Don’t health plans create a lot of the current inefficiency?
Health plans have exacerbated cost shifting and other forms of zero-sum competition that have not contributed to value. Past practices of health plans are one of the reasons why there are calls for a single payer. However, as we describe in the book, a system of competing health plans can add value, by moving away from the narrow role of “payer.” Many health plan leaders are now recognizing the need for new roles, and becoming a positive force for enhancing value for their members. The book discusses new roles and strategies for health plans in detail.
