Enzi and Hatch Concerned with Affordability of Essential Health Benefits

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.), Ranking Member on the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), Ranking Member on the Senate Finance Committee, urged the Institute of Medicine to consider the impact of federal benefit mandates on the cost of health insurance and on access to health insurance as premiums increase on individuals and families.

“If the Secretary defines an essential health benefits package that includes a high number of mandated benefits and mandated providers, premiums will increase, taxpayer costs will rise, and patients will have fewer choices in deciding the plan that best meets their needs,” wrote the Senators.  “It is therefore critically important that the Institute of Medicine emphasize affordability and consumer choice, and place a strong emphasis on affordability in your report to the Secretary. We urge you to fully consider the impact of federal benefit mandates on taxpayers and patients and avoid a one-size-fits-all approach in the recommendations you provide.”

The letter is attached.

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