Health Affairs

Posting date: March 23, 2005

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Health Affairs, 10.1377/hlthaff.w5.119
Copyright © 2005 by Project HOPE

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Change In Challenging Times: A Plan For Extending And Improving Health Coverage

Jeanne M. Lambrew ^1*, John D. Podesta ², Teresa L. Shaw ³

¹ Jeanne Lambrew is a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress and an associate professor in the George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services, in Washington, D.C.
² John Podesta is president and chief executive officer of the center. He was White House chief of staff during the Clinton Administration.
³ Terri Shaw is the center's associate director of domestic policy.

^*Corresponding author.

Abstract

Some speculate that Americans are neither politically capable of nor morally committed to solving the health system problems. We disagree. We propose a plan that insures all and improves the value and cost-effectiveness of health care by knitting together employer-sponsored insurance and Medicaid; promoting prevention, research, and information technology; and financing its investments through a dedicated value-added tax. By prioritizing practicality, fairness, and responsibility, the plan aims to avoid ideological battles and prevent fear of major change. By emphasizing the moral imperative for change, especially relative to other options on the policy agenda, it aims to create momentum for expanding and improving health coverage for all.

Key Words: Access To Care, Business Of Health, Consumer Issues, Ethical Issues, Health Reform, Insurance Coverage, Politics, Insurance Market

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