Health Care Regs Under Scrutiny in W.Va.

At least some legislators are weighing a push against the certificate of need system, West Virginia's policy "that requires doctors, hospitals and other health care providers to receive the state's permission before buying equipment or expanding services," The Associated Press reports.

They include Sen. Evan Jenkins led, D-Cabell and executive director of the West Virginia Medical Association.

"Jenkins said he's compiled a thick stack of studies that question whether requiring providers to certify need increases access, ensures quality and controls costs -- the top goals of such policies," AP reports.

The system's defenders include Health Care Authority Chairwoman Sonia Chambers, whose agency administers it.

"It serves a vital role in West Virginia. I think it continues to hold a vital role,'' AP quoted Chambers telling lawmakers. "I don't think now is the time to take away one of tools we use to stem the tide of rising costs.''