Health care reform in the 'other Washington.' (changes in Washington state's health care)

The state of Washington has reformed its health care to include the half million inhabitants who have no health insurance. All the residents will receive basic cover from Jul 1999 under the reforms. The state wants competition amongst health care insurers on a level basis. Those who are uninsured or businesses with high insurance costs will gain from the reforms. Insurers and providers may not be able to meet the challenge, and businesses with little or no insurance will find the new plan more expensive.