Thursday, March 3, 2016

#### TRUMP'S HEALTH PLAN--GOOD,COMMON SENSE

Thomson Reuters

TRUMP RELEASES HEALTHCARE   PLAN


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WASHINGTON, March 2 (Reuters) - U.S. Republican presidential front-runner candidate Donald Trump on Wednesday unveiled proposals for reforming U.S. healthcare that included repealing Obamacare, allowing prescription drugs to be imported, and turning the Medicaid program for the poor into block grants to states.
The plan also calls for the sale of health insurance plans across state lines, full deduction of health insurance premiums from income tax and adds: "We must also make sure that no one slips through the cracks simply because they cannot afford insurance."
Trump, who is the front-runner in the race to become the Republican nominee in November's presidential election, is also proposing allowing individuals to use Health Savings Accounts to pay for out-of-pocket expenses. Contributions to HSAs would be tax-free and could be passed on to heirs without any tax penalty.
The proposals include requiring "...price transparency from all healthcare providers, especially doctors and healthcare organizations like clinics and hospitals. Individuals should be able to shop to find the best prices for procedures, exams or any other medical-related procedure."
On drug prices, Trump departs from standard Republican policy by calling for lowering barriers to cheaper imported pharmaceuticals.
"Allowing consumers access to imported, safe and dependable drugs from overseas will bring more options to consumers," the statement says, adding that "Congress will need the courage to step away from the special interests and do what is right for America."
The proposals also call for reforming mental health programs and institutions, but provides few details about how to do this.
(Reporting by Eric Walsh; Editing by Sandra Maler)