WASHINGTON – Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has released a series of new reports on the healthcare status quo that highlight what she calls the "urgent need" for health reform across the nation.

The reports are available at www.HealthReform.gov and include information on healthcare cost and quality in all 50 states.

"In states across the country, healthcare costs are going up and families are struggling to get the quality care they need and deserve," said Sebelius. "We cannot wait to pass reform that protects what works about healthcare and fixes what's broken."

Each report includes data regarding the healthcare status quo such as:

• Percent increase in family premiums since 2000.
• The hidden tax individuals and families pay as a result of subsidizing care for the uninsured.
• Percent of state residents without insurance.
• Overall quality ratings for healthcare in each state.
• The impact of failing to adequately invest in preventative measures that could prevent disease and illness.

"The American people have been calling for reform, and they should not have to wait any longer," said Sebelius. "Health reform will assure quality affordable healthcare for all Americans, lower costs and give more Americans the choices they deserve. The time for reform is now."