PHOENIX (AP) -- An initiative proposed for the state's 2008 general election ballot would amend the Arizona Constitution to include a new right to directly purchase private health services and coverage.

The filing Tuesday by a group called Medical Choice Arizona says all people have the right to make decisions about their health care.

The one-paragraph measure also would prohibit any laws that restrict that right and would ban any penalties for declining to participate in a particular health care plan.

Supporters need to submit approximately 230,000 signatures of registered voters by July 3 to qualify the measure for the November 2008 ballot.

Jeffrey Singer, a surgeon and veteran of several previous initiative campaigns, said the medical choice measure is not a response to any current proposal but is aimed at protecting patients' rights from potential proposals from the Legislature.

Because of gridlock in Washington, a contentious issue like health care likely will be hashed out on a state by state basis, Singer said.

"We're just concerned as we see things happening around the country," Singer said, voicing concern that a health care proposal might prohibit individuals from buying services outside a particular plan or plans.

"It would take coercion out of it," he said.

Singer described the initiative as an Arizona volunteer effort that is just now getting under way and is not linked to any special interest.

"We have our work cut out for us," he said.

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