The Brian Lehrer Show cover image

The Brian Lehrer Show

How Congress Can Change Health Care

Dec 16, 2024
Rachel Cohrs Zhang, Chief Washington correspondent for STAT News, dives into the fallout from the tragic shooting of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO, igniting a national conversation on healthcare reform. She tackles the complexities and inequalities in the U.S. health system, highlighting life expectancy disparities and the Affordable Care Act's subsidy negotiations. The discussion also covers the blame game in healthcare, pharmacy pricing challenges, and rising concerns over Medicare Advantage plans amidst political dynamics. Cohrs sheds light on the pressing need for actionable solutions.
41:52

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Quick takeaways

  • The significant underrepresentation of diverse voices within House committee leadership raises concerns about equitable health policy-making and representation.
  • Congress is grappling with urgent health care reform discussions, emphasizing the need for changes in reimbursement rates and the role of pharmacy benefit managers.

Deep dives

Republican Leadership and DEI Policies

The latest House committee leadership reflects a significant continuity of traditional demographics, as 15 out of 16 chairs are white men, following a campaign filled with anti-Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) rhetoric by House Republicans. This alignment prompts scrutiny regarding the implications for policy-making and representation in issues that require diverse perspectives. The only exception in leadership is Congressman Brian Mask, who brings some diversity but still does not address the broader concerns tied to underrepresentation. This composition is particularly salient considering the potential impact on policies that affect various communities across the nation.

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