When premiums were rising in the 80s and early 90s and the number of uninsured approached 40 million, we had a great debate about cost containment and universal coverage. After 1994, when costs stabilized, many policymakers turned their attention from those who do not have insurance to the quality of insurance for those who do have it. Hence, the passage of the insurance portability law and our ongoing focus on patient protections. This subcommittee will consider proposals next week that I believe deal with both in a measured, balanced way. I have said at previous hearings that we must be aware of the trade offs that occur when we place additional regulation on employer sponsored health plans.
More regulation means higher costs, and higher costs means reduced coverage.
We may differ on the degree of that phenomenon, but I think we all acknowledge it exists. I would ask the members to focus on that as well.