I don't think anyone thinks it's universal health care

as far as it being a gift to the insurance companies, let's not forget the law calls for government oversight and regulation regarding pricing and a panel must review any premium hikes. They also prevent the insurance companies from denying coverage for pre-existing conditions and will require them to provide coverage regardless of conditions and without a "lifetime spending limit" of coverage. I believe it will also stimulate competition in the insurance industry which will lead to new companies being formed and lower rates for all. I don't foresee any of the insurance companies getting a huge boost out of it considering they already have most people in their pockets and with all the added government regulation stipulations preventing them from maximizing profits at the expense of the people they cover by denying claims and such.