The big talking point on the Beltway is “cutting health care costs.” I hope people who hear this realize it has nothing to do with them – it really means increasing profits for the insurance companies.

The heist that is being planned by Baucus and Co. in the name of health care reform is quite the scam, as is the MA plan which was the marketing tool for the national proposal – both have little to do with access to affordable, quality, equitable, guaranteed, comprehensive health care.

Unfortunately, those in the Patrick administration and others connected to the Connector et al continue to confuse coverage with access. It doesn’t matter how many have insurance – what matters is the number of residents who can afford to use the insurance (or purchase the premium or pay the penalty) or find a doctor who will see them if they are enrolled in Commonwealth Care – the no-doctor-much-less-choice-of-doctor insurance plans. This product doesn’t deliver.

If you want to read the BCBS gift-wrapping job with a bow on top re capitation, check out the feature story – Sharing the Rewards – in the February issue of Healthcare Ledger. http://healthcareledger.com Ya gotta love the title!

The last paragraph is the kicker – lots in there that shows who capitation benefits and who is ultimately going to be the guiding light. Pity the docs and their patients.