Health care bill could save billions

WWLP TV

Updated: Jul 31, 2012 7:39 PM

BOSTON, Mass. (WWLP) — Lawmakers say Massachusetts is set to save billions in health care costs, but it all hangs on whether they can get a bill to the governor's desk in less than 7 hours.

Lawmakers have until midnight to pass a health care payment reform bill that they say could save the state $200 billion dollars over the next 15 years.

The final bill was filed minutes to 8pm Monday night so that it could be passed by both the House and Senate on Tuesday. Republican Representative Dan Winslow griped on Twitter, "Wonder if I can read 300+ pages/night. Gonna try." Health Care Financing Committee Chairman Richard Moore said the bill will control health care costs by paying hospitals according the quality of care they give rather than how many patients they see.

“Clearly with the pressure to reduce costs, we'll start seeing some savings fairly soon. I would think within the next year and we provide in the bill ways for the health care system, for hospitals, doctors and others to move in that direction,” said Sen. Richard Moore.

Governor Deval Patrick first filed the health care overhaul bill early last year.

If the lawmakers are able to get it to his desk before by the end of the night, Patrick is likely to sign it.

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