CEO Nick Veil criticizes healthcare costs in North Country during legislative briefing

In a recent meeting of the New Hampshire Senate Health and Human Services Committee, significant concerns were raised regarding the state of healthcare accessibility and affordability, particularly in rural areas. Nick Veil, CEO of Bedford Ambulatory Surgical Center and former commissioner of health and human services, emphasized the urgent need for reform in the healthcare system, arguing that current regulations are driving up costs and limiting competition.

Veil pointed out that the existing Certificate of Need (CON) process, which regulates healthcare facility expansions and services, has inadvertently increased healthcare costs rather than controlling them. He highlighted the struggles faced by federally qualified rural health centers, which are essential for providing care in underserved areas, and criticized the lack of competition that leads to exorbitant prices for basic services. For instance, he noted that patients in rural New Hampshire often pay significantly more for services like physical therapy and lab tests compared to their urban counterparts.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of high healthcare costs, with Veil stating that healthcare-related expenses are a leading cause of bankruptcy. He argued that many individuals delay seeking care due to high deductibles and out-of-pocket costs, which ultimately exacerbates health issues and increases long-term costs for the state.

Veil advocated for a shift towards public-private partnerships to foster innovation and improve access to care. He expressed frustration with the current system that he believes protects established healthcare franchises at the expense of patient care. He called for a reevaluation of the CON process to encourage entrepreneurial solutions that could lower costs and improve service delivery.

The meeting underscored the pressing need for healthcare reform in New Hampshire, particularly in rural areas where residents face significant barriers to accessing affordable care. As the committee continues to deliberate on potential legislative changes, the discussions highlighted the importance of prioritizing patient needs and fostering a competitive healthcare environment to drive down costs and improve access.