For some, it is all about reform of an ailing system. For others, it is about creating a new one. And if providing health care coverage to those who don’t already have it isn’t challenging enough, there’s the matter of controlling costs even if you already do. Mandatory universal coverage is gaining political currency, but there’s disagreement over whether it is the government, private sector or individual – or some combination of the three – that pays for it.
Believes that affordable health care can be made available without a mandated universal system and that government-run systems such as those in Canada and Europe would not succeed in the U.S. Opposes requiring all citizens purchase insurance. Supports expanding community health centers and S-CHIP programs, tax incentives for the poor and health savings accounts. Opposes Medicare’s prescription drug benefit. Would promote competition by allowing people to buy insurance across state lines.
Wants to provide affordable, comprehensive health care to every American, modernize the system, improve quality of treatment and promote prevention. Employers (excluding small businesses that do not meet a revenue threshold) not offering coverage would be required to contribute funds to the national plan. Employers will be partially reimbursed for catastrophic costs. Would expand Medicaid and S-CHIP to cover all children.
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Current DateTime: 04:20:33 23 Nov 2009 LinksList Documentid: 24373154