Since Harry Truman called for national health insurance in 1948, presidential candidates have tried with little success to engage the nation in a discussion of health policy. With the single exception of John Kennedy in 1960, candidates of both major parties have failed to raise health care to the "first tier" of campaign debate. As the U.S. prepares for the 1992 election, Democrats hope to break that cycle. While polls show greater interest among voters, indications are a serious national debate is not likely until 1996.

Health Policy↗

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America speaks. Was anyone listening?

Town meetings are a uniquely American political device intended to allow citizens to have a voice in the course of the local or even national policymaking process. On January 14, 1992, Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives conducted 140 such meetings to discuss health care reform. While the discussions ranged from the ridiculous to the sublime, Americans made it clear that they are fed up with a current system that they believe costs too much and provides too little. But a key question remains: Who, if anyone, was listening? House Democrats appear determined to avoid specifics and to pin President Bush with an "anti-health" label. The strategy is a risky one; a riled up populace could well turn against those who convinced them to be concerned in the first place.

Attitude to Health↗

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Stepping up to bat: states take the lead on health policy.

Long considered a training camp for Congress, state government has come into its own and now is leading the way on health reform. A transfer of some authority from Washington has helped to energize governors, legislators, and regulators. In an ironic sense, recession pressures have led to some innovative policymaking. Key leaders at the state level hope their efforts will help to break the national stalemate over health reform.

Health Policy↗

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George Bush: tell me where it hurts.

During his first three-and-one-half years in office President Bush has compiled some impressive achievements in the areas of disease prevention and protection for the disabled. But for much of his first term, Bush ignored the twin perils of health care inflation and a rising number of uninsured Americans. Late in his term, the President put forward a plan combining tax credits for the uninsured and a greater emphasis on managed care to control costs.

Abortion, Legal↗

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President Clinton: now what?

Bill Clinton was elected President on a consistent theme of economic revival and reform of the nation's health care system. As he prepares to take office, the President-elect is under extreme pressure to keep his promises on reform, women's health, and AIDS. But the new Administration faces challenges from Congress, the health care lobby, and a deficit-ridden budget.

Cost Control↗

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The equalizer.

Explore the source record for details and available documents.

Economics, Medical↗