On May 10, 2008, the Journal and the Massachusetts Medical Society brought together 13 panelists for a seminar on U.S. health policy and universal health coverage. In a discussion moderated by Arthur R. Miller, J.D., of the New York University School of Law, the participants identified important challenges to the American health care system and debated possible solutions.

The group addressed dissatisfaction among physicians and its relationship to the current reimbursement system; approaches to payment reform; the growing need for investment in information technology; and strategies for reducing the disproportionately high costs of new drugs and end-of-life care in the United States. The participants then considered political, social, and economic obstacles to achieving universal access to care and speculated about the potential for change under a new president.

New comments from readers were posted through September 3, 2008.