Healthcare Reform

1. A national health care system which guarantees all people access to health care should be established. Such a system should strive for consistency of coverage throughout the United States.

2. The financing of universal health care should be shared by all citizens avoiding disproportionate burdens on any individual or sector within society.

3. People with pre-existing or chronic illness should be included.

4. The plan should include both programs for preventing illness and programs that provide continuity in the long term care of individuals with chronic health or disabling conditions.

5. Individuals should have access to and coverage for all necessary diagnostic procedures and therapeutic interactions, regardless of point of service.

6. The plan should include mechanisms that control over-utilization of services.

7. Funding of the plan should allow realistic provider reimbursement that reflects the cost of providing services.

8. Individuals should have the right to choose their own health care provider. Physicians should have the right to exercise autonomy in treating patients.

9. Administrative procedures should be streamlined in order to maximize resources for the health care of individuals.

10. Informed consumers should be involved in all aspects of their own health care and in the formulation of national health care policy.