We are not suggesting that today's public education is perfect it isn't. But there is much to be learned from the eligibility and financing structure involved.

All of us contribute through our taxes to finance primary and secondary education; and all children - regardless of their economic circumstances are eligible to attend the first through the twelve grades in a public school. No one is left out; everyone pays and everyone benefits. We are suggesting this same basic structure for a new health care system. Public money should be used to finance a "core benefit" of essential health services that is accessible to the entire population - to all of us, not just to some of us.