The new chairman of the National Governors Association has launched his own initiative for healthcare reform.
Vermont Gov. Jim Douglas, who became the NGA's chairman at the end of the group's annual meeting Monday, immediately launched an initiative titled “Rx for Health Reform: Affordable, Accessible, Accountable.” The initiative focuses on the need for health reform to reduce healthcare costs, ensure that Americans get the highest quality of care and provide coverage for those who lack health insurance.
"As the nation stands poised to reform its healthcare system, the time is right for governors to define their roles in creating a more coordinated and efficient system," said Douglas. "My initiative will build on the successes and innovations of states – including our efforts in Vermont – to create a blueprint for comprehensive health reform while implementing possible new federal initiatives."
According to Douglas, Rx for Health Reform will:
- Provide governors with information to transition to a new healthcare system;
- Develop state-based system improvements and cost containment measures; and
- Prepare states for such initiatives as insurance market reforms, state information exchanges and other national health reforms.