BCBSA, Premera Blue Cross, AHA, and AHIP to Unveil Groundbreaking Study

The Healthcare Cost Shift: A Hidden Tax

This webcast will announce a new study by Milliman, Inc. that demonstrates the significant financial impact on consumers and employers due to the cost-shift that occurs from inadequate Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements to hospitals and physicians. The study is modeled on a earlier 2006 study by Premera Blue Cross that examined the impact in their local market.

Representatives from BCBSA, AHA, AHIP and the employer community discuss the findings of the report; the impact of cost-shifting on consumers and employers; and its implications for healthcare reform. Speakers include:

Richard Umbdenstock
President and CEO
American Hospital Association

Scott P. Serota
President and CEO
Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

John Pickering
Principal and Consulting Actuary
Milliman, Inc

Karen Ignagni
President and CEO
America's Health Insurance Plans

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Supporting Materials

• 2008 Milliman Report: Hospital and Physician Cost Shift-Payment Level Comparison of Medicare, Medicaid, and Commercial Payers (Dated December, 2008; Fox/Pickering; PDF)
• 2006 Milliman/Premera Blue Cross Report: Payment Level Comparison Between Public Programs and Commercial Health Plans for Washington State Hospitals and Physicians (Dated May, 2006; Fox/Pickering; PDF)
• Presentation by John Pickering, FSA, MAAA: Hospital & Physician Cost Shift-Payment Level Comparison of Medicare, Medicaid, and Commercial Payers (PPT)
• Press Release from BCBSA: Consumers and Employers Paying Almost $90 Billion Due to Under-Payments to Hospitals and Physicians by Medicare and Medicaid
• Press Release from Premera Blue Cross: Premera Report Spurs National Study, Highlights Dramatic Problem of Hidden Healthcare Tax
• Press Release from U.S. Chamber of Commerce: U.S. Chamber Hails Study Exposing Unfair Shift in Health Care Costs