“Politics these days seems more like medieval warfare than a civilized process designed to improve the quality of life. So when a Republican governor and a Democratic legislature put down their lances and shields and came together on a plan to provide health coverage for virtually all Massachusetts residents, it justifiably made headlines across the country. But what does it mean for us in California? Is it an example of what’s possible here, or a feat unique to a wealthy New England commonwealth with a population of just 6.4 million? As much of the media coverage has noted, relatively few people in Massachusetts are uninsured — just 12% of the population, compared to 16% nationally and 19% in California. And unlike California, Massachusetts has a budget surplus, special federal funds obtained through Medicaid and a pool of state money already dedicated to paying healthcare costs for the uninsured.” [editor’s note: Because we also need to know the arguments being used … Bodaken is chairman, president and CEO of Blue Shield of California.] (04/29/06)