Precursor to a national ID? (Score 1, Interesting)

Presumably this system would require a way to identify individuals (beyond name/address)...has there been any discussion of how that would be accomplished? (Social security number?) I can't think of a way that this could be accomplished where it wouldn't be controversial. Presumably you'd want to carry your "Health ID" at all times so that your records could be accessed in an emergency room. -Russ