As you may know the Democratic Party and President Obama are having trouble getting a consensus on a new Universal Health Care plan because of the costs and in some cases, the rules involved. Some are saying that it will fail because the Republicans refuse to 'yes' to anything, some 'republican like' Democrats are demanding less be done and the liberal Democrats are demanding too much be done.
Perhaps this idea has already been floated and I just haven't heard it; but if this is truly the case (no health care bill can be passed), why not just pass one that includes Universal Preventive/Emergency Care instead?
In other words, have policies available or paid for (for those too poor to pay) that will provide for preventive medicine/emergency care? The insurance would pay for routine checkups, yearly blood work, chemistry analysis, x-rays and bone scans. Sort of like the yearly breast exam.
It could pay for those appointments that you have for an infection like a virus or sinus and ear treatments. It should also cover (true and immediate) emergencies such as broken arms and legs, breathing problems, head/heart problems.
Perhaps the medicare drug program that was created for seniors could be extended to everyone (those that want to pay the premiums).
Exactly what would be considered preventive/emergency care coverage could be decided upon by a group of doctors. The insurance companies would then setup policies to fit those needs.
Surgeries, hospital stays and long term care would be the responsibility of the patient (it's that way now) -- at least until the nation decides to go further with the Universal Health Care plan.
This plan should be a 'lot' cheaper than a complete Universal Health coverage. And it would allow the president and the Democratic Party to accomplish at least part of what they promised.
Perhaps this idea could make everybody a bit happier and healthier?