Calling it a “a bold step in the right direction,” Republican nominee for Governor Brian Kemp unveiled his plan for a patient-centered health system in Georgia Wednesday outside Cook Medical Center in Adel, during a stop on his five-day bus tour across the state.
“We’ve got to do something to lower costs and provide more access and this is a step – a bold step in the right direction. But it’s going to be hard work,” Kemp said. “We’ve got to move the needle, and do it quick.”
Kemp vowed to stabilize individual and small group exchange markets through a reinsurance program that protects against catastrophic claims and covers Georgians with pre-existing conditions.
His plan also tackles the doctor shortage in rural Georgia by beefing up loan forgiveness programs and primary care residency positions. Kemp re-affirmed his support of the Rural Hospital Tax Credit Program and pledged to raise the cap from $60 to $100 million, an issue Republican Lt. Governor candidate Geoff Duncan also stressed in his healthcare plan announced recently.
“While different parts of our state have different concerns, all Georgians – no matter their zip code – want – and deserve – access to quality healthcare at an affordable price,” said Kemp.
“As governor, I will work to lower insurance costs, ensure access to quality care, expand insurance options, cover those with pre-existing conditions, and spur innovation to address systematic healthcare challenges in our state.”
As a small business owner and entrepreneur, Kemp said he supports association health plans, which allow Georgia companies to link together and offer better coverage with competitive rates to their employees and families. He asserted that market forces would ultimately drive down costs.
Kemp’s plan includes the creation of a Commission on Behavioral Health to address the state and national problem of mental health and substance abuse – including issues like school security, teen suicide, and PTSD amongst veterans. He also plans to coordinate efforts among research institutions, academic hospitals, the private sector, and the healthcare technology industry to work towards a cure for Alzheimer’s disease.
“We will see lower costs, improved access, and better healthcare outcomes throughout Georgia,” said Kemp.
Other highlights of the plan:
* Set specific, achievable goals to lower the uninsured population by expanding choices
* Limit surprise billing through expanded network coverage, up-to-date provider directory
* Grow telemedicine services in areas with limited connectivity by empowering the private sector to provide High Speed Internet
* Identify specific clinical priorities of infant and maternal mortality, opioid abuse, and severe mental illness, which need greater attention and focus; Develop strategy for each to improve access to care and quality of life.
