Dear Friend,

Over the past several years, I have heard countless stories from the people of Illinois regarding our dysfunctional health care system. The costs are too high, the coverage is too uncertain, and the quality of care is too uneven. Email me with your questions, comments and stories at: health_care@durbin.senate.gov

Thousands of Illinoisans have described the struggles they face as they try to keep or find affordable health coverage. Thousands of others have shared their fear that they might lose what is already working for them. And many others have made valuable suggestions for improvements in our health care system.

In the five sections below, I explain why I think we need to reform our health care and how this should be done, as well as dispelling some myths about the health care reform:

1. Reform is Needed
2. Basic Principles of Reform
3. Myths and False Claims
4. Where We Are and Next Steps
5. Additional Resources

Please feel free to share your thoughts about health reform, using the link at the top of this page.

Dick Durbin
United States Senator