A new analysis from the Center for American Progress demonstrates the benefits of passing health care reform on the American economy. Passing reform, say the authors, could increase the number of jobs in the United States by about 250,000 to 400,000 per year over the coming decade.

Skeptics of health care reform argue that it will do little to control health care spending in the long run. Yet even the skeptics agree that successful health reform will reduce uninsurance by expanding private nongroup, private small group, and public insurance coverage. This expansion in insurance coverage will likely increase health care jobs since the newly insured will need doctors, nurses, and other health care personnel to meet their medical needs. So even those with doubts about reform would have to recognize that it will likely create jobs and also improve the well-being of the currently uninsured, many of whom are unemployed.

A more optimistic view of health reform recognizes its potential to improve the efficiency of the U.S. health care system. More efficient health care will lower the burden of health insurance premiums for firms, and in turn allow them to hire more workers. This will also increase the number of jobs and at the same time reduce the financial woes of those struggling with uninsurance and a depressed labor market.

A recent poll conducted by the Progressive Campaign Change Committee, found that 62% of Minnesota voters support health care reform that includes a public option.