Building a foundation for universal access

Specific strategies outlined by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association call for a restructuring of health care financing that builds on a competitive, employer-based health insurance system. Universal access can be achieved through better management of the cost of care and more affordable health care premiums. Restructuring of the financing system must restore its capacity to manage risk and establish accountability for managing cost. Business practices and public policies that have encouraged market fragmentation should be reformed and incentives to create affordable insurance options for all buyers be established.