Insurance Execs Offer Views On Health Costs, Reform
Former Kaiser Permanente CEO George Halvorson and Blue Shield of California CEO Paul Markovich share their perspectives on where Obamacare is headed and how the nation can curb health care spending.
PBS NewsHour: Former Health Care CEO Argues America's Medical System Rewards Bad Outcomes
Judy Woodruff talks to George Halvorson, former CEO of Kaiser Permanente and author of "Don't Let Health Care Bankrupt America," who argues we spend too much money on care that doesn't deliver optimal benefits. How can the U.S. alter its approach to serve all Americans more cost-effectively and with better outcomes? ... We need to have the health care business system focus on improving care (Woodruff, 1/17).
Los Angeles Times: How I Made It: Blue Shield Of California CEO Paul Markovich
As chief executive of Blue Shield of California, Paul Markovich leads one of the country's largest nonprofit health insurers, and he is a major player in the state's rollout of Obamacare. ... Markovich doesn't have to go far to hear complaints nowadays. Frustrated customers are venting about poor customer service in the transition to new health plans as part of the Affordable Care Act. Blue Shield recently apologized for its "unacceptable" performance. "Exchanges and health plans in California and across the country have been overwhelmed by last-minute volume and deadline extensions, which is causing serious delays," Markovich said. "I believe we will work through all of this soon and ultimately make the Affordable Care Act a success" (Terhune, 1/19).