What three areas do you believe deserve priority from the insurance commissioner?
Above all, the top priority of the commissioner’s office should be fairness. It is imperative that consumers receive quality treatment from the department’s staff, regardless of what company they are dealing with. The office also has a responsibility to encourage competition in the marketplace. This is the single most important factor in lowering premiums and increasing the quality of service. Finally, the commissioner’s office needs to lead on the issue of health care.
What issues do you anticipate will arise from consumers?
I think consumers are most concerned with being treated fairly by their company. I will ensure that both the industry and consumers receive fair treatment. All Kansans are also concerned about the health-care crisis. We have had many photo opportunities and very little action regarding this crisis. Kansans deserve a commissioner who will offer sensible strategies to attack this crisis.
What do you believe are the primary responsibilities of the insurance commissioner?
The primary responsibilities of the insurance commissioner are to ensure that consumers and companies are treated fairly by the office, run an efficient and ethical office, and provide information to consumers regarding insurance options.
What will you do to encourage more health-insurance companies to write health insurance in Kansas?
The best way to increase health-insurance options is to foster an environment that is friendly to new business. An increase in reputable companies can only benefit consumers. It is also vital that the commissioner’s office promote expansion of health savings accounts. An expansion of HSA options would give consumers increased control over their health-care dollars. HSAs increase flexibility and responsibility, and are a first step toward a less-dependent health-care model.
Why should voters elect you instead of your opponents?
I am the only candidate who has no ties to the Topeka establishment. I am coming from a consumer’s perspective. I see increased government bureaucracy as the primary problem that is driving the health-care crisis. I will lead the fight against unnecessary, cumbersome regulations that hamstring small businesses and prevent them from offering health-care coverage to their employees. We will not see progress on health care coverage until we help small business.