President Barack Obama unveiled his plans to overhaul the health care system during a visit to Green Bay. The president held a town hall meeting at Southwest High School over the noon hour, during which he said the federal government can learn a lesson from Green Bay.
“There are a lot of places where we spend less on health care, but actually have higher quality than places where we spend more, and it turns out Green Bay is a good example. Right here in Green Bay, you get more quality out of health care dollar, than many other communities across this country” the president said.
Obama wants to create a Health Insurance Exchange that would require private companies to offer affordable, basic health insurance plans, and cover preexisting conditions. He said the federal government would create a public health care plan, to provide competition.
“I know that there are millions of Americans who are happy, who are content with their health care coverage. They like their plan and they value their relationship with their doctor.” The president drew applause when he vowed that those who like their health care plan will be able to keep it.
Obama said while families will see some relief early on, it may take four or five years to perfect the health care system. He said the U.S. has to do something because the status quo is unsustainable.
AUDIO: President Barack Obama (:40 MP3)
