The race to universal health coverage

Health is on center stage at the state level. In virtually every state, legislation has been enacted or is pending. The momentum being generated will create multi-dimensional health reforms. Regardless of loyalties to the traditional law-making process, initiatives are likely to spread throughout the nation when society or special interests reach the point that relief or protection becomes more important than process and political considerations. States may compete for federal funds, Medicare contracts and special grants to sustain their health plan. Whatever the case, it is incumbent upon hospitals to unite, form the strongest possible coalition and exert the leadership to achieve enactment of a health plan that meets the needs of their residents. Only through listening to our publics and exercising the best of our intellect and ingenuity can we make progress with improvement.