May 2007

NFIB releases small business healthcare survey

Cost was identified as the single most important problem facing the health system today, according to small business owners in the National Federation of Independent Business’ (NFIB) Small Business Health-Care Survey,

“A difference in top priorities appears between Congress and America’s small-business owners,” said William Dennis, senior research fellow of the NFIB Research Foundation. “One is primarily interested in coverage and the other cost. If lawmakers can help reduce costs, small businesses can help increase coverage in the long-run.”

The new survey, which polled NFIB members, is the latest healthcare research measuring the awareness, attitudes and beliefs of the small business community. Small business owners who responded to the survey indicated they believe the price mechanism could work to reduce healthcare costs. Seventy percent of NFIB members believe that making consumers more aware of healthcare and health insurance costs will encourage them to become better healthcare consumers.

Additionally, small business owners indicated they are wary of modifying the tax structure significantly, even if it may work to their benefit. However, respondents do favor equalizing the tax structure for those obtaining health insurance.

In addition, 79 percent of NFIB members believe the overall quality of healthcare available to most Americans to be “excellent” or “pretty good”; 95 percent believe everyone who benefits from financial assistance for healthcare should be required to pay some portion of their healthcare or insurance; 57 percent indicate a preference for individuals above a reasonable income level to be required to have health insurance or be able to prove financial responsibility; and 71 percent think all healthcare providers who expect reimbursement from insurers should be required to have computerized records.

To view complete survey results, visit www.nfib.com/research.

Industry News from:
Chiropractic News from: