Statement From Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association President And CEO Scott P. Serota On Today’s White House Meeting
June 22, 2010
WASHINGTON – “We were pleased to be invited to the White House today and appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with the administration as we both work to implement healthcare reform.
“As we told the president, Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies are committed to making healthcare reform work for all Americans. We made several recommendations on how to take a pragmatic approach to implementation to minimize additional costs.
“Underlying healthcare costs and current economic conditions are driving increases in health insurance premiums. We have a range of initiatives underway to rein in costs and improve quality, and we know more needs to be done to address rising hospital, prescription drug, and other costs. With respect to the new insurance reform rules that become effective this year, these rules have the potential to add costs to what we’re already experiencing today. The magnitude of these increases will depend on the specifics of the rules.
“We are hopeful that this meeting begins an era of partnership between the administration and the private sector, with the goal of improving quality, affordability, and access for all Americans.”
All participation in Blue Ambassadors is strictly voluntary. While BCBSA believes all Americans should engage in the healthcare reform debate, you are participating as an individual and not on behalf of BCBSA or the 39 locally-based, community-operated Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies. Any messages you send to Congress through this website reflect your personal views and opinions.