Serious Implications

Single Payer Health Plan Moves Forward

Minnesota Senate File 118 (S.F. 118) Minnesota Health Plan passed another milestone when it was approved by the state Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee by a party-line 7-3 vote. The Physicians for a National Health Plan has the story by Kip Sullivan posted here.

State Senator Mary Olson had this to say:

“I have to tell you, there is no such thing as a perfect system anywhere in the world, but some work better than others. We went to Thunder Bay and then to Winnipeg. We heard an overwhelming message: No one in that country would trade their system for ours. They thought it was outrageous that people in this country can be bankrupted by medical bills. Canadian doctors said they wouldn’t tolerate third parties interfering in their relations with patients the way insurance companies in this country interfere in the doctor-patient relationship.”

The legislation is sponsored in the state Senate by Sen. John Marty with a companion in the House, H.F. 135, sponsored by Rep. David Bly.

With President Obama tonight calling for major health care reform, it remains to be seen whether or not Congress can get beyond gridlock over this vital issue – or if the states will lead the way.