Massachusetts Reform May Serve As Model For National Efforts

President-elect Obama and Senator Max Baucus both agree that Massachusetts serves as a good example to follow when reforming the health care system. Senator Baucus recently released a white paper endorsing the incremental approach Massachusetts took in improving access to health care for its residents. Massachusetts has not achieved universal coverage, but came close by plugging holes in the already existing health coverage infrastructure. Obama's health reform proposal also mirrors several steps Massachusetts took, including expansion of the Medicaid program and subsidies for the middle class.