It’s the day before Super Health Care Tuesday, where 24 states hold a primary or caucus. After the votes and delegates are counted, the presidential nominees for the Republicans and Democrats might emerge.
There’s a lot at stake for health care, because the reform plans of the candidates do have differences.
Let’s take a quick look at the health care reform proposals of the four current front-running candidates:
Republicans — John McCain and Mitt Romney
Arizona Senator John McCain is trying to solidify his current front-runner status and secure the Republican nomination with big wins tomorrow. His health care plan focuses heavily on controlling health care costs, rather than tackling the growing number of uninsured Americans. The highlights of Senator McCain’s plan include foreign prescription drug imports and more walk-in retail health clinics.
Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney doesn’t believe there is only one possible national health care reform. Instead, Governor Romney would allow states to decide themselves which reform was best for their state — also known as a “federalist ” model.
Democrats — Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama
New York Senator Hillary Clinton is in a very tight race with Illinois Senator Barack Obama for the Democratic nomination. Senator Clinton’s health care plan would mandate that all Americans obtain coverage. She argues that only a mandate will provide universal health care. She has not specified how she would enforce a mandate, reported the New York Times.
Senator Barack Obama only requires children obtain health insurance. He believes a mandate for everyone is not necessary. If coverage is affordable, Senator Obama argues, everyone will purchase it.
And as we’ve said before, the next health care reform is your choice. For many, tomorrow is the big day to choose your health care reform.