* Deregulates insurance markets so that people could buy insurance from any state.
* Would cost $1.3 trillion over 10 years, according to the non-partisan Tax Policy Center.
Obama's plan takes a different approach, basically building on to the current system where most people get insurance through their employers and enhancing the options for those who lack coverage.
Buchmueller said that the Democrat approach is:
"Let's take what works and keep it and replicate it for people who don't have it."
Obama proposes creating a new National Health Insurance Exchange where the uninsured would buy coverage, as well as boosting subsidies for low-income people who lack health insurance.
In addition, Obama would prohibit insurers from denying coverage for pre-existing conditions.
He also would require employers to provide health insurance, although there would be an opt-out for small business.
Blumberg said that 96 percent of Americans would likely have coverage under Obama's plan, compared with about 83 percent today. She did question how Obama would pay for his proposals, noting that many details on how to cover the estimated $1.6 trillion cost aren't fleshed out.
McCain has attacked Obama's proposals, saying he would create government-run health care.
"If you're a small business person and you don't insure your employees, Sen. Obama will fine you," McCain said. "Will fine you. That's remarkable."
Details of Obama's plan:
* Sets up a national health-insurance exchange that offers private insurance options.
* Offers a national health-care plan for uninsured.
* Mandates that employers must offer insurance or pay a fine, with the exception of small businesses.
* Prevents insurance companies from setting prices or denying coverage due to health status.
* Mandates that all children must have coverage.
* Would cost $1.6 trillion over 10 years, according to the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center.
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