Commonwealth Fund January 7, 2021
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President-elect Biden’s goal of advancing a federal public health insurance option faces an uphill battle, even in a Democratic Congress
President-elect Biden could use existing waiver authority to grant states the flexibility and funding they need to pursue public option programs
Having consistently placed a federal public option at the core of his campaign’s health care platform, President-elect Biden will seek to deliver on this promise after he takes office. The term “public option” holds different meanings for different audiences, but usually refers to a new form of health insurance coverage that presents an alternative to existing commercial plans and includes a stronger government role in oversight and administration. The goal is to expand access to quality, affordable coverage.
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