By Bruce G. Bodaken, chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Blue Shield of California

Health Affairs May/June 2008

Ultimately, if the new president puts forward a universal coverage proposal, his or her ability to attract health plan support—or at least to mute opposition and keep Harry and Louise out of the debate—will come down to the president's approaching health plans with the following criteria in mind.

Respect the industry's economics. Health plans will be willing to support additional regulations on our business, but only if they maintain our economic viability. Preserving the delicate balance that allows plans to offer affordable coverage for all while making it truly accessible to all is a difficult task. But it is also a necessary one if we are to reform health care on the private-sector model that most Americans prefer.

• Understand the competitive dynamic.
• Think through the transition.
• Rely on our expertise.
• Demand shared responsibility.
• Stop demonizing health plans.

I know as well as anyone that our industry is not popular, but attacking us will not solve the problem or help achieve consensus for reform.

Read full article: http://content.healthaffairs.org/cgi/content/full/27/3/667