COLLECTIVE BARGAINING I: Ad Blasts Doctors’ Union Bill
With Congress preparing to debate a bill that would allow physicians to collectively bargain with health plans, the Antitrust Coalition for Consumer Choice in Health Care is running a radio ad arguing against the measure. The coalition is composed of insurance corporations, nurses associations and other health-related interest groups. The 60-second spot equates a physicians' union with the "greedy OPEC cartel" responsible for the high cost of gasoline. The ad asserts that HR 1304, sponsored by Rep. Tom Campbell (R-Calif.), would create an "OPEC for doctors," while driving up health care costs. Airing this week in the Washington, D.C. area to coincide with House floor discussion of the measure, the ad urges people to "[t]ell Congress to oppose the Campbell 'OPEC for Doctors' bill." To listen to the ad, click here or type http://video.cloakroom.com/2000archive/05/0519accchc1.rm in your Web browser. Note: To hear the ad, you will need RealPlayer G2 (National Journal Group, 5/23).
This is part of the California Healthline Daily Edition, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.