American Morning
Obama: Reform 'central' to economic recovery
WASHINGTON (CNN) - President Obama said Wednesday he was unable to guarantee that health care reform won't change how Americans get medical treatment, but he said any changes would be necessary and positive.
In a nationally televised news conference dominated by the health care issue, Obama delivered lengthy statements in response to Republican attacks on proposals he favors.
He also attempted to ease the concerns of people left confused by the fierce debate in Washington.
He repeatedly emphasized that the spiraling costs of the current system would bankrupt the nation while denying coverage to millions more Americans.
Asked directly if he could guarantee that an overhauled health care system won't change how people receive treatment, Obama said no.
"The whole point of this is to try to encourage what works," Obama said, addressing concerns that reform would take away the ability of people to choose their doctors and treatment.
Watch Obama describe importance of "getting it right" 
What's your reaction to Obama's health care speech? Tell us your thoughts.
What’s on Tap – Thursday, July 23, 2009
Here are the big stories on the agenda today:
- It's the part of President Obama's prime time news conference – that will have everyone talking today. The president going off topic to address the arrest of Harvard University professor Henry Louis Gates at his own home, saying police "acted stupidly." Today we're also hearing from the arresting officer himself – and we're live in Washington on the president's reaction.
- We’re also breaking down his health care plan. A campaign-style trip planned today after his urgent pitch last night. But does this work for you? How much will it cost you and your country? We’ll have a panel of experts break down every important detail, get GOP reaction from Rudy Giuliani, and hear from one of the president’s closest advisers, David Axelrod
- Dramatic developments in the Michael Jackson death investigation. Police raid the office of the doctor who was with Jackson when he died. The attorney for Dr. Conrad Murray now says investigators are building a case of manslaughter against him.
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