Healthcare Policy Overview

The passage of federal healthcare reform legislation, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), is a historic step forward. Still, much remains to be done in order to create a truly cost-effective, world-class system that keeps Americans as healthy as possible.

The implementation of the ACA comes during a time when California’s state budget remains in dire shape and the overall economy faces a slow climb out of recession. Rising healthcare costs to businesses, individuals, and governments, therefore, remain a critical and urgent challenge.

The Bay Area Council uses the clout of its membership to effect change at the state and federal levels. We work to leverage innovations in cost and quality improvements and support the implementation of best practices as a part of the implementation of the ACA. The Council also works to provide influence into the regulatory process on behalf of employers and citizens of California.

Recent Accomplishments

• Worked to pass legislation AB 1602 and SB 900, establishing a new state insurance exchange for one-stop comparison shopping for health insurance.

Priorities

• Lead the California business community in identifying and developing best practices for the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, with the goal of cost effective and efficient health delivery.

Healthcare Committee

Chairperson: Greg Adams, President Northern California, Kaiser Foundation Health Plans and Hospitals

The Healthcare Committee is focused on statewide implementation of the Affordable Care Act and its associated reforms. We advocate for programs, reforms, and best practices that hold promise of improving quality and bringing costs under control. The Committee provides input for state and federal legislation designed to raise the quality of healthcare, bend the cost curve, and improve the health and wellness of Californians.