October 6 – Most Americans agree that changes to our health care system are needed, but there is widespread disagreement about the best way to expand health care coverage. The real goal of any health care reform should be to significantly lower the cost of health care for all Americans so that those who have it can keep it and those who don't, can afford it.

Building upon the current employer-based health insurance market would be a better approach than a government takeover of health care. Some ways to help bring greater choice and affordability are allowing individuals and families to purchase insurance across state lines, reforming the medical malpractice system to reduce junk lawsuits, digitizing medical records and promoting preventive care.

Unfortunately, the Congressional Budget Office reports that the Democrats’ health care plan would increase government spending, add to the national debt and even raise seniors’ Medicare prescription drug premiums. In addition, as many as 114 million Americans could lose their current health insurance under their plan, according to a recent non-partisan analysis.

Now that the American people and Members of Congress have had a chance to review the details of the Democrat health care proposal, significant changes are needed before it is called for a vote. For Congress to enact real health care reform that benefits all Americans, we must put aside the Democrat legislation and draft a new bill in a truly bipartisan effort while maintaining access to health insurance through group and employer plans.