There should be no reason to completely alter the best healthcare system in the world. Granted the best is expensive. Our quality of life in the U.S. is worth the best. Having said this, there are ways to fine tune and control costs.
Tort reform would do much in this area and reduce defensive medicine practiced by providers with the sole intent of protecting their interests in the event of malpractice claims. Legislation could be directed at reducing the number of these suits, capping the award and generally discouraging frivolous attempts at financial gain in this way leaving room for instances where true negligence requires judicial remedy. Hundreds of millions of dollars could be saved. I am under the impression the healthcare reform being considered does not even touch upon this area.
Concerning existing government healthcare programs, each time the government reduces Medicare/Medicaid/SCHIP provider reimbursements, these costs are simply shifted from the government to the private sector. This then requires insured individuals and pay-as-you-go patients to fill the financial shortfall created by the government’s cost shifting. Thus, higher premiums and a good reason for the government not to be involved in health care. If cost-shifting is your principle method to contain costs, exiting not entering the healthcare system would be the best decision for the taxpayer.
I’ve heard this number of 47 million people in the U.S. without health insurance. Through all the political rhetoric, I’ve not been informed of the demographics of this group. Based on my research, I found a 2006 census bureau report. Of the 47 million, the report states:
- 10 million are not U.S. citizens
- 18 million are between the ages of 18 through 34 and choose not to purchase health insurance
With minimal research on my part, the 47 million is now 19 million uninsured and not a statistical crisis requiring any change in our healthcare system. Additional research, I believe, would also further reduce this 19 million figure.
Please discuss this issue with your constituents. The many who I have spoken to do not believe the government takeover of our healthcare system is warranted or in the best interest of the individual. Further, I’ve heard many issues raised concerning the government’s constitutional obligation to even enter the healthcare system. Does one exist? Couple this with the current economic condition and the huge deficits already encumbering our society leaves no room for an unneeded healthcare plan with questionable constitutionality.
In closing, our elected officials represent the people, not solely their party’s platform. Elected officials are going to be held accountable for their votes and the programs they support. I trust with God’s help you will make the best decisions for our Country.
Sincerely,