Although many advocates are pushing for national health care, it’s important to acknowledge that more Americans favor private health-insurance reforms over mandatory health insurance or national health care, according to a recent Gallup survey (see below).

Even in the midst of national economic challenges and skyrocketing health-care costs, Americans haven’t lost their preference for individual decision-making and responsibility, over mandates and government control.  The desire for private health insurance remains strong.

Thus, as we move forward with debates about expanding coverage, it’s important for policymakers to examine ways to enhance free-market options.  They should ask:

• Why is health insurance so expensive for so many people in the United States?
• Is there a healthy and vibrant market for private health insurance? 
• What can be done to foster competition, and therefore affordable coverage, in the health-insurance industry?

Let’s encourage policymakers to ask the right questions that lead to helpful solutions for improving access to affordable, private health-insurance plans—plans that ensure citizens’ freedom to maintain private contracts with the providers and services of their choice.