NABIP Creates 10-Point Health Care Bill of Rights

Members of the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals are going on the offense in Washington.

Instead of waiting for medical societies, patient groups and activist groups to develop frameworks for improving the U.S. health care and health finance system, the group has come up with a 10-item health care bill of rights.

NABIP, the Washington-based group formerly known as the National Association of Health Underwriters, has emphasized that people need real access to affordable care, not a choice between affordable care or access to care.

Eric Kohlsdorf, NABIP’s resident, said that individuals should be in the health care system driver’s seat.

“Unfortunately, the system has become too cumbersome for so many people,” Kohlsdorf said.

Here’s the NABIP Health Care Bill of Rights:

1. Affordable health care access: Emphasizing the right of every American to affordable health care services.
2. Quality care standards: Holding health care providers accountable to maintain the highest levels of care.
3. Privacy and confidentiality: Ensuring the protection of patients’ medical information.
4. Individual autonomy in health care: Upholding the right to informed decision-making in medical treatments.
5. Health equity: Addressing and eliminating health disparities to ensure equitable health care for all.
6. Health education: Prioritizing comprehensive health education to empower individuals.
7. Affordable medications: Implementing policies for affordable and accessible medications.
8. Emergency care for all: Guaranteeing the right to emergency medical care without financial hardship.
9. Effective health care advocacy: Establishing systems for health care advocacy and assistance.
10. State consumer protection: Empowering states to protect health care consumers within their jurisdictions.

Eric Kohlsdorf. Credit: NABIP