The single payer plan is the only health system that requires each individual to contribute to the risk pool in direct proportion to one's ability to pay. The major change with a single payer system is not in who will provide Americans with health care, but how they will receive payment for their services. In a single payer system, there is only one payer, an independent agency. The issue is whether American doctors will work in a system that is government fostered through a single payer plan or one that is insurance company owned. Those who oppose the bill say that the business community is against the state mandates.
Some businesses favor incremental, market-driven reform.
The private sector can serve the market of the general populace. This bill creates a Missouri Universal Health Assurance Program to provide health insurance coverage for all Missouri residents and for nonresidents who work in Missouri who pay the appropriate taxes. The program will be governed by a 22-member board of directors comprised of gubernatorial appointees, representatives of regional health policy development districts, and state officials. The board will reflect the racial and ethnic diversity of the state and will include at least two disabled members. The Governor will also appoint an advisory council in each of six regional health policy development districts.