Gov. Patrick readies for second term

Gov. Patrick readies for second term
By Associated Press  |   Thursday, January 6, 2011  |  http://www.bostonherald.com  |  Local Politics

Governor Deval Patrick looks through the crowd at the Old South Church before the all faith religious service prior to his inauguration.
Photo by Mark Garfinkel

BOSTON — Gov. Deval Patrick is planning to file legislation in the next few weeks that he says will help Massachusetts tackle soaring health care costs by simplifying and overhauling the way doctors, hospitals and others are paid.

Patrick made the pledge during an inaugural speech delivered after he took his oath of office for a second term Thursday at a ceremony in the Massachusetts House chambers.

Patrick said he’s also directing the state’s main health care programs, including MassHealth and the Health Care Connector, to launch pilot programs aimed at bringing down costs.

The Democratic governor also listed several other goals for his four-year term.

Patrick said he wants to reduce the cost of doing business in Massachusetts, close a stubborn achievement gap in schools and reduce youth violence.

Online:

Patrick-Murray Inaugural Committee: http://www.project351.com

Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/news/politics/view.bg?articleid=1307799