While federal agencies watch over expenditures, what really is needed is someone to watch over the individual patient's welfare. Legislation, speeches, and analysis, usually in that order, have been used by the federal government to convey its views on medical care to the 50 states and to the American people. Oregon has decided to wait. In the near term, given the urgency of the need, it should build on the strengths of existing health care financing mechanisms. The vast majority of Americans are satisfied with their physicians and with the health care services they receive.
Most patients have the ability to freely choose their physician, hospital and system of care.
Technology is widely available and science remains free to conduct research in the best interests of the patient. The medical education system continues to produce highly trained, competent physicians. Medical professionals remain free to act as patient advocates rather than agents of the government or other interests. These strengths are the foundation on which the American Medical Association has based its proposal for reform. In some respects vouchers resemble credit cards, although they are more specialized.