What makes Michael Moore tick, and why U.S. healthcare ticks him off. Next time on NOW.

For years, the U.S. healthcare system has been assailed from all sides. At best, it's portrayed as a frustrating bureaucracy. At worst, it's costing people their very lives. In his new documentary, "Sicko,"Michael Moore has turned his eye toward our American Healthcare system, as dominated and regulated by insurance companies, health maintenance organizations and legislators who are too often bought off by "Big Pharmacy"and HMOs. As part of his research, Moore asked for - and received - thousands of healthcare nightmare stories, many of which are retold in the film. He also takes a hard look at how our system stacks up against those of Canada, France, Great Britain...and Cuba.

On Friday, June 29 at 8:30 pm, NOW Host David Brancaccio sits down with the controversial chronicler of American culture to find out what makes him tick, and why our healthcare system ticks him off.

The NOW website at www.pbs.org/now will provide additional coverage starting Friday morning, June 29. Features include a web-exclusive audio interview with former 9/11 volunteer emergency responder Reggie Cervantes, who was featured in Sicko; and information on getting and keeping good health insurance in your state.