As a consumer I appreciate it very much. I've had success in lowering bills for two close family members - one we had to change insurance companies after the first year as their premiums went up a bunch. The plan she landed on though offers more with less outlay. She did change doctors - but her new one is closer and she likes her much better. Anecdotal - sure - but that's been my experience.

As a provider - I'm happy that the many children in my community who live below and above the poverty line are able to secure health care. And their parents are able to afford care for themselves - which in turn leads to healthier children overall as well.

Do I think it's the "answer"? I'm not so sure. Insurance companies still hold a lot of sway over choice and access. It's funny - right before Obamacare was signed into law - I had many friends/acquaintances say things like "I don't want some government telling me what to do with my health". I would nod and smile usually - as I didn't want to tell them it was already worse than that - multinational corporations with bottom lines and shareholders were already making those decisions. More or less.