SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 56
(By Senators Prezioso, Plymale, Sprouse, Bowman, Unger, McCabe,
Minard, Ross, Mitchell, Hunter, Rowe and Burnette)
Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance develop a
strategic approach to addressing the fragility of the state's
health care system while maintaining access to health care
service.
Whereas, The health care system in many areas is characterized
by physician shortages, struggling small hospitals and primary care
centers with aging equipment and a lack of capital for health care
investments; and
Whereas, West Virginia has the oldest median age in the nation
and as the population continues to age, the prevalence of chronic
disease and the demand for health care services increases; and
Whereas, West Virginia needs to ensure the financial viability
of its health care system as a vital component of local economic
stability; and
Whereas, West Virginia must reform its health care delivery
system in a diligent and strategic manner that maintains access to
services and controls costs; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance develop a strategic approach to addressing health care access and delivery
and provide measurable outcomes which support ongoing refinement of
a comprehensive health care strategy; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and
Finance should undertake this effort through the implementation of
initiatives such as improved access to care; cost reduction through
elimination of duplicate or unnecessary services; improved
operational efficiencies; and enhanced quality of care; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and
Finance should explore the development of financial incentives to
encourage providers to form viable links to improve access to
health care services and increase the cost effectiveness of health
care services delivery. Incentives to be considered should include
rate enhancements for providers that participate in service
delivery networks; loan guarantees, seed capital and other capital
financing incentives; and regional infrastructure grants; and, be
it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and
Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2002, on
its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts
of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this
study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be
paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on
Government and Finance.