0_Apprentice
I have not personally been encumbered with medical bills but I know they can be devastating to a family. Do you have any personal experience with this?
1_Wizard
We've always had insurance but I know the healthcare debate has been a political issue for a long time.
0_Apprentice
Absolutely! It is a very complex issue with no real clear answers in sight. I do feel for families though who can't afford to take care of their loved ones.
1_Wizard
It's been going on for a long time.  One of the earliest proposals at the federal level was in 1854.
0_Apprentice
Wow! I had no idea! What can you tell me about this 1854 health care proposal?
1_Wizard
It was a bill for the Indigent Insane - established asylums for the indigent as well as blind and deaf.
0_Apprentice
How did it go? Was it well received and adopted?
1_Wizard
Passed both houses, but vetoed by the President 
0_Apprentice
Showing my ignorance here, but who was the president at this time?
1_Wizard
President Pierce - ever heard of him?