since someone else activated this thread... I just skimmed an article in the Nation (which I have no problem calling liberal... unlike Kerry) about how National Heath care (single-payer) systems are MUCH better for businesses, because it grossly lowers their per-employee cost.

But US busnessess are against it on reflex because it "smacks of socialism"

THe problem with the current system is that it's completley ineffecient. There are 1000's of companies (HMOs, insurance co's), the government (medicare/cal), etc. Not to mention docs, hospitals, and big pharma all trying to squeeze maximum profits out of services that are needed by all. If a drug company has only 1 payer to negiotiate price with, they are somewhat in a less powerful position.

I will say this - and I am in the industry - the phama industry is due for a BIG correction. There is no way the current system can continue - and what I think is going to happen is that the FDA is going to stop mandating "efficacy" for new drugs - they will focus primarily on safety. This wilil be coupled with some legistlation to keep the price of patent medicine down.