Bipartisan solution is needed on reform

As Congress starts its August recess, it's clear that health care reform is at the top of the nation's agenda. Congressman Mark Kirk has recently presented his own proposal, a clear sign that the issue is being taken seriously by our elected representatives.

In the end, I think that a final health reform package will include a mix of ideas from both Republicans and Democrats. I know that AARP, for instance, has been working with both parties in Congress to build bipartisan support for health care solutions.

What matters most at this point is that they get it right. Too much is at stake to ignore the serious and urgent needs of millions of Americans who are struggling with our broken health care system. Whether the answer comes from the Republican or Democratic side, let's reach out to our representatives and urge them to deliver solutions that provide quality affordable care to all Americans.

John R. Herman Sr.

Arlington Heights