Preparing for health reform: a blueprint for improving health care access, cost, and quality in metropolitan areas

This article analyzes the preparedness of 16 cities for health care reform. Readiness for reform is defined as when cities' health care systems are aligned with three goals of health care reform: increased access, reduced cost, and improved quality. The study confirms that health care is distinctly different among metropolitan areas and that each city has strengths on which to build and challenges to overcome. The study concludes that steps toward health care reform are within the reach of many cities, with health care purchasers, providers payers, and patients playing significant roles.