Regardless of where anyone stands on the specifics, most folks should agree the current system can be unfair and too costly – and, it needs to be fixed.  We can’t afford to sit by and do nothing anymore.  My main goal has been to make sure the Senate legislation will make health insurance more affordable and available for everyone.

While the bill by Senator Reid isn't perfect, there are many good elements. It will provide affordable coverage for millions of uninsured Americans, prevents insurance companies from dropping folks who get sick and denying coverage for pre-existing conditions.  The legislation will also reduce the deficit.

Now, we face the challenge of merging the Senate bill with the House version. In that process, I have made it clear that I would like to see negotiators close "the donut hole" - the gap in Medicare prescription drug coverage.

Below are a few news stories, videos and an op-ed I authored:

Setting the record straight: just the facts on Medicare Advantage , statement, January 07, 2010

Sen. Bill Nelson's statement on the health-care vote: , statement, December 24, 2009

Amendment aimed at drugmakers' deal , media release, December 03, 2009

Senator asks for probe of drug-industry price hikes made in advance of expected health care changes , media release, November 18, 2009

Video: U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson on the health-care bill vote , speech, October 13, 2009

Video: U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson on health-care bill on CNN , speech, October 13, 2009

Senate panel passes Medicare Advantage fix , media release, October 02, 2009

Video: The latest on health care from Sen. Bill Nelson on CNN , speech, October 01, 2009

Seniors saved from new taxes under Nelson amendment , media release, September 30, 2009

Nelson: Don't penalize seniors , published column, September 29, 2009

Measure to offer seniors full Medicare drug coverage blocked , media release, September 24, 2009

Senate Democrats Weigh Additional Drug-Maker Fees , news articles , September 23, 2009

Democrats Spar... Over PhRMA Deal , news articles , September 23, 2009

Video of Nelson on Finance Committee health care legislation , speech, September 16, 2009

Nelson backs Baucus bill as `starting point' , news articles , September 16, 2009

Nelson optimistic on new health care reform proposal , media release, September 16, 2009

Moving forward on health care , published column, September 11, 2009