As part of the 98th International City/County Management Association Annual Conference, a press conference call was conducted regarding the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) and the challenges and opportunities it presents local governments. In this conference, a number of health care and local government experts, leaders, and practitioners shared new strategies from the local government level. The consensus of the speakers was that, while the fiscal impact of rising health care costs is a major concern for local government leaders, emerging strategies such as employee wellness programs and improved dialogue with community stakeholders are showing promise in delivering reduced health care costs and improved community health.
During this conference, Elizabeth Kellar, president and CEO of the Center for State and Local Government Excellence, noted that “Local governments are focused on the fiscal impact of the ACA and concerned about healthcare costs in general, but wellness programs are an emerging and important strategy.” She also referred to an SLGE report, “The Business Case for Wellness,” which found that investments in wellness programs are a viable choice for both improving employee health as well as reducing employers’ costs.
To access a recording of the press call, please visit:
ICMA: Affordable Care Act Press Call (8 OCT 12)
To access the SLGE Report, please visit:
Background information:
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