Daschle Set To Kick Off Obama Administration’s Health Reform Efforts
On Friday, former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle (D-S.D.) plans to deliver a speech in Denver to begin an effort by the administration of President-elect Barack Obama to pass comprehensive health care reform legislation, the Wall Street Journal reports.
Daschle is the likely nominee for HHS secretary.
The Journal reports that "Daschle will emphasize the importance of moving forward even amid the economic crisis, noting that rising health care costs put more pressure on businesses and must be addressed."
According to prepared remarks, Daschle is expected to say, "There is no question that the economic health of this country is directly related to our ability to reform our health care system." He will add that Obama "made health care reform one of his top priorities of his campaign" and that "his commitment to changing the health care system remains strong and focused."
In addition, Daschle will discuss the need to expand health insurance to more U.S. residents, reduce health care costs and improve health care quality. Daschle will not outline a timetable for action by the Obama administration on health care reform, the Journal reports.
Daschle, who had cited the need for feedback from individuals, health insurers and policy experts on health care reform, recommends that individuals host holiday house parties to discuss the issue (Meckler, Wall Street Journal, 12/5). This is part of the California Healthline Daily Edition, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.