Report Compares Health-Care Platforms of Presidential Candidates

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Obama has stated that universal coverage is an eventual goal. McCain has not made this statement, instead preferring to focus on expanded access to insurance.

McCain's plan would reduce the number of uninsured Americans by 1.3 million over the coming decade at a total cost of $1.3 billion. Obama's plan would reduce the ranks of the uninsured by 34 million at a cost of $1.63 billion. During the first year of implementation, McCain's proposed plan would dent the federal budget to the tune of $185 billion, while Obama's plan would require $86 billion.

The report concluded that "Senator Obama's plan shows greater potential for making care more affordable, accessible, efficient and higher quality, though it will likely fall short of covering everyone."

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McCain's plan is likely to increase insurance administration costs, the report stated, and would not likely lead to universal coverage.

"In 2009, we need a president and Congress who will work together and take action needed to transform the health system," Davis said. "We must realize that investing in the health-care system will pay dividends in terms of a healthy workforce and economic stability."

More information

Get more on the report from The Commonwealth Fund.

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