This article at PlanSponsor.com reports that defined contribution health plans are becoming more popular since they “engage the consumer in the cost of care, thereby making them more cognizant of what medical care really costs.” The article discusses a report from Atlantic Information Services, Inc. (AIS), a publishing and information company in the health care industry. The article also reports on an earlier study by Deloitte & Touche which finds that “[m]ore than half (52%) of the companies surveyed agreed that CDHPs will result in immediate employer-cost savings, while slightly more than one third (36%) believe these new plans will reduce the long-term health care cost trend.”
Marguerite Higgins for the Washington Times reports: “House advances small-business health care.” The article reports that “The Small Business Health Fairness Act” passed the House 262-162 with the support of 36 Democrats. The bill allows small businesses to band together to purchase health insurance through a national association at group rates.
UPDATE: PlanSponsor.com also reports on “The Small Business Health Fairness Act (HR 660)” here.