This bill proposes the establishment of the Arizona HEALTH program within the Arizona health care cost containment system, which would provide comprehensive health benefit coverage to all residents who enroll. Key definitions are introduced, including terms such as "enrollee," "health care provider," and "participating provider." The program would not require enrollees to pay premiums or other charges, and it allows residents the option to purchase private health insurance if they choose not to enroll. The bill also outlines the composition and responsibilities of the Arizona HEALTH program board of trustees, which includes various appointed members and stipulates that board members must be enrollees of the program after its implementation.
Additionally, the bill mandates the development of a benefit coverage plan that encompasses a wide range of health care services and requires the board to conduct a cost analysis and develop a revenue proposal to fund the program. This proposal includes the implementation of a payroll tax with a progressive structure, exemptions for lower income levels, and specific employer-employee contribution requirements. The administration is tasked with adopting rules for program management and ensuring that participating providers are compensated adequately without contracting with health insurers or third-party administrators. The act is titled the "End of Privatization of Health Care Act."