Guest: Nancy H. Nielsen, MD, PhD

The first of two programs consisting of excerpts of a panel discussion examining the issues surrounding healthcare coverage for millions of uninsured Americans. The panel was presented by U.S. News and World Report's National Issues Briefing, in association with the American Medical Association.

Panelists include Senator Max Baucus (D-MT), Senate Finance Committee Chairman; Mary R. Grealy, president of the Healthcare Leadership Council; and Paul H. Keckley, PhD, executive director of the Deloitte Center for Health Solutions. Brian Kelly, editor, U.S. News and World Report, moderates. The panel was introduced by Nancy H. Nielsen, MD, PhD, president of the American Medical Association.

Given latest U.S. Census profiles of uninsured Americans, and the obstacles to retaining coverage, including evolving private sector and employee work patterns and gaps in existing health care plans, panelists debate possible solutions -- from group coverage to state and federal benefits plans -- as well as current and emerging solutions from within the Administration and Congress, the presidential candidates, and other experts. The panel was recorded on September 23, 2008, at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.