Leaders of Georgia's health care industry announced their full support of the Patients First Act.

“Health care leaders agree that we need a Georgia-centric system that encourages innovation and enhances health outcomes for families," said Governor Kemp. "The Patients First Act is a step toward lower insurance premiums, greater accessibility, and better care - no matter your zip code."

"We wholeheartedly support S.B. 106 and the improvements this would make statewide to provide residents access to health care that is equitable and affordable. The passage of this bill would make it possible to move forward with a waiver that could improve Medicaid coverage for residents, increasing their access to health care services, while also allowing health care providers to recoup many of the losses felt since 2013. The passage of this bill would make it possible to move forward with a waiver that could support the transition from fee-for-service to a fee-for-value framework, thus improving health care outcomes for all Georgia residents."

- Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, FACHE, President and CEO of Navicent Health

"Waivers will permit Georgia to apply for and receive the flexibility and resources from the federal government that will allow the state to design health care solutions that meet its unique needs. Passing Senate Bill 106 would be a positive step toward improving our health care delivery system and increase access to care for those who need it most."

- John Haupert, President & CEO, Grady Health System

"On behalf of our nearly 170 hospital members, the Georgia Hospital Association (GHA) supports SB 106 and thanks Governor Kemp and Senator Blake Tillery (R-Vidalia) for their leadership in helping to ensure access to affordable health insurance for Georgia’s patients. GHA understands that an insured patient is a healthier patient, because that individual will seek the right care at the right time at the right place. Too often, uninsured and under-insured patients delay care until their illness or injury has progressed to the point that they have no choice other than to seek treatment in an emergency room. We commend Governor Kemp for his efforts to craft a solution to Georgia’s uninsured crisis."

- Earl Rogers, President and CEO, Georgia Hospital Association

"Hometown Health is glad to see an opportunity to bring a creative, innovative approach to health care in the Patients First Act. We look forward to working with Governor Kemp and state agencies to address reforms in health care delivery through the waiver process."

- Jimmy Lewis, CEO, Hometown Health