COVERITLIVE.COM

11:01

SenateDemocrats -

Good morning everyone, we'll be getting started in just a few moments.

11:05

Senator Karen Keiser - Good morning. My laptop seems unable to open this window, so I am using my assistant's computer. Sorry for the delay.
Welcome and thanks for joining me for this online chat about health care reform.
I want to start by giving you a brief update on health reform activities and issues. We are working with our Congressional delegation, the White House, other state legislators and advocates to achieve real health care reform before the end of this year.
Each week, I participate in a conference call with White House officials and state legislators from other states to discuss what role the states can play to achieve real reform. Other states participating include Iowa, Minn., Ma., New Mexico, Penn. and Wisconsin.
I have been highlighting some of our state's progressive reforms and programs, including the passage of my administrative simplification bill last session that will cut the waste and duplication in health care administration. We have much work ahead.

So, what I'd like to do over the next hour is hear from you. Tell me what your concerns and questions are, and let's get started.

11:06

[Comment From Ken Iverson]
Is the Republican opposition to Obama's health care reform ideas an attempt to hamstring him for the next 3.5 years? Is this a fight for power by the Republicans and their ilk with Health Care the battleground?

11:07

Senator Karen Keiser - I imagine many political pundits will make this health care issue a watershed event for the Obama administration. Most everyone seems to agree that the bill must be signed this year, when there is a window open to achieve real change before the next election cycle starts in earnest.

11:10

Senator Karen Keiser - Is anyone on-line? We seem to be having some technical difficulties.

11:10

[Comment From Robert Deppe]
Lets get down to the real issues, how will this be paid for?

11:11

[Comment From Erik Smith]
I'm online -- watching as a reporter.

11:11

[Comment From Roberta Riley]
I'm online, watching as a concerned citizen

11:12

Senator Karen Keiser -

We're already paying for it. We currently spend about twice as much per person for health care in our country than any other industrialized country. If we eliminate the waste and duplication that's already in the system, we'll get a lot of the problem fixed. Congress will make the final decisions on what other elements might be used.

11:13

[Comment From Marian Sofferin]
What are the viable?realistic options for health care reform?

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