Find a deep pocket and go for the jackpot. Rare are the patients who can afford a legal challenge against a big, well- financed insurance company. The Democrat's bill would make employers liable for medical malpractice. Patients could sue employers. I can't think of a more certain way to drive up both the cost of health insurance and the number of uninsured people.
Small businesses are especially vulnerable.
One huge claim could wipe them out. Hagel also discussed the impact an increase in premiums would have on individual Americans and employers. We've heard a lot on the floor about quality and access, but we've heard very little about affordability. The rate increases that would hit individuals would also hit employers. Dramatic hikes in health-care costs could cost employees their jobs.