Business is far from unified in its lobbying efforts for health care reform.

Kerry Rose knows firsthand the risks farmers face when they gamble on working in one of the nation’s most dangerous occupations without health insurance.

An online survey of Missouri small businesses finds the cost of health care is a huge concern -- above taxes, energy, and other issues.

President Obama had a message on Monday for critics who think he has lost momentum in his bid to overhaul health care: "Don't bet against us."

For entrepreneurs trying to start or run a business, the obstacles are huge. But few loom as large as one: health care.

Although still publicly beating the drums for President Obama's health care overhaul, representatives of some of the biggest players are beginning to express concern behind the scenes that it won't do enough about the major problem: runaway medical costs

The latest news is available at
www.CoverMissouri.org

As health care reform discussions intensify and legislation is being prepared for debate, Cover Missouri has increased the number of bulletins over the past five weeks.

Cover Missouri Bulletins will now resume their regular biweekly schedule. Cover Missouri will continue to provide you with timely health coverage news at www.covermissouri.org.

Health care reform is a vital component for improving the stability of the U.S. economy. Health care spending has tripled over the past 20 years as more businesses and individuals struggle to afford health coverage. Costs show no sign of slowing without health care reform.

Businesses are a primary source of health insurance in the U.S., providing coverage for almost 60 percent of Americans. Most large businesses still provide coverage for their employees while small businesses struggle to afford the cost of coverage. An estimated 27 million uninsured individuals work for small businesses. Small firms say high insurance premiums are the main reason they do not provide coverage to their employees.

Despite the cost, health coverage has several benefits for businesses. Workers with insurance have fewer sick days and shorter periods of illness. Employers offering health coverage have lower turnover, which reduces hiring and training costs.

In order for businesses to remain competitive, changes in the health care system must occur. Key reforms impacting employers and their workforce currently being discussed at the federal level include:

• Containing health care costs;
• Ensuring access to preventive care; and
• Providing coverage for the 37 million uninsured Americans from working families.

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