WASHINGTON – November 13, 2008 – The following is a statement from Regence BlueCross BlueShield President and CEO Mark Ganz in response to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus’s (D-Mont.) new white paper on health reform, “Call to Action: Health Reform 2009”:
“Reforming our country’s broken health care system must be a top priority for the incoming Administration and Congress. As the turbulent global economy has rightly held our collective attention in recent weeks, we applaud Chairman Baucus’s strong commitment to reform. His call to action clearly demonstrates the urgent need for health reform, as the two issues are closely connected. “
“We’re encouraged that the 111th Congress will take up broad health reform, and in particular call policymakers’ attention to insurance market reform. Whether a small business owner, a store clerk, or unemployed person, all Americans should have access to quality, affordable health care throughout their lives. We look forward to working with Senator Baucus and all stakeholders – the new Administration, Congress, providers, insurers, and consumer groups – to reform our nation’s health care system.”
About Regence
Regence is a leading health insurer in the Northwest / Mountain State Region, offering health, life and dental insurance. Regence serves nearly three million members as Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon, Regence BlueShield (selected counties in Washington), Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah and Regence BlueShield of Idaho. Each plan is a not-for-profit independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Regence is committed to improving the health of our members and our communities, and to transforming our health care system. For more information, please visit regence.com.