'One-stop shopping' at heart of health debate

0 Comments | USA TODAY, June, 2009 | by Richard Wolf

WASHINGTON -- An overhaul of the nation's health care system could help do away with one of the most aggravating and expensive experiences for millions of individuals and small businesses: shopping for insurance on the open market.

A central element of all the proposals pending in Congress is the creation of a health insurance "exchange" -- a way to offer a range of plans. Its rules could guarantee that all applicants can get insurance. Its size could produce better prices than consumers can get on their own.

Options include one national exchange or many on a state or regional basis. An exchange could be operated by the government or an independent agency. It could administer federal subsidies to low-income people. It could collect fees required from employers who...