Dear Secretary Daschle,

I support health care reform that works for all of America including rural people, family farmers and small business owners and employees. Such reform should be:

• Universal – Because of the long-term health and societal consequences of being uninsured and underinsured, health care coverage should be available to everyone. That includes a choice of a private insurance plan, including keeping the insurance you have if you like it, or a public insurance plan that guarantees affordable coverage.
  
• Continuous – Gaps or interruptions in coverage lead to inadequate care and worse health outcomes. This is particularly important for rural people since rural residents often lack health insurance for longer periods.
  
• Affordable to individuals and families – The primary reason given by businesses, employers, and people for lacking health insurance benefits is cost; the affordability challenge is even greater for low- and moderate-income individuals and families.
  
• Affordable and sustainable – Health care must be cost-effective and efficient to the society as a whole and to individuals and families.
  
• Enhance health and well-being – Coverage should include those services that provide for long-term health.
  

I urge you to work for health care reform that meets these principles.