White House Health Forum Convenes Today

Forum will give the floor to ranging viewpoints

By the Associated Press

Posted Mar 5, 2009 8:17 AM CST

(AP) – President Barack Obama has invited to the White House more than 120 people with wide-ranging views on how to fix the US health-care system, one that still leaves millions uninsured despite being the world's costliest. The group of doctors, patients, business owners, and insurers is to gather for a forum today in hopes of building support for big changes in health care.

The difference this time, Obama argues, is that costs have become unsustainable, particularly in a sinking economy. The US spends $2.4 trillion a year on health care, yet an estimated 48 million Americans lack coverage. "This is a different day," said one invitee who opposed President Clinton's plan. "I think everyone wants to see this work. There is a tremendous feeling that it's time."

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President Barack Obama will open the doors of the White House today to people with a wide range of views on how to fix the world's costliest health care system. (AP Photo)

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell sent a letter to Obama saying his party is ready to work on health care, but warned against a state-run system and runaway spending. (AP Photo)

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This is a different day. I think among most of the stakeholders, everyone wants to see this work. There is a tremendous feeling that it's time. - Chip Kahn, hospital lobbyist

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White House Health Forum Convenes Today