Single-Payer Is Becoming Litmus Test For Democrats, But Reality Is Far More Complicated Than Rhetoric

California's gubernatorial race is acting as a microcosm of the larger push toward universal health care. But, experts say the issue is complicated. “Voters are thinking about the fundamental values associated with single-payer,” said Kelly Hall, an independent health consultant. “Almost zero voters have thought about the policy implications.” Those implications range from funding challenges to a vocal opposition to unanswered legal questions.

If wholesale opposition to President Trump is one litmus test for progressive Democrats, another — as the governor’s race in California is proving — is health care. All the leading Democratic contenders in the June 5 primary have pledged support for a single-payer system run by the state. The front-runner, Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, the former mayor of San Francisco, has made it the centerpiece of his campaign. “There’s no reason to wait around on universal health care and single-payer in California,” he has declared. (Cohen and Abelson, 5/25)

In other news —

A proposal to create government price controls in California for surgeries, hospital stays, doctor visits and other health care services died Friday when it failed to clear a key committee, but the author says he plans to bring it back next year. The measure was a longshot from the beginning, but it drew national attention from health care policy observers. Hospitals, doctors and other influential health care providers lobbied intensely against the bill, which they said would lead to longer waits for medical care. (Cooper, 5/25)

This is part of the Morning Briefing, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.

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