2008 Capitol Conference Report by Ken LaRovere

This year’s Capital Conference was truly a remarkable experience. We had the opportunity to listen to a variety of speakers who discussed a multitude of topics. We were given definitions of various health plan proposals and points of view of politicians and proposals for change. Breakout sessions covered topics of interest. I participated in a session that addressed dealing with the media. I learned that it isn’t enough to state a position, but how necessary it is to make sure that the person you are discussing a topic with not only hears what is being said, but fully understands what points of view are being communicated. It is your obligation to make sure the media understands your position. If they don’t understand, the real possibility of being misquoted exists and incorrect information will be at risk of being disseminated. Carriers often have media departments that address media inquiries, where a carrier representative can refer media inquiries to that department. Agents and brokers don’t have the luxury of having media departments; they must be well informed and be prepared to address questions when asked.

The legislative visits were pre-arranged and were on time. Topics discussed included:
¨ SCHIP
¨ Trade Adjustment Assistance Act Reauthorization/Health Care Tax Credit
¨ Mental Health Parity
¨ The Federal Tax Code and the Tax Exclusion for Employer-Paid Health Insurance Premiums
¨ Access to Health Insurance Coverage
¨ Universal Health Coverage Initiatives
¨ Making Long-term Care Insurance Available through Section 125 Cafeteria Plans
¨ Promoting Greater Access to H.S.A.s
¨ Health information Technology
¨ Wellness

The hot topics were: Health Information Technology, Long-term Care and Access to Health Care. It appeared that SCHIP was a back burner issue.

This trip, I was extremely impressed with seeing first hand, legislators asking questions and truly viewing our members as a resource. Congressman Porter had several questions that could not immediately be answered. Larry Harrison took notes, after leaving Congressman Porter’s office, Larry and I met one of the NAHU staff members, the staffer wrote down the questions, he promised to research the answers and respond promptly to Larry, who in turn will respond to Congressman Porter. This interaction impressed me. This is an example of the value NAHU has for all of us. Credible and timely responses to our questions and concerns. Cap Conference is very important for all of our futures. Getting correct and accurate information in the hands of our legislators is so important.

Cap Conference is an opportunity for legislators to hear our members talk with one voice that is accurate and well informed.