title: Why public programs matter--and will continue to matter--even after health reform.
abstract: Regardless of how health reform proceeds, we will continue to need public insurance programs to care for the poor, cover health problems not addressed by private insurance, and support the nation's health care infrastructure. This article examines that continuing role.
authors.affiliation: Public Policy and External Affairs, WellPoint, Inc., USA.
authors.forename: Elizabeth J
authors.initials: EJ
authors.lastname: Fowler
authors.forename: Timothy Stoltzfus
authors.initials: TS
authors.lastname: Jost
mesh_terms: D018166:Health Care Reform / Q000191:economics* / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D006801:Humans; D011632:Public Assistance / Q000191:economics* / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000639:trends; D011639:Public Opinion; D014481:United States