Healthcare Reform

What will reform do? Require greater numbers of individuals either to carry health insurance or pay a penalty Provide health coverage to greater numbers of low-income individuals through expanded Medicaid (MediCal in California) programs Strengthen the nation’s healthcare system by reducing waste, fraud and abuse Invest in technology that allows for encrypted exchange of patient health information among authorized providers Encourage partnering opportunities between healthcare providers to use resources more effectively and expand the continuum of care before and after hospitalization Introduce health insurance reform over the next several years that addresses: Medicare drug discounts Extended coverage for young adults Small business tax credits Pre-existing health conditions For more information, go to www.hhs.gov   What is Cottage is doing? Focusing on the quality of care we provide to our patients remains the most significant driver; establishing and reinforcing evidence-based protocols remains an essential part of that quality. See our Quality data here >> Efficiency is key. Shorter lengths of stay reduce costs for everyone and future reimbursements will focus on value and effectiveness rather than volume. We’re helping members of our medical staff with the technology expenses of establishing electronic health records (EHR) in their offices. We will continue to review alignment opportunities with other providers in our communities so that together we can integrate the delivery of high-quality and cost-effective care to all patients.