HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said the Obama administration is open to talks with Texas about expanded healthcare for the poor.

Sebelius said her office is open to crafting a uniquely Texan plan to make sure everyone has health insurance. On Thursday she met with officials in Austin and San Antonio to talk about how local communities can take advantage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

Texas has the nation's highest rate of uninsured people.

Next year Americans who can afford health insurance are required to buy it. Local communities will also receive some assistance for treating the poor.

Gov. Rick Perry opposes the federal law and has promised to do nothing to help implement what he calls a broken program.