current system as a “failing bureaucracy”, the Republican leadership in the committee say they are looking to “[move] toward the concept of a ‘health care backpack’”, which would provide ways for Americans to better direct, coordinate, and access their own care. The “A Better Way” plan relies heavily on personal health savings accounts, and also seeks to increase portability of health insurance and the sale of insurance plans across state lines.
Several committees held hearings on health care related matters last week. Some key hearings (with links to testimony and video where available) are linked below:
