His campaign Web site argues that HMO reform, tort reform, and an overhaul of the Food and Drug Administration are also necessary to improve access to health care. But McCain has not outlined specific plans or proposals on health care, has not submitted a budget, and has not commented on the cost of his reform proposals. Specific ideas from Forbes Forbes has been more specific than either McCain or Bush about his proposals for healthcare reform, but his ideas are also some of the most controversial. Forbes has practiced what he preaches, setting up MSAs for his employees eight years ago. MSAs serve the same function as normal savings accounts, except the funds are used to pay for health care.
Companies stock the accounts of their employees, with employees using the money for routine visits.
Unused money is carried over, and when it is depleted, a catastrophic insurance backup kicks in. Forbes says MSAs would be both portable and affordable and wants to repeal Medicare provisions that restrict their use. He has also advocated a plan to give Medicare beneficiaries the right to choose their health plan and physician. If Washington lifted the restrictions on MSAs, that alone would be a huge leap forward. But judging by an Oct. 28 town hall meeting in New Hampshire attended by McCain, Forbes, Hatch, Bauer, and Keyes, the Republican nomination will not hinge on concerned healthcare reform.