It is a complex system of public and private insurance plans, regulated by the government but still giving individuals a good deal of choice.

VOA: standard.2009.09.28

Most contentious was the proposal for a government-run insurance option, also known as a public option, to give Americans a choice over private insurance companies.

VOA: standard.2009.11.08

In a statement on Monday, White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said the president is pleased that the Senate has decided to include a public option, and that he supports it because it has the potential to hold insurance companies accountable through choice and competition.

VOA: standard.2009.10.26