[Ed Zachary]

Insurance companies are not healthcare providers...

Everyone, and I mean EVERYONE!, should be reminded of this at least once a day.

 

[terry_p]

Until insurance companies can be brought under control, there will be no relief in healthcare costs.

Huh????? Insurance companies are the reason for higher medical costs?? How about the tort lawyers and government(s) no allowing insurance companies to compete across state lines. Tort reform and competition will go a lot further to control costs than any government involvement will.

 

[jlh820]

Huh????? Insurance companies are the reason for higher medical costs?? How about the tort lawyers and government(s) no allowing insurance companies to compete across state lines. Tort reform and competition will go a lot further to control costs than any government involvement will.

The only thing that influences is what providers have to pay for malpractice insurance. Again, the money goes to the insurance companies.

I think there should be some sort of regulation on how and what can be sued for and restrictions, if not caps on compensation. Out of pocket and lost wages are a given. Beyond that, it should be proven. Things such as pain and suffering cannot be measured by the dollar, and therefore should not be paid as such.

 

[Ed Zachary]

...Things such as pain and suffering cannot be measured by the dollar, and therefore should not be paid as such.

True, but money is the only thing that lawyers care about and understand, so that is the medium of choice.
Remember, too, that the loser pays both sides' attorneys' fees. If the loser's insurance pays, that is all the more excuse for the insurance companies to jack the premiums while pointing the finger at someone else.