The release of the Census Bureau’s annual estimate of the uninsured on August 30, 2005 attracted much public attention. By contrast, few took notice when the Department of Health and Human Services made public two other surveys earlier this year that show different results. Which measure best captures the extent of the problem? What can be learned from different surveys to improve our understanding of the uninsured? Do different statistics help or hinder policymakers as they grapple with ways to expand insurance coverage to more people?

The discussion will commence with a keynote address from Utah senator Robert F. Bennett on the policy implications of the surveys.
 
Following the address, a distinguished panel of experts will discuss the differences between the Current Population Survey (from the Census Bureau), the National Health Interview Survey (from the National Center for Health Statistics), and the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality). In addition, two independent analysts will provide their perspectives on the contributions of the three surveys to public understanding of the uninsured.