SENATOR TOM GEORGE HOLDS HEARING ON MI-HEALTH INITIATIVE AT WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
Today, state Senator Tom George, MD (20th District, R-Kalamazoo) held a public hearing at the Wayne State University School of Medicine on his MI Health legislative proposals that seek to address the uninsured population.
Today, state Senator Tom George, MD (20th District, R-Kalamazoo) held a public hearing at the Wayne State University School of Medicine on his MI Health legislative proposals that seek to address the uninsured population. Attendees, including health care providers, physicians, insurance providers, business leaders, and individuals, were given an opportunity to share their comments and questions regarding this new initiative.
"Fixing our health care system is an important step in fixing Michigan's economy," said Sen. George, a physician who still practices when the legislature is not in session. "The citizens of Michigan tend to be unhealthy and we have a growing number of uninsured. Finding innovative ways to expand coverage to the uninsured will help make Michigan more economically competitive."
The high attendance at today's hearing was a clear sign that there is interest in Sen. George's proposals that encourage individuals to take personal responsibility for their health. Michigan has approximately 1.2 million uninsured residents. The MI Health initiative could potentially provide coverage to as many as 900,000 individuals.
"By addressing this problem, we can also help mitigate the increasing cost of health care that continues to strangle our state's budget. With creative solutions we can fix Michigan and health care reform is one of the keys to turning our state around," said George.
Posted: 6/15/2009