CONTACTS: Linda Rozett/Jamal Ware
(202) 463-5682 / 888-249-NEWS

 

Thursday, March 13, 2003

 

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Despite the growing costs, the United States Chamber of Commerce noted employers remain committed to providing health coverage for employees, according to a survey released today as part of Cover the Uninsured Week.

 

“Our nation’s employers voluntarily provide health coverage for millions of American workers and their families,” said Thomas Donohue, Chamber President and CEO. “Businesses large and small want to offer health benefits as a means to attract, and keep, a quality workforce. Containing the costs that are straining our health system is the way to ensure more Americans have health care coverage.”

 

The survey of 600 businesses revealed that company executives view making health insurance affordable and providing coverage to all Americans as the two most important goals for reforming America’s health system. The survey also revealed the majority of businesses have no plans to reduce employee health benefits and virtually no companies will eliminate coverage in the foreseeable future, despite projected cost increases.

 

“Covering the uninsured must become a national priority, and Congress must do more to reduce health costs not associated with providing medical care,” Donohue said. “This survey shows the vast majority of businesses will keep their commitment to voluntarily provide health insurance -- and shoulder the bulk of future costs.” 

 

The U.S. Chamber, and state and local chambers, are engaged in discussions on how best to find workable and affordable solutions to the growing number of uninsured Americans. Solutions advocated by the Chamber include, pooled purchasing for small employers, equitable tax treatment for individuals who purchase their own health coverage and refundable tax credits targeted to those with modest incomes. 

 

The Chamber is sponsoring Cover the Uninsured Week, which runs through Sunday. Eighteen national partner organizations and a total of 140 national groups representing business owners, working men and women, doctors, nurses, insurers and consumers are part of this effort.

 

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

 

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