Biden likely to achieve some health reform goals

Significance

A congressional battle looms over Biden’s healthcare reform plans: elements are opposed by Republicans and progressive Democrats. Biden proposes to offer federally provided health insurance to all US citizens.

Impacts

• Biden will use subsequent COVID-19 aid packages to advance his healthcare agenda, including funding community health centres.
• Biden will likely push to allow more medicine purchases from abroad, creating an opportunity for European and Asian pharma firms.
• Healthcare tax credits would make private healthcare more attractive and affordable for consumers.
• A public health insurance option would reduce the insurance risks facing private health insurers.
• The pharma industry will expend vast sums bankrolling politicians and lobbyists to fight Biden’s healthcare plans.