Secondary Reforms

The primary differences between the three fundamental reforms (Insurance Reform, Tax Reform, and Tort Reform) and the secondary reforms outlined below are the speed at which they impact American healthcare and the size of their effect.

If made a priority, Congress could implement Insurance Reform, Tax Reform, and Tort Reform within a matter of months. Taken together, these reforms would lower the cost of healthcare in America by 10 to 15 percent within the two years. Businesses can use the money saved on healthcare to hire new employees or increase wages. Fundamental healthcare reform can serve as a highly efficient economic stimulus package.

In contrast, the secondary reforms outlined below will not significantly impact the cost of healthcare for 5 to 10 years. However, because these secondary reforms will make American medicine more effective and efficient over time, we must begin the process of comprehensive reform now.

• Develop a Standardized Electronic Medical Record
  
  
• Develop a Central and Simplified Electronic Billing System
  
  
• Promote the "Best Practices" in Medicine
  
  
• Encourage Preventative Medicine
  
  
• Incentivize Smoking Cessation and Weight Loss
  
  
• Initiate an "Ask About Generics" Campaign
  
  
• Encourage End-of-Life Discussion Between Patients, Families, and Physicians