To my mind, there are 3 broad general health reform plans floating around.
--Single payer like the Canadian system and supported by the far left.
--High deductible, less expensive insurance most likely with HSAs, which is currently the darling of the conservatives and is also often called Consumer Direct Healthcare.
--An attempt to get everyone covered under the current private insurance system but probably also with insurance reforms such as community ratings for all premiums and no prior condition exclusions. This option would have subsidies for the poor and possibly be mandated that everyone get in!
This third idea above is what is getting the most play with Massachusetts and California, as well as the 3 (now 2) Democractic candidates. Of course the Repubs want the Consumer Directed healthcare idea and the far left still wants single payer! Well this third track has been dealt a serious blow this week in CA. See below!
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