Oklahoma City, OK – A provider fee on hospitals and other medical providers has been recommended as a way to greatly reduce the number of uninsured Oklahomans.
The state Health Care Tax Force heard recommendations from various advisory committees yesterday on reducing the state's uninsured population of more than 600,000. Oklahoma ranks 47th among the 50 states in the number of residents who do not have health care insurance.
Among other things, committees recommended a provider fee to raise money for expanding a state program that subsidizes small businesses wanting to offer health insurance for their employees. Expanding the number of Oklahomans eligible for Medicaid coverage also was recommended.
The task force will study the recommendations for possible legislation next year. Co-chairmen of the task force are Reps. Kris Steele of Shawnee and Doug Cox of Grove.