A new study by the independent Congressional Budget Office (CBO) says a proposed universal health care plan "would break even during its first full year of operation and then create budget surpluses."
The plan is called the "Healthy Americans Act," and it is gaining support, including backing from Tennessee's Sen. Bob Corker. The plan is being led by Utah GOP Sen. Bob Bennett and Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon.
The plan would require everyone to choose a plan that meets their needs, but no plan could be sold that falls below basic requirements. Those requirements, according to the CBO, "would initially be based on the Blue Cross/Blue Shield standard plan offered to Federal workers in 2011 and then allowed to grow at the rate of growth of the economy." The poor would see their insurance funded by the government and if someone were to lose their job, coverage would continue. No one could be denied coverage because of pre-existing conditions.
While there are many details of the plan that pose questions in my mind, it is an incredibly good start. It's also unlikely that any plan will satisfy everyone, so it makes no sense to wait for the perfect solution.
The important thing is that the plan covers everyone, is affordable, and provides coverage to the poor and those who lose or move between jobs.
The CBO report is vital because it demonstrates that America can afford health care for everyone. Already we spend more than nearly any other country and get less for it.
Sen. Corker says this plan "serves up health care on a plate" for the next president, whoever he or she may be. Let's hope the winner takes advantage of the opportunity.
-- Jim Grinstead
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