US President Barack Obama has unveiled new plans to reform US healthcare and revive stalled legislation on the issue, aiming for bipartisan support.
Mr Obama’s proposal “helps over 31 million Americans afford healthcare who do not get it today - and makes coverage more affordable for many more”, the White House said on its website.
It gives the federal Health and Human Services Department - in conjunction with state authorities - the power to deny substantial premium increases, limit them, or demand rebates for consumers.
This comes after one of the biggest companies, Anthem Blue Cross of California, announced it would raise premiums by as much as 39% from 1 March.
Mr Obama’s latest plan requires most Americans to take out health insurance coverage, with federal subsidies to help many afford the premiums.
It bars insurance companies from denying coverage to people with existing medical problems or charging them more.
A tax on high-cost health insurance plans objected to by House Democrats - and trade unions - is to be scaled back.
On Thursday he will hold bipartisan talks at the White House on the issue.
The Republican reaction to Mr Obama’s efforts has so far been critical, with House Republican leader John Boehner saying the proposals took the same approach as that of previous Democratic bills.
Read more at BBC Health.
Tags: US healthcare
