The New York Times is reporting today on the unusual cooperation between House committees on health care — which could mean real progress toward reform.
Such agreements, while no guarantee of success, could help build momentum for a bill. A united front could make it harder for lobbyists to derail legislation. White House officials welcomed the prospect of cooperation by House leaders, saying it increased the chances of passing a bill to expand coverage this year, a top priority for Mr. Obama.
Many issues, including the question of how to pay for it, are unresolved. But the House chairmen said they had informally agreed to plow ahead on the assumptions that individuals would be required to carry insurance and that most employers would be required to help pay for it.
This would appear to be good news, though I am concerned that by taking single-payer off the table we are starting from a weak position, creating the likelihood that the reforms that end up being crafted will fail to accomplish what should be the ultimate goal: universal coverage at a reasonable price that includes incentives for preventative care.
Hank Kalet 