Health care reform is not an option. We must reduce costs, guarantee choice and ensure quality care for all. Smart change is a pressing, financial and moral imperative.

I support universal single-payer health care for all Americans. Pursuit of this goal, however, should not stand in the way of the progress that President Obama and Congress are making towards reforming the health care system. Even if we cannot yet attain a single-payer system, it is necessary that we:

• Reduce costs – Rising health care costs are crushing the budgets of governments, businesses, individuals and families and they must be brought under control.

• Guarantee Choice – Every American must have the freedom to choose their plan and doctor – including the choice of a public insurance option.

• Ensure Quality Care for All – All Americans must have quality and affordable health care

President Obama believes, and I agree, that these are necessary components of any health care reform. There should be honest debate. We should strive towards a bipartisan bill that brings many ideas to the table, but not at the cost of any one of these principles.

The greatest problem with the current health care industry is that insurance companies operate for purely financial ends, profiting on the backs of the American public and providing insufficient services. Many are left out of the system completely. Those who have some form of insurance are held hostage by a myriad of policies such as non-coverage of pre-existing conditions, disclaimers of what will be covered at any given time and unaffordable premiums and deductibles.

All Americans should be able to afford basic health care. Annual physicals must be included in all plans, prior to the application of a deductible. Preventative care must also be included. Too much money is wasted dealing with the consequences of poor living.

The current system is not sustainable and substantial change must be made now.