L. Dean Forman

In the following viewpoint, L. Dean Forman contends that a universal health care program would not work at the state or national level. He argues that it is unrealistic to expect any health care system to provide comprehensive coverage for all Americans. Further, universal health care is expensive—much more expensive than managed care critics will admit. Forman insists that the best solution for U.S. health care problems will come from the combined efforts of government, employers, providers, and insurers. L. Dean Forman is president of the benefits brokerage firm Genovese, Forman, and Burford Financial and Insurance in Sacramento, California.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. According to Forman, what is the biggest promise made by a universal health care program?
2. What is...