INSURANCE REFORM IN A VOLUNTARY SYSTEM - IMPLICATIONS FOR THE SICK, THE WELL, AND UNIVERSAL HEALTH-CARE

In the absence of universal coverage, carefully designed insurance ref orms can make health insurance in the individual and small-group marke ts more affordable for those who need it most-the sick-and more secure for all subscribers. in this position paper, the American College of Physicians calls for specific strong reforms at both the state and fed eral levels. Substantial reform of the insurance marketplace is a nece ssary step toward achieving universal coverage. It should reflect the view that providing quality health care is in the best interests of th e community and that health care financing should be a community respo nsibility.