Prominent California physicians, hospitals, healthcare workers and insurers have formed an alliance to work toward comprehensive healthcare reform this year. Comprised of the California Medical Association, Service Employees International Union, Blue Shield of California, Kaiser Permanente, Catholic Healthcare West and Health Net, the coalition joined together to support three principles critical to achieving reform: universal coverage, shared responsibility and stable, long-term funding.

"Doctors and patients throughout the state are increasingly concerned about the condition of our healthcare system. It has been neglected far too long," says Anmol Mahal, MD, CMA president. "This coalition, representing very different interests coming together, is a sign of the depth and degree of support for reform. Time is a very precious resource in correcting ailments and we must recognize that California's need for a healthcare remedy is long overdue."

Coalition members plan to work with Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, the Legislature and each other to find the common ground that will make comprehensive reform possible this year. The CEOs of the three health plans involved in the coalition--George Halvorson of Kaiser Permanente, Jay Gellert of Health Net and Bruce Bodaken of Blue Shield--have pledged their support.

The group will work together on three fronts: policy, lobbying and communications. Jointly and individually, coalition members will undertake a public awareness campaign as well as paid media efforts. Coalition members are also actively seeking to expand their group to include businesses, unions and organizations outside the healthcare industry.

For news and ongoing updates about healthcare reform, visit the CMA Web site at www.cmanet.org/news/reform.asp.