Exercising everyday and not smoking could bring more than good health to those who participate. In Michigan it could mean cost savings for Medicaid patients who sign on to a healthier lifestyle.
On the premise that good habits bring down the cost of health care, Republican state Senator Tom George announced plans this week to sponsor a bill that would allow Medicaid patients who don’t smoke and who excercise regularly to pay less for services. The bill would also give state contracting preferences to businesses that have employee wellness programs.
Addional proposed legislation would add the use of tobacco as a factor in setting health insurance premiums and require elementary schools to offer physical education classes for a minimum of 30 minutes two days a week.
George, an anesthesiologist from Portage, said high health care costs contribute to the state’s economic troubles. The senator also believes that unhealthy behaviors contribute to at least 25 percent of health care costs.
The Medicaid proposal isn’t new. It was introduced last year but was stalled in budget negotiations. This year Republicans will try to address the issue outside the budget process, George said.
Hearings on the health initiatives will be held this spring, according to an Associated Press story.
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