There’s no question that we need to reform health care.  Health care costs are escalating and too many people can’t afford to get the care they need.  But President Obama’s health care reform bill is not the answer.  We need a health care system that allows you to get the treatment you need, when you need it – without interference from government bureaucrats.

The key to reform is for Washington to get out of the way, and let the states implement innovative policies that fit the circumstances of their state.  In South Dakota, we are fortunate that only 9% of adults are uninsured.  That’s one of the best rates in the country.  But we also have over 100,000 people on Medicaid, and half of the babies born in South Dakota are enrolled in CHIPS.  These programs account for a major portion of the growth in state spending.
 

Congress has passed a health care reform bill, but many of its provisions do not take effect immediately.  In addition, some portions of the reform bill may be repealed or reformed – especially after the midterm elections.  In fact, some lawmakers are already urging repeal of the entire bill.  The next governor will have to attempt to comply with federal laws in a way that lessens the burden on South Dakota and its citizens.  I will also join with my my fellow governors in resisting this massive expansion in federal power, and in urging Congress to roll back many of the reform bill’s provisions.  

In the mean time, South Dakota needs to do more as a state to encourage wellness and prevention, to keep health care costs low.  A considerable portion of health care costs is caused by a relatively few people with serious health problems.  In South Dakota’s Medicaid program last year, just 327 enrollees accounted for over $40 million in costs.  By encouraging wellness and prevention, we can prevent these catastrophic health conditions.

One of the most significant causes of health problems is tobacco.  As a state senator, I was a leader in the fight to reduce tobacco use in South Dakota.  We need to do more to discourage our young people from starting to smoke, and to encourage current smokers to quit.

Another important challenge facing South Dakota’s health care system in the years to come is the need for a larger health care workforce.  You can read about ideas to address this challenge in my job creation plan, Building a Stronger South Dakota.