Background: US healthcare

Universal healthcare in the United States was first proposed by President Harry Truman in 1945.

Sixty years later, healthcare reform again topped the agenda when President Barack Obama took office. Let's have a look at the US health system and its new reform bill.

The United States is the only developed country that does not provide universal health care for its citizens. Its health care system is among the most expensive in the world.

Most people obtain their health insurance through employment. Only the poor, elderly and military veterans receive government-funded coverage.

Discovery Communications Wellness Center medical technician Charline Faison takes down patient medical information during an appointment at the clinic in the Discovery Communications headquarters building in Silver Spring, Maryland December 3, 2009.REUTERS/Jim Bourg