It is clear that what we're doing right now is not working. Demanding
or trying to create more competition so that the free market forces
will result in competition and lowered costs has been given a free
reign for decades and has not resulted in any reduced costs for anyone.
The fact that health insurance today is provided by corporations that
are duty bound to make a profit complicates the issue further. Would we
think it acceptable if any other necessary public service (think fire,
police, schools) had to run as profitable businesses?
How much could/would health care costs be lowered if the need to make a
profit were removed from the financial equation? Does it really make
sense to deliver health care through for-profit corporations?
Look at the health care programs that do work. Vermont's Dr. Dynasaur
program is held up as a model for the rest of the country. Children
under 18 receive health care -- period. Look at Medicaid. Look at the
insurance that federal employees receive.
Government-run programs can and do operate efficiently and provide
people with quality coverage and personal choice in terms of doctors,
hospitals and procedures. Fees will be based on ability to pay.
No one will be mandated to opt for the public health care option, but
no one will be able to be kicked off it either. No losing your coverage
for a pre-existing condition or because you lose your job or because
your insurance company leaves town.
Let's let a government-run program give private insurance companies a
run for their money and let's see which one provides the better
product.
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