Obama healthcare plan moves a step closer

BBC reports that after a long, often acrimonious debate Senators voted 60 to 40 along party lines to end debate on the health reform bill at 0100 (0600 GMT) on Monday.Four further votes are scheduled this week on the issue before the final Senate vote on Christmas Eve.

Under the Senate bill, most Americans would have to have health insurance. This marks a significant breakthrough to help ensure that Americans can receive the health treatment they need - regardless of whether they are rich or poor. Historically the US health system has been one of the most expensive in the world.  The proliferation of private providers funded by private insurance companies has led to significant waste and duplication.  At the same time many low income Americans have been unable to pay the premiums which are now required to fund this private healthcare monster.