Rising costs for services and soaring insurance premiums have left millions of Americans uninsured, under insured, or struggling with medical debt. Supporters of healthcare reform believe the United States should join other industrialized nations that guarantee universal insurance coverage to citizens. Though healthcare is usually a benefit provided through one's employer, the recent economic crisis and subsequent layoffs and unemployment have many proposing blanket healthcare coverage for all. People strongly disagree, however, about the best way to provide access while controlling costs and promoting high-quality services. Some say that free-market solutions are the answer, while others favor a larger role for government, including a single-payer national insurance program. ""Universal Healthcare"" explores the arguments on both sides of this critical issue that affects the health of every U.S. citizen.

Series edited by: Alan Marzilli