Seeking to replace the coverage framework under the ACA, competing Senate proposals released this week pursue vastly different strategies for addressing health care coverage; one seeks to shift responsibility to the states while the other proposes a more substantial federal role by establishing a Medicare-like benefit for all U.S. residents
On September 13, Republican and a Democratic Senators released two diametrically opposed comprehensive proposals for moving forward with an Affordable Care Act (ACA) alternative and the next iteration of health care coverage reform. The first proposal, introduced by Sens. Graham (R-SC), Cassidy (R-LA), Heller (R-NV) and Johnson (R-WI), would repeal and replace portions of the ACA while also implementing a per capita cap payment methodology for the Medicaid program. The second proposal, introduced by Sen. Sanders (I-VT) and supported by 16 Democratic Senators, puts forward a “Medicare for all” approach to coverage, effectively replacing insurance markets as they currently exist.
