Cascade Care(opens in new tab) will establish a standard, state-sponsored plan on the Exchange that caps out-of-pocket expenses for patients and caps reimbursement rates for providers. Montana implemented a similar public plan in 2016(opens in new tab), capping hospital and reimbursement rates to drive down costs. Prior to offering the public option, the state spent over $200 million in health care. By the following year, the plan saved a total of $17 million. After two years of instituting cost containment measures, the state is touting the program as a success with an annual cost saving of $15.6 million without having to reduce patient benefits or quality of care.
By implementing Cascade Care, we utilize existing infrastructure to leverage federal subsidies and cap costs to ensure all residents have access to quality medical care without the worry of an excessive price tag.