Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: FRIDAY, April 8, 1994 TAG: 9404080213
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV-1 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: By ROBERT FREIS STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: RADFORD LENGTH: Medium
Although those who spoke in favor of President Clinton's proposed health-care package have some misgivings, "We fully support the basics," said Archie Cromer Jr., a Radford Community Hospital trustee.
Cromer, chairman of the board of directors for Carilion Health System, and others spoke under the banner of the Health Care Reform Project, a national coalition that is staging a multi-million dollar campaign to defend Clinton's plan.
The coalition is wooing Boucher because the Abingdon Democrat stands to be a key player as the health-care plan winds through the congressional labyrinth.
Boucher is a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, the health-care bill's final stop before it arrives on the House floor for debate.
Boucher hasn't announced how he'll vote on the president's proposal.
The reformers held a news conference to get Boucher's attention and to counteract a national advertising campaign by the insurance industry that questions the Clinton plan.
Cromer accused insurance carriers of cynicism and distortion by twisting the public's arm against comprehensive health-care reform.
He also said the public should listen to doctors and nurses who support health-care reform rather than insurance companies that oppose change.
"Who is more creditable when it comes to giving advice?" he asked.
Insurance companies have attacked Clinton's plan - which would provide health care to all Americans through regional alliances of doctors, hospitals and other health-care professionals - for reducing consumer choice while feeding big goverment.
All who spoke echoed Terri Wright of Radford Community Hospital, who said, "We have a dysfunctional health care system today."
The coalition has prescribed a system that assures universal and affordable health coverage, gives patients choices and doesn't cost too much.
Without such a plan, the present system of shifting health-care costs from people who can't pay to consumers, health-care providers and institutions such as hospitals "will continue to plague us," Cromer said.
The coalition plans to send Boucher a letter that outlines its concerns and solicits his support.
by CNB