President Obama today hosted a White House summit on health care reform that brought together experts from government, business, unions, and the insurance and pharmaceutical industries.

The President expressed the urgency of tackling the stubborn issue, which Democrats have broached unsuccessfully in the past. Today's climate of 48 million uninsured, health care costs topping $2.5 trillion, and Democratic control of the executive and legislative branches, may make this an opportune time to get something done.

The President stressed the negative economic impact of the nation's health care system and the need for its complete overhaul.
"Health care reform is no longer just a moral imperative, it is a fiscal imperative," the President told about 120 attendees. "If we want to create jobs and rebuild our economy, then we must address the crushing cost of health care."

He said that this time is truly different from failed efforts of the past that were undone by industry lobbying. He characterized the call for health care reform today as "coming from the bottom up...from doctors, nurses and patients; unions and businesses; hospitals, health care providers and community groups."

The President said that status quo was not an option but that he is willing to listen to others' views and suggestions. "No proposal for reform will be perfect," he said. He called for "comprehensive health care reform" by the end of the year including improved coverage, services and cost controls.

Some view the timing as bad for a comprehensive government-funded national health program given the current recession, bailouts, and budget deficit. Others, like the President, view the problem as more urgent than ever. Health care reform was a cornerstone of Obama's election campaign; a growing number of Americans share his views on the issue, according to recent polls.

Senator Edward Kennedy, long an advocate of universal health care and who is battling brain cancer, appeared at the forum to a standing ovation.

The White House is planning regional meetings around the country to gain input and support for reforming the nation's fractured health system.

The White House site on the topic is:
http://www.healthreform.gov/

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