U.S. Representative David Price stopped short of endorsing a Democratic candidate, but told students at UNC-Chapel Hill School of Pharmacy today that both Democratic contenders have healthcare foremost on their political agendas.

When asked about a single-payer system, such as that proposed during the Clinton administration, Price said the candidates' "health care for all" platforms aren't likely to mean such sweeping reforms. 

"A lot of people in this country have very good coverage through their workplace, and I think either candidate would be fairly cautious about upending that system," he said.  Price said he expects a "hybrid" system for healthcare reform, which would keep workplace-based plans but would add a single-payer option.     

Price criticized Republican candidate John McCain for what he called "a lack of a position" on healthcare reform.  "I have seen very little evidence that Senator McCain even considers this one of his issues," he said. 

Price was invited to speak by the Student Political Information Network.   He praised an initiative started by the School of Pharmacy known as "The Asheville Project," through which community pharmacists provide one-on-one counseling and support to patients with chronic medical conditions.  Price said he supports legislation that would provide financial reimbursement to pharmacists for the service.