A reader replied to last week's newsletter (thanks Carolyn) asking me to take my stand on healthcare reform, in particular what the US Senate has done about it.
In the past few months I've resisted writing about it because, frankly, I feel like trying to keep up with Washington is like nailing jello to a tree -- it can't be done. But I'm going to take up Carolyn's request because I am frustrated by the discussions and (maybe by the time this posts) the vote the Senate is getting ready to make.
I have three words for senators: DON'T DO IT!!
If you have been a longtime reader, you know I am very much in favor of reform. Too many Americans can't get any healthcare services, too many think they can, but learn the hard way that they don't have the insurance coverage they need, and no one is happy with the system except pharmaceutical companies and health insurance companies that continue to rake in the dough.
American healthcare is not about health or care; it's about sickness and money -- using sickness to make money.
So far I've watched and waited to see how the important parts of legislation would be affected by the House or the Senate, and my conclusion? That those Senators (in particular) have waffled, have washed out any of the worthwhile aspects of reform and ta da!! All they are about to do is hand over even MORE of our money to private insurers!!
Wait a minute!! What's wrong with this picture?
Here are just a few of the problems:
1. No public option, and no expanded Medicare means that costs will go up for those with private insurance, meaning -- even MORE people won't be able to afford coverage! That's backwards!
2. Reductions in Medicare reimbursements means fewer doctors will be willing to take Medicare patients meaning -- even MORE people won't be able to afford coverage! That's backwards too!
3. What these politicians are holding up is "NO MORE DENIALS for pre-existing conditions" -- and we are supposed to think they have done something good? The problem is this -- health insurers will be happy to accept someone with a pre-existing condition. But they will make that insurance so expensive that no one will be able to afford it anyway! Seriously -- that makes NO sense...
An example: Mr. Jones, age 50, who has been working for XYZ Company for 20 years and had health coverage which he and his employer paid for for 20 years, gets laid off. A year later, he is diagnosed with diabetes. He applies for private health insurance (because he won't be old enough for Medicare for another 15 years) and the insurer says "Oh Yes, we will offer you coverage because, by law, we cannot deny that insurance to you. Here's a policy. We will cover 50% of all your appointments and supplies, and your premium will be only $5000 a month."
The only winners in the legislation the Senate wants to pass are private insurers... yes, that's right. NOT patients, NOT doctors -- private insurers. This bill insists everyone be offered coverage, any possible way of making it affordable (meaning, the public option) have been removed -- and insurers continue to get cart blanche by pricing coverage any old way they wish.
Believe me. I NEVER thought I'd be agreeing with either Howard Dean OR John McCain on healthcare reform - but they say STOP and so do I. We American patients, our future health and our financial stability, are being sold down the river.
And I have to wonder... with any substance removed from this bill.... what DON'T we know? What backroom deals are being made?
And why is everyone in such a hurry? Go home, take a break through the holidays, and come back in January. Take your time. This is TOOO important to rush through it when it's only going to cost more heartache and frustration over time. The unanticipated consequences will cost money and lives, too.
What can we patients do? Right now -- this very second (unless you read this too late) contact your Senator and say NO NO NO! Do not pass this watered down, poor excuse for legislation. Do NOT mortgage my healthcare or anyone else's. You have not done your job!
(OK Carolyn -- aren't you glad you asked?)
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You go Girl. I was listening to the debate and am very disappointed. Giving in to Senators who disagree with the public option by rewarding them with millions for their vote.I know that if reform did not happen now it may never happen, but what price do we pay. And much of the reform will take place years down the road. I say include in your letters to your senator, mention your anger about Ben Nelson and the senator from Louisanna deal. I live in Washington DC and do not have a senator or one with voting rights. The Democrats have a lot running for office next year, and many leaving we need to use our power and focus on them. I am proud of you, not only on your stand but the sources made available for patient advocacy. May your Christmas bring on blessings and favor and a New Year of Peace.