McCain Health Plan Calls For Tax Rebates, Increased Competition

Presidential candidate Senator John McCain, R-Ariz., plans to use consumer-driven methods to help control health care costs. In his recently released health care agenda, Sen. McCain said he would offer tax credits of $2,500 to $5,000 to help pay for insurance costs for those without employer-sponsored coverage.. Any leftover funds could be deposited into a health savings account (HSA). In addition to the promotion of more market-driven, consumer-focused methods, McCain also stressed that individuals need insurance that is not tied to one particular employer. “Americans need new choices beyond those offered in employment-based coverage,” he said in prepared remarks. “Americans want a system built so that wherever you go and wherever you work, your health plan is goes with you. And there is a very straightforward way to achieve this.” Sen. McCain included promoting competition among drug manufacturers through “re-importation” of certain prescriptions as one method for reducing health costs. According to his campaign Web page, these other approaches would also cut costs:

• Promoting Coordinated Care. Coordinated care -- with providers collaborating to produce the best health care -- offers better outcomes at lower cost.



• Reforming The Payment System To Cut Costs. Reforming the payment systems in Medicaid and Medicare would help compensate providers for diagnosis, prevention and care coordination.



• Passing Medical Liability Reform. Medical liability reform that eliminates lawsuits directed at doctors who follow clinical guidelines and adhere to safety protocols.