The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
June 11, 2009
President Obama's plans for overhauling the U.S. health care system are expected to include several initiatives aimed at reducing the burden of chronic diseases and improving the overall health of Americans, Politico reports. Specifically, Obama's health reform plan is expected to call for obesity screenings, nutrition counseling and other wellness programs. The recently passed economic stimulus package included $650 million in funding for preventive health programs, funding Obama says will improve the health of Americans and help reduce health care costs. Obama also is expected to propose measures that would allot more time during the school day for physical activity, improve the nutritional value of school lunches, and add pedestrian and bike paths and grocery stores in underserved areas.