Mexico Governor Announces Universal Health Insurance Coverage Plan

Presidential candidate New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson (D) on Thursday announced a health care proposal that aims to increase the number of insured state residents, the Santa Fe New Mexican reports. Under the proposal, the state would phase in a requirement that people obtain private health coverage, Health Insurance enroll in a state-subsidized program or provide documentation showing they have sufficient financial resources to afford health care expenses out of pocket. Some residents, primarily those who are able to afford coverage, would be required to start showing proof of coverage beginning in 2010, such as when they renew a driver's license.

In addition, the proposal would require employers with six or more workers to pay into a state-run fund, with the payments offset by the amount that an employer contributes to coverage for its employees.

The proposal would create the New Mexico Health Care Coverage Authority, which would administer most of the health care mandates and oversee decisions on benefits and eligibility. Richardson's proposal also would increase the use of electronic claims and health records to improve quality of care, control costs and reduce errors.