The document summarizes key aspects of the ongoing debate around US health care reform in 2009. It outlines the rising costs of health care, the large number of uninsured Americans, and various approaches to reform being discussed, including expanding health IT infrastructure, comparative effectiveness research, and value-based purchasing. It also describes the political process underway, with the Senate HELP and Finance Committees and House Tri-Committee considering proposals focused on mandates, insurance exchanges, and funding sources like taxes. The targets of reform are outlined as providing insurance for most citizens while reducing overall health care spending growth.