Should NH institute a single payer healthcare system?

On November 8th, Colorado voters will weigh in on a ballot question that could make them the first state in the nation to institute a single-payer healthcare system. The program would provide all Colorado residents with healthcare without charging them premiums. It would be primarily funded by a 10% increase in the income tax (6.67% of which would be paid by employers).

Residents who prefer to remain on their current insurance plan may do so, but will still be subject to the additional taxes.

A similar effort in Vermont was ultimately abandoned. An effort to create a single payer system in New Hampshire in 2015 was quickly shot down in committee.

Supporters of a single-payer healthcare system argue that the system would ensure that all citizens have adequate health care coverage. They also argue that a single payer system simplifies administration and allows for control of the price of services, equipment and drugs. Citizens therefore pay less than what they are currently paying in premiums, deductible and out-of-pocket expenses.

Opponents counter that single-payer systems are extremely expensive, in part because tax revenues simply cannot keep pace with the rising cost of healthcare. Health care providers also expressed concern over how the plan would affect reimbursement rates and specialty care. Others argue that without the pressure to compete for patients, health care providers will have no incentive to lower costs or improve quality.

UPDATE: Read our Citizen Voices℠ report and find out where New Hampshire stands on this issue.