Fierce Healthcare Jan. 6, 2021

Public Option Not likely to pass

Biden has made a public option for ACA plans a centerpiece of his healthcare platform and a bid to sidestep “Medicare for All.” But even though the public option could technically pass with only Democratic votes, it remains unclear whether there are any.

“The way public option saves money is by paying docs and hospitals less, and doctors and hospitals have become an even more sympathetic interest group because of the pandemic,” said Cox.

There is also major opposition from the insurance industry.

Mendelson also has doubts a public option could get through the Senate.

“For a group of people who dedicated themselves to practical approaches, they are relatively less likely to prioritize getting that through,” he said.

But a Democratic-controlled Senate and committees have huge messaging opportunities and could press for more legislation to expand coverage.

“This is not just a matter of what legislation is going to pass,” Mendelson said. “It is a messaging and emphasis and the fact that the leader is going to be talking about the positive things that can happen out of legislation as opposed to not talking at all.”

Likely to Pass

Bolstering the Affordable Care Act

Tackling drug prices

More COVID-19 relief

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