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Speaking of interest groups and reform, this is a very big deal. I've spoken, before, about how the NFIB was probably the most important force blocking reform in 1994, as they helped turn business against it. But cost growth hasn't stopped, and their members -- small business -- are groaning under the weight of insurance. They've already joined various reform coalitions, but now they're readying to make a larger commitment. From my inbox:
NFIB to Launch Major Healthcare CampaignMedia AdvisoryWHAT: For more than 20 years, small businesses have said healthcare costs are their No. 1 issue. Premium increases are placing an overwhelming burden on small business owners while their employees struggle with large deductibles and diminished access to care. The small business community needs comprehensive healthcare reform to address its unique concerns.In 1994, a healthcare reform package was introduced that did not sufficiently address the needs of all Americans. NFIB was a vocal opponent of those reforms and, fortunately, members of Congress agreed and the legislation never became law. But the problem has become a crisis. Now is the time to deliver real and meaningful solutions. The NFIB will announce its plans to embark on a nationwide campaign to engage policymakers, legislators and the next administration on this critical issue.The question, of course, is whether this campaign is actually in service of real health reform or in opposition to it. The NFIB does want the next administration to address health care, but they've been pretty slippery on how they want that done. Their website has some decent ideas, and some terrible ones. And the whole thing is anchored by an anti-single payer article that's maliciously misleading. So I'm not optimistic. But more as I figure it out. If health care goes bad, however, look for these guys to play a larger role than the insurers.
