House expands health‑care task force to study cost containment and billing practices

Representative Byron L. Harwood introduced House Bill 330 to broaden the charge of the state health‑care access task force to include examination of market‑based steps to lower costs and to encourage efficient use of procedures. Harwood said the task force had received suggestions from state employees and others about systemic improvements and should examine a wider range of issues related to access and cost.

Representative Paula Julander offered an amendment directing the task force to study “restructuring of benefits and packages that provide incentives toward appropriate, preventive, cost‑effective treatment strategies.” Julander described the amendment as directed toward cost containment and urged support; members including Representative Howard and Representative Franson spoke in favor of the amendment. The amendment was adopted on the pink sheet and incorporated into the bill.

Representative Reese Hunter proposed adding a study of alternative modalities including homeopathy; that motion failed on the floor after members questioned scope and relevance. Later floor amendments focused on studying billing and pricing methodologies for medical services; Representative Hayman’s amendment to study methods of billing and pricing and ways to reduce costs was added and accepted.

After discussion and sum‑ups by supporters, the amended bill was placed to a vote. House Bill 330, as amended, passed the House 68–1 and will be forwarded to the Senate for further consideration.