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By fed up

August 20, 2009 10:24 AM | Link to this

I have heard many people say that health care is not right. Well—-in a civilized, compassionate society, shouldn’t basic health care be considered a right? I am not by any means a socialist, but health care and affordable health insurance is way out of reach for many people, and the problem is getting worse. We already have rationing under the current system, but it is done by the insurance companies. I do not by any means think illegals should be included in any kind of government option. I wonder, though, rather than starting off trying to insure everyone, could we perhaps create some kind of program to ensure that all children are insured, see how that goes, and then expand the program? They of all people need good health care but for many families it is out of reach. Why can’t we have a rational debate about the subject without shouting and name-calling (and I am not referring to comments made here, but at the town hall meetings, or whatever they are called). You can strongly disagree with someone but be respectful about it.

By fed up

August 17, 2009 8:52 PM | Link to this

a video for tea party people: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHVwrCzRUX0

By Jerome

August 16, 2009 6:35 PM | Link to this

@ Lastmanstanding - The system is broken and to rely on the people who broke it to fix it is stupid when they have every incentive to keep the system as is. I’m not sure if government health care is the solution, but our government is going to have to find a way to fix the problem that exists. Personally I think of health care much the same way as I do the electric, gas, and water which is to say that they are “utilities” that are not driven by strict market forces and as such they need to be regulated to ensure that they serve the society and charge an equitable rate for the service or product they provide. Drug companies should not be able to charge twice in the U.S. for the same drug they sell in Canada and an insurance company should not be able to charge more to one group of people covered for the same policy provided to another group for less money, after all the insurance company is going to pay the same negotiated rate to the service provider for both policies. As the current economic situation proves there is a place for regulation to ensure a healthy market and minimize the types of abuse that brought us derivative trading and Enron.

By mwm

August 16, 2009 5:50 PM | Link to this

to lastmanstanding, our privacy went away many years ago. That is fact. The govt already has all the information you listed and more. Anything that is stored on a computer is easily accessed. Your fearmongering means nothing. Health care reform will happen… Mainly due to public outcry and anger towards the insurance and pharmaceutical industry lobbyists, the members of congress currently being bribed by said lobbyists and the moral and ethical considerations of caring for those with health problems. Our “founding fathers” had ethics and some had moral fiber. Current political forces have lobbyists and campaign donors. That is the difference. We choose to call ourselves a “christian country” And as such, we take care of our own. Countries such as France and England have split systems of socialized and open health care. They both are leading us in the health and medical care. And also have wellness programs. Many other countries lead us with socialized medicine. We have socialized medicine with the VA, the military and free clinics in urban areas. And, they do work. We should consider both public and private health care. Specifically the FEHB system.

By Josh

August 16, 2009 4:46 PM | Link to this

Lastmanstanding, you talk about every thing except health care. Did you know that the cost of health insurance exceeds the cost of metal in an American car? We are in world economy that has destroyed our manufacturing base. There is nothing in the constitution that suggest that this is not the proper role of government. In the 1700’s health care was different than it is today. It was less effective but it it was less expensive. I don’t trust the government, I don’t trust big insurance but I don’t trust you the most. When it comes time for the flu shot I assume you will skip yours.

By lastmanstanding

August 16, 2009 4:07 PM | Link to this

Now Is Not The Time For The Faint Of Heart “A government afraid of its citizens is a Democracy. Citizens afraid of government is tyranny!” — Thomas Jefferson What is all the ruckus and paranoia coming from the White House and the Congress this week as a result of “town meetings”. Participants characterized as unruly “mobs” and “swastika carrying nazis” using brown shirt tactics, typically taking the form of business owners, elderly grandmothers, everyday moms and ball cap wearing veterans, are scaring our congressional elected officials. BOOOO HOOOOO. Buck it up and get over it you arrogant congressional chickens. I am sick to death of our elected officials, from both parties, demonstrating outward contempt for the voters that elected them to office. This week was a banner week, for the Democrats in particular, for publicly denigrating the American public. As an informed group, I am certain that I need not tick off the insults coming from the Pied Piper Nancy Pelosi and the “Blind Mice” that follow her. Suffice it to say, they are going to use every dirty tactic they can devise to turn back this tide of citizen discontent. They are taking lessons from Saul Alinsky’s book Rules for Radicals…..a book that our President used as a community organizer in Chicago. We are the generation of Constitutional destiny. Our founding fathers call down through the ages to this time and to “WE THE PEOPLE”. Their message is clear; we must preserve OUR NATION by rekindling the brotherhood of FREEDOM and as Samuel Adams proclaimed in Boston, we must “….set brushfires in peoples minds.” Now is not the time for the faint of heart. We owe our freedom to the generations before us and it is our duty and in that duty our honor to preserve the liberty we so treasure. George Washington found himself in many daunting and seemingly hopeless circumstances during our young country’s fight for liberty against the tyranny of England. He was always found in prayer, kneeling next to his horse just before a battle with the British. His prayer might be one we repeat today…. Be calm, be still, “for if the Lord is with us, who can be against us.” Be you of whatever faith or belief in a higher power, we must ask for strength, wisdom and courage to preserve and protect our natural rights as free men and women in the greatest country ever known to man. Let Freedom Ring

By lastmanstanding

August 16, 2009 3:53 PM | Link to this

mwm- The only torch that is being passed is the one that is setting fire to the pages of our Constitution and the Bill of Rights. There are no provisions in these documents for Government-Run Healthcare. So how has this happened over the past 100 years? Just like today, an uninformed public, gaga over a non-desrcript message of “hope and change” that will eventually lead to an America that we no longer recognize. Do you realize what you are giving up by handing over your remaining rights as a citizen? Here is just one example. Privacy, gone. The government now will have your income figures, access to your bank account, your past health history, your current health problems, whether you smoke, drink or practice careless sex. Remember, all of this will be in a central database. If you doubt me, read HR 3200. With that information, they can then begin to control your behavior and eventually ration your care on the excuse that you do not fall on the positive side of the cost benefit calculation. (Read Peter Singer -NY Times July 15th.) So you think you have trouble with Health Insurance Companies. At least you can sue them. Try suing the government. Good luck I am confident that your response will brush this off as right wing scare tactics. However, I encourage you to read your history pertaining to Germany from Bismark to Hitler. The people reacted in the same way to governments relentless bulldozing of personal rights under the guise that government is a benevolent institution. But hey, I am just an alarmist, it can’t happen here. Chicago Politics…..naaaah

By I don't know the answer

August 16, 2009 3:48 PM | Link to this

@Have some sense; yes my spelling isn’t the best. Thank God for spell check. I will be sure to use it more often! If you daughter’s conditions is under control and she is able to work she can get coverage through an employer (assuming she is an adult) now let’s pretend you lose your coverage for whatever reason. Call Blue Cross (or anyone else) and tell them you need an individual policy to cover your family. They will take a health history of each family member. In all likelihood (like I am 100% sure)she will be turned down for coverage. For her to qualify under Medicaid she needs to be on Social Security disability, which means she is not able to hold a job. Means her bipolar is severe and not mild for example. And I hope that it is not severe and that it never happens to her. If something happened to you, if you were hurt, died, what would she do? Gop on welfare? Does she have assets or ever hope to have more than $1,500 to her name? Just for fun call Blue Cross on Monday and ask if you can get coverage for a child with a history of mental illness, bi polar and be sure to give them the list of meds she is on. (they will get this in from doctor records anyway) That is how an application starts. She is uninsurable. She is an unacceptable risk. She has very limited inpatient hospital days for her Bipolar should it ever become more severe and limited outpatient visits also. Be glad that under the current system you have not had to experience that side of insurance. I wish your daughter well, and I am glad she is stable and gets the medical attention she needs. The local number for Blue Cross is 428-8170. When they say yes they can, be sure to ask about mental health and the will say no we can’t! Funny how it works out that way. I amnot being cute, call and see what happens, and that in a nut shell is the problem.

By HaveSomeSense

August 16, 2009 2:57 PM | Link to this

Hey I don’t know … If you already have health coverage (and that includes any welfare type coverage), you cannot be denied private/group health care coverage under COBRA laws, but you have to find a job that will provide private healthcare (and good coverage is not cheap). I have a daughter who is bi-polar and she has never been excluded when I have changed policies, and she takes a couple of the medications you have listed (but mis-spelled).

By I don't know the answer

August 16, 2009 2:28 PM | Link to this

The following are automatic declines in private health insurance policy: Mental Health (depression, bi polar) and all others, Quadriplegia Hypertrophy People who take Abilify, Clozapine, Plavix, Insulin, Geodone, Warfarin, Hysterectrtomy, due to cancer, Hemophilia, High Blood pressure Maligneat, non controlled,- nope Juvenile Diabetes? Your kid? Forget it. I once saw a healthy 60 year old turned down for cataracts. She offered to to a high deductible (10,000) and pay that her self. The underwriter said no, that too many things can go wrong in a hospital. Coronary bypass forget it. Got a kid on Ritalin, some companies don’t want him either. Downs syndrome, nope, Kidney Transplant, nope, Parkinson, on your own, open heart, our doors are closed to you. This list is so larfgei it consumes several pages in a book. It is divided into medical conditions that are a decline, Medications that are a decline then their are rate ups. Someplace on this list is you or a family member. Then there is the problem of policies with loop holes, for little or no coverage, mental health, learning disorders, aspergers, autism, life time limits. A very well know local doctor told me he was afraid that his $1.000,000.00 policy would not be enough to pay for his cancer treatment. People don’t realize how expensive it can be to be sick. Sick on the job, loose your job, can’t afford COBRA, loose your insurance, you can afford COBRA great you got it for 18 months, still sick after COBRA nobody will insure you. Healthy after COBRA hope you are not black listed with a nasty preexisting condition. I am not sure what the answer is. I am not a socialist, but I think every American should have access to health care. I don’t trust insurance companies who answer to wall street and I don’t trust politicians, who never listen anyway. I don’t see cost going down unless medical providers do less. How much money did MVH make last year? Call them and ask, problem is everyone in the room is a little dirty when it comes to our current system, including the public.

By mwm

August 16, 2009 2:03 PM | Link to this

The “argument” that government can’t do anything right is old, outdated and just plain wrong. The VA, is a quality medical system. Most vets I talk to have gotten quality care from the VA. Including my father, a vet with three tours in VietNam. And, myself, who went to the VA for a short time after my military service. The US postal service is losing ground due to technology. The conservative ideology of government being the problem is old and outdated. Face it, GOP, Reagan is dead. He is not a saint and his ideology will not work anymore. So, get over it. Besides, the GOP doesn’t even have any viable leadership anymore. They are a splintered set of dysfunctional thought processes. This is a new era. And, to coin an old phrase, “the torch has been passed”. The health insurance industry and it’s lobbyists are nothing more than extortion artists. You pay your premium, get rejected claims in the mail, followed by bills from medical providers, phone your insurance company and fight over the claims. If eventually denied, you end up with the bills. I you don’t pay the bills, your credit is ruined. What a scam! Yes, we do need health care reform. And, it will take some government intervention. Public and private insurance both.

By cohobill

August 16, 2009 12:58 PM | Link to this

KC the vet & shoutandscream. The country has a constitution that made this country great. Where in this document does it say that healthcare is a right? Who gave the right for people that were elected to protect the constitution to make the rules regarding healthcare? Shoutoutloud, the government runs the VA, right? How can you believe that they would get this massive healthcare thing right? You said the VA care was terrible. I suppose it was George Bush’s fault. What government program ever worked? The problem with healthcare and the economy is that the government causes the problem and is the problem.

By Barry

August 16, 2009 12:29 PM | Link to this

BHO gives a speech surrounded by friendly supporters, and is asked questions by plants (the little girl that asked “why are people so mean Mr. President?, was from another state, and her mom worked on BHO’s election committee) by all means believe everything he says, and believe that the government will love you and take care of you. take the blue pill

By Barry

August 16, 2009 12:25 PM | Link to this

http://www.westandfirm.org/blog/uploadedimages/govhealthcare-782794.jpg this is the org chart that the demos in congress have not allowed the repubs in congress to send out. this is what the supporters of government run health care are supporting. the truth is out there and it is ugly

By Barry

August 16, 2009 12:19 PM | Link to this

http://energycommerce.house.gov/Press_111/20090714/aahca.pdf here is the nightmare, all 1017 pages of the thing. read it. limited appeals, no judicial review, IRS and the rest of the government has real time warrant-less access to all financial records. it is in there.

By Barry

August 16, 2009 12:06 PM | Link to this

If George Orwell could see the future, and this bill is it, he sugar coated 1984 because no one would believe how bleak the future (under this bill) would be

By Barry

August 16, 2009 12:03 PM | Link to this

I wonder, when you are old and about to retire, and about to be cut off because you aren’t young and productive anymore, will they give people who volunteer services a reprieve or do they go to the old person glue factory with everyone else? read the House Bill, it’s in there. You will be cut off and you will have limited appeals. Check the facts for yourself before you sell your grandma down the river on this government health care. read the darn thing before it is too late

By lastmanstanding

August 16, 2009 11:56 AM | Link to this

Please Excuse the accidental duplication

By Barry

August 16, 2009 11:55 AM | Link to this

Limited appeal process, no judicial review, unlimited warrant-less IRS access to all of your financial records and all your employer’s financial records. Its in there, read the Bill

By lastmanstanding

August 16, 2009 11:51 AM | Link to this

Jerome -And the government is the one to control them? That a great idea with their stellar record. Some laws need to be changed to allow greater across state access to various health plans for more competition and tort reform is also necessary to eliminate the wasted dollars for “defensive” tests. A significant number of the 40 million who don’t have coverage, choose not to have it. I have employees that fall into this category and our coverage costs them 120.00 per month. Pretty affordable when you look at the excellent benefits our plan offers. In fact, all of my business partners have the same great plan. Again, its irresponsibility and priorities. I am tired of the free loaders and want to help the ones who are needy, plain and simple. Government intervention is a forumula for disaster. Do you not learn from history? As for dollars for the grass roots organization… I wish our organization could get some support to compete against George Soros….lame, lame, lame argument. Who are these reportedly credible links…ACORN….lame, lame lame…site your sources. Your rhetoric sounds remarkably like David Axlerod!

By lastmanstanding

August 16, 2009 11:51 AM | Link to this

Jerome -And the government is the one to control them? That a great idea with their stellar record. Some laws need to be changed to allow greater across state access to various health plans for more competition and tort reform is also necessary to eliminate the wasted dollars for “defensive” tests. A significant number of the 40 million who don’t have coverage, choose not to have it. I have employees that fall into this category and our coverage costs them 120.00 per month. Pretty affordable when you look at the excellent benefits our plan offers. In fact, all of my business partners have the same great plan. Again, its irresponsibility and priorities. I am tired of the free loaders and want to help the ones who are needy, plain and simple. Government intervention is a forumula for disaster. Do you not learn from history? As for dollars for the grass roots organization… I wish our organization could get some support to compete against George Soros….lame, lame, lame argument. Who are these reportedly credible links…ACRON….lame, lame lame…site your sources. Your rhetoric sounds like David Axlerod!

By lastmanstanding

August 16, 2009 11:48 AM | Link to this

Jerome -And the government is the one to control them? That a great idea with their stellar record. Some laws need to be changed to allow greater across state access to various health plans for more competition and tort reform is also necessary to eliminate the wasted dollars for “defensive” tests. A significant number of the 40 million who don’t have coverage, choose not to have it. I have employees that fall into this category and our coverage costs them 120.00 per month. Pretty affordable when you look at the excellent benefits our plan offers. In fact, all of my business partners have the same great plan. Again, its irresponsibility and priorities. I am tired of the free loaders and want to help the ones who are needy, plain and simple. Government intervention is a forumula for disaster. Do you not learn from history? As for dollars for the grass roots organization… I wish our organization could get some support to compete against George Soros….lame, lame, lame argument. Try again

By experienced

August 16, 2009 11:44 AM | Link to this

accountable, you think that just because someone is obese they are lazy. Get real, I know of several people that weigh much more than I do and have no health problems. Yet, I am over weight because of a medical condition to start with, steroids and birth control pills caused me to gain over 100 pounds 25 years ago. No I have heart disease, diabetes and gout. But, I still work, still go to school to improve myself and control my diabetes the best way I can. I have also lost over 60 pounds in the past year due to extra effort and support from family. But I could also have many of the same problems at 140 pounds due to family history. So, think again before you make statements you have no experience with.

By Lynn

August 16, 2009 11:35 AM | Link to this

Yes, Mike, throw the race card. How original. Of course, disagreement with Pres. Obama can’t be based on an honest difference of opinion. It has to be because he’s black. Nice way to try to shut down discussion, but it didn’t work.

By KC the Vet

August 16, 2009 11:28 AM | Link to this

I’m a veteran and can’t get VA health benefits thanks to your buddy George Bush. So until you aginners deal with that and get it fixed, let Obama get on with his program.

By Jerome

August 16, 2009 10:59 AM | Link to this

@L Berry - That sounds like tax evasion to me. Kind of like when one of the Japanese motorcycle companies got caught in the 80’s “selling” parts from their overseas division to the dealers in the U.S. for more than the dealer charged for the part so that they could always claim a loss. And there are plenty of self employed people that do have to pay that full cost because they cannot afford health insurance, or those who make too much to get Medicare but are not covered by their employer for one reason or another. Or those who find themselves unemployed but their unemployment benefits are too high to qualify for Medicare. And isn’t this whole reason for this health care reform to make it easier and more affordable for this growing portion of the population who are not able to get coverage through their employer or Medicare.

By Jerome

August 16, 2009 10:45 AM | Link to this

@ lastmanstanding - The funding for the Anti-Health care reform is coming from the $133 million a day that the health care lobbyists are spending right now. There have been credible links reported on that link the “grass roots” web sites and organizations to the lobbying firms that represent the health care industry. They are fanning the flames with disinformation. Medicare would be in a lot better shape if the cost of health care rose at a rate more in line with inflation for the past decade, but as I recall it has been rising at least three times the rate of inflation (8.5 times earnings since 2000 in Ohio). The system will never be fixed until this is brought under control and the industry has proven that they will not do it.

By L Berry

August 16, 2009 10:34 AM | Link to this

The reason Health Care facilities accept less from Insurance Companies is so they can write off the difference betweeen listed price and what insurance pays. They post huge losses that way. Tax base saves them a ton which they can make better profits. Very few people actually have to pay List price. People who can afford to pay already have insurance. Those who can’t afford use medicaid.

By Jerome

August 16, 2009 10:16 AM | Link to this

@Be accountable - Insurance is the worst way to hold people individually accountable since it spreads the cost over the entire pool of those insured. If you want to hold people accountable then make it a single payer system and add in an extra tax on cigarettes and junk food, or get ride of the insurance industry all together and let everyone pay for their own care. Also, as you are complaining about the extra cost that smokers add to the cost of health care, how much more in taxes a smoker is paying to keep your overall tax bill down. At $4/pack well over half of it is tax ($1.01 Federal and $1.25 State). If you add in county taxes a pack a day smoker is paying an extra $900 or more a year which helps keep everyone else’s taxes lower and helps to fund the State Children’s Health Insurance Program so that non-smokers have to be bothered with higher taxes to pay for insuring other peoples kids.

By lastmanstanding

August 16, 2009 10:00 AM | Link to this

The underlying problem here is a severe lack of trust in government. We have repeatedly been lied to for the last 100 years by our politicians. Both parties are interested in one thing, their power base and the preservation of such. The solution is complex, but it must start with the citizens of this country demanding accountability of their elected officials by becoming aware and involved. Like it or not, the Tea Party Movement is a direct result of peoples frustration with a government that no longer believes that the power flows from the people. Soft tyranny, the incremental intrusion of all levels of government in our private lives, has reached a point that Americans are saying ENOUGH! No one is against reforming health care, however, an increasing percentage of the American public are against government creep into one sixth of our economy. It has been well documented on YouTube in statements by Barney Frank and President Obama that their eventual goal is a single payer plan. Our government has or is in the process of driving into bankruptcy Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare. With the track record our government has established in running any “social” endeavor, isn’t it obvious why Americans are afraid? Disengage from your political tribalism, the division of the true American spirit created by the mass media press and both political parties. The straw man they point to is a diversion from the real issue, the ongoing march to erode our Liberty guaranteed by the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

By fed up

August 16, 2009 9:56 AM | Link to this

And one more thing. HR676

By fed up

August 16, 2009 9:53 AM | Link to this

I agree it will be true reform when every American citizen has the same single payer system.

By still not reform

August 16, 2009 9:45 AM | Link to this

Why don’t we require our congressmen to enroll in the same healthcare plans they are proposing for the Nation? Congress is settign all kinds of rules etc for our healthcare… yet they get a different , more expensive and better healthcare program. Why is that?

By Jerome

August 16, 2009 9:41 AM | Link to this

Larry, I know the insurance companies run the business and negotiate at times huge discounts for the services. I had a physical last year with 3 lab tests, the insurance company paid an average of $10 for the tests, the average price for the tests was $100. That extra $270 is a lot of profit made off the uninsured who by your argument cost the company less to bill because they don’t have to pay someone to file the insurance paperwork. Sure this may be an extreme example but most charges are discounted at least 25% for the insurance companies.

By still not reform

August 16, 2009 9:39 AM | Link to this

Our representatives are not not discussiong healthcare reform… reform that would reduce cost of healthcare… they are merely moving money form one pocket .. (Medicare) and putting it in another (universal healthcare)….. and then adding more expense. They do not have the backbone to implement real reform….which includes Tort reform and changing people’s behavior … (as a nation we need to lose weight and stop smoking).

By Dave

August 16, 2009 9:38 AM | Link to this

For all you supporters of Government run healthcare, How soon we forget the deplorable conditions we found in our VA healthcare facilities, Do you think the same could happen in your local hospital after NOBAMA ruins us all. Count on it. Also who do you think is gonna benefit from this so called change, BIG INSURANCE, they are lickin there chops to insure the 13 million individuals that will be required to carry insurance.

By renee

August 16, 2009 9:32 AM | Link to this

I am a nurse working in the home health care industry. I have been notified through my employer that my job could be in jeopardy if expected cuts in government reimbursement on home health care are made via the current bill that passed the house. I love my job and really need it as my husband is currently laid off. But I want the best for the most people. I support health care reform. It seems to me that this issue has inspired more ire in conservatives than the government sponsored and taxpayer backed war with Iraq. Let’s all cut through the politics and help our country accomplish something positive.

By Be accountable

August 16, 2009 9:31 AM | Link to this

People need to be accountable. The Number 1 and 2 causes for high cost of healthcare are OBESITY and SMOKING. Both are lifestyle choices … why should anyone else or the government pay for others’ choices. If we exercised more, ate less and stopped smoking we would reduce healthcare greatly. This is another example of our lazy citizenry lookng for entitlements rather than be accoutnable for their own situation.

By Larry

August 16, 2009 9:21 AM | Link to this

Jerome the doctors can’t charge you less than the insurance charges unless they are doing it under the table. The insurance companies run our healthcare and that is a fact. I can’t believe people believe that they can go do any doctor they want to go to right now. If you use insurance they will tell you who you can see and who you can’t.

By Jerome

August 16, 2009 9:11 AM | Link to this

@Larry- Riddle me this then, why does it cost me more for the service if I do not have insurance. Sometimes as much as 10 times more for the same service based on bills and insurance statements from doctors and labs. Bottom line is that none of them are going to magically reduce their rates out of the kindness of their hearts even if the expense goes down. The Doctors that have their own practice might give some break, but the Hospitals and other associated businesses will bank it as profit and try to find a way to over charge you for the Que-tip the nurse dropped in your room or the scissors the doctor left in your stomach.

By experienced

August 16, 2009 9:07 AM | Link to this

The public does not have the information at hand on healthcare. The fear is the loss of control for their healthcare. Wake up people, the control for your healthcare is in the hands of the insurance companies, not the doctors and nurses. They determine what tests can be taken, when to have surgery and what is emergency over elective. Ask your insurance, is an appendectomy elective surgery, yes. If it ruptures, so what.

By Jerome

August 16, 2009 8:58 AM | Link to this

What I do not see in anyone talking about on either side of the isle are guarantees that the price will come down or the rate of increase will at least come down to be in line with inflation. The cost of health care in Ohio has risen at 8.5 times wages since 2000. I’m sure it will go up again this year when wages in Ohio are likely to contract due to the recession. We can’t afford this drain on our economy to continue.

By scooby do

August 16, 2009 8:58 AM | Link to this

I see some here that have actually had to use their healthcare and found it very lacking. Some think that they are not NOW making payments for illegal aliens in ER. Do you actually think they are not using the ER now and will start after healthcare passes? That this not getting billed and covered under the premiums you now pay in hidden cost, not unlike credit cards, auto insurance hides uninsured type of cost.

By Glus

August 16, 2009 8:23 AM | Link to this

Bottom line, I do not want the government or insurance companies between me and my doctor. I also do not want to pay for illegal aliens using the emergency room for their health care.

By Larry

August 16, 2009 8:07 AM | Link to this

I have talked to many doctors and they say the enemy is the insurance companies. They also say that if you could pay the full amount for an office call instead of the insurance that they could charge about $30.00 for an office call. They got to pay several individuals a salaries to take care of all the insurance stuff. There was a day when you seen a doctor and they were lucky to have a paid receptionists. If healthcare insurance were made illegal the cost of care would come down 85% or more. Doctors and hospitals could eliminate wide swaths of insurance soldiers on their premises. If the gov’t does take control of healthcare the doctors won’t have to wine about their high malpractice insurance. They don’t need it since they are working for the gov’t. They won’t have a need for all those people in the background tackling insurance problems either since that will be spelled out more clearly.

By brad

August 16, 2009 8:04 AM | Link to this

Now we face another scenario, my wife has endometriosis really bad. She has already had surgery twice. The first time she had over a two week recovery. Tests continue to show precancerous cells. Every month her periods are debilitating. The only cure for endometriosis is a hysterectomy. We asked her doctor to perform a hysterectomy, as we are finished having children and that will not only improve her quality of life, but also decrease her chance of further complications. The doctor agreed that would be the best course of action; however, she said the insurance companies require extensive coaxing in giving someone a hysterectomy at such a young age(she is 30). She said that she will have to write several letters and such and it will be a long process. Again, the decision is not between the doctor and patient. And I thought we got timely care in this country…I guess that is only when the insurance companies have no other choice than to approve the procedure.

By Steve

August 16, 2009 8:04 AM | Link to this

to Observer, you must not have been watching the committee hearings on Health Care. There was a lot of input from Republicans and many of their amendments were adopted.

By Larry

August 16, 2009 7:57 AM | Link to this

If the gov’t would make it law that businesses can’t off health insurance as a form of compensation that get the monkey off their back. An avg low deductible plan with a 1,000.00 out of pocket max costs about 1000-1500.00/month for a 4+ family plan. Now imagine if the company did not pay for that. Maybe the company could spread that new wealth on your paycheck on the hour. Probably not all of it but maybe half of it.

By brad

August 16, 2009 7:51 AM | Link to this

My twin daughters both had a single tooth that for some reason rotted at an early age(2). Same tooth on both girls, the rest of their teeth are perfect. We asked the dentist to pull the bad teeth and he said he could not pull the teeth at this age because of the complications it would cause later, so he said he would put crowns on them. In going through the preauthorization process, the insurance company told us they would not cover the anesthesia as it would be considered elective. The procedure was surgical and the doctor said there was no way to do it without anesthesia. After fighting with the insurance company, to which we pay a hefty premium, we ended up footing the anesthesia bill ourselves. Choices are not between patients and doctors, choices are being made by the insurance companies. They are in control.

By Larry

August 16, 2009 7:44 AM | Link to this

The only Republikan plan I hear is the one about their skyrocketing malpractice insurance rates going up because you have doctors leaving scissors in people. The fear of being sued keeps them honest so boo hoo. The other one for individuals like me to pay for my own plan across state lines, that is a croc as well. I guess these people don’t get it. People are filing bankruptcy because of bad kidneys or whatever because of health issues. The gov’t should pay for those kind of things not the individual. Catastrophic should be paid by the gov’t not sniffles in the emergency room. Furthermore we are already paying for all the illegals care now so what is the freaking difference putting it in the bill now.

By smoke & mirrors

August 16, 2009 7:39 AM | Link to this

Sorry Mike you sound like the people you are making accusations about. Closed minded,and not willing to listen to others opinions. i got news for you ..health care is not going to be free as you think. The government can’t run social security,medicare. They do create class warfare. When was the last time you worked for someone that made less money than you?

By mike

August 16, 2009 5:49 AM | Link to this

what a JOKE these are the idiots who voted bush in.their party had 8yrs in office and did not address this issue.if they had their way bush would of had social security in stock market and every one would be broke,we need CHANGE!!!this is a small group with a small mentality that does not want to see a good man suceed because of his race, and they call their selves christians what a JOKE

By earl

August 16, 2009 5:09 AM | Link to this

To Kevin at August 16, 2009 1:09 AM, Your ‘well rounded’ comment is noted. However, can you find a Democrat representative that is willing to talk about Health Care plan in public?

By fed up with tea party

August 16, 2009 2:25 AM | Link to this

Is there anywhere I can go to see the Republicans plan in writing. youtube just doesn’t cut it. You tea party people ever wonder who is paying for your parties. Follow the money and you will find the insurance industry is making fools of you.

By Kevin S.

August 16, 2009 1:09 AM | Link to this

So basically we’re going to have an “expert panel” consisting of industry people, a Republican doctor who ran against Tony Hall, a Republican representative and a wingnut radio talk show host. I’m not sure which side the hospitals have come down on in this debate, so you might have, at best, one person on the stage who isn’t opposed to the plan. Yeah, that sounds “well-rounded.”

By JUDI

August 16, 2009 1:01 AM | Link to this

The republicans have NO plan—-check for yourself. It’s the same old tactics they’ve used for 40 years. Don’t want to do anything to take away from the money they received from insurance lobbyists. Giving tax cuts to everybody on every occasion for every reason is their answer to everything. Just like their ” kill granny”, “socialist state”, rationing of healthcare, taking away medicare, losing your employer sponsored health insurance, and tea parties——all Baloney. What ever happened to rationality and common sense, people? Oh, I forgot—-there’s a BLACK guy in the White House…..

By Allie

August 15, 2009 11:43 PM | Link to this

MWM, How do you ‘know’ that conservatives and the GOP have no plan? Isn’t it possible that because most of the mainstream media is in Obama’s corner that they haven’t let the GOP’s plan come out? We do have a plan, the problem is getting it out there for people to hear it. It’s a pretty good one too and if you’d like to hear Sen. Orrin Hatch of Utah explain it on youtube,(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4J3DUL170A) you’ll notice that he’s explaining it with little ranting and raving. Finally,my friend is the son of a Canadian doctor and says that many Canadian doctors and their families come here for care because of the long waits and rationing done in Canada’s health care system. Where are they going to go when our system is just like theirs is? What about all the elderly or chronically ill? Care WILL be rationed because it’s rationed in EVERY government run health insurance system. As my friend said ‘We let government run health insurance happen to us in Canada. Don’t EVER let it happen to you in America.’

By Observer

August 15, 2009 11:33 PM | Link to this

The Republicans do have a plan, several in fact. the Democrats have steadfastly refused to listen or allow any input. The Democrats are lying through their teeth when they say the Republicans have no plan or ideas.

By Ethel S.

August 15, 2009 11:17 PM | Link to this

Good job, organizers of the Health Care Town Hall and you have an impressive list of speakers. Healthcare is a personal matter and so glad many people are getting involved in such a dialogue. Cannot even think of what our healthcare would be like if this current healthcare bill was rammed through Congress like BO and Congress wanted without a thorough discussion. Will not be able to make the meeting, but wanted to add one point and that is Medicare costs are going up and cannot be cut to fund coverage for others. Leave Medicare alone, we pay all that FICA taxes and that needs to stay with Medicare for payments to the doctors and hospitals. Still waiting for the first person in Congress or the WH to opt out of their government paid for health insurance and go into this plan that they think we are going to be so thrilled about. Have a good meeting!

By shoutandscream

August 15, 2009 10:26 PM | Link to this

The shout annd scream was anticipation of the of the crowd. I am disappointed in Buck for getting hiomself dragged into this. I will be there, did not give info about how to get in. Let see if they let me in ofr if the crowd has already been hand picked. Here is the question, do you think a citizen has a right to medical care in the US? I do think so. The current system came out of period following WWII when the gov’t froze wages and prices, fearing inflation. Employeers then said I can’t pay you more buty I can pay for your insurance. There are too many loopholes in the current system. I am not naive, and the whole topic concerns me greatly. I feel it should be like car insurance, you have to have it period. We are weathy nation, we overspend on health care, it ius crippling our ability to compete and a posting by critic talks about frustration getting a specialist for his brother who needs one. The local clincs for the uninsured, many who are hard working folks, low wages, are beyond capacity. The Cassano Clinic is not taking any new people, (It is run/owned by Kettering Medical)Others go begging for staff to volunteer. How about some hospitals putting in some people to help with at least basic care. Very complicated topic. But doing nothing is no option. The staus quo is bad for everyone. Fact: Harry Truman wanted it, Teddy Rooselvelt wanted it as did Bill Clinton. Did you know that Richard Nixon (who I like, he was much better than history will admit) propsed universal health care. Who shot it down? The democracts. Politics. What do we have now? Politics. Bucks I love you buddy (I do enjoy his radio program and yes I listen to WBZI so I guess I am a hillbilly too), but I hope this is not some dog and pony political hack show you got yourself roped into.

By Chris

August 15, 2009 10:25 PM | Link to this

Lets face it folks, what we have now is not working and so kudos to the powers that be to want to change it instead of griping about it all of the time. My son hurt his knee in Feb, he didn’t have insurance but interesting…when we were “self pay” he got a discount of almost 1/2 from most of the places he went..so wouldn’t you say the health care system is overcharging the insurance company and in turn we are paying the price? Come on people..don’t get afraid, get involved because we all deserve excellent health care-are we saying that the health care systems don’t work in England and Canada? Watch the movie Sicko and maybe you will change your mind—I truly believe that there needs to be a change-it is long overdue. and as for dual tests lets go further and talk about kickbacks for the drugs that are being prescribed..pathetic-And as for MTS…have some respect for a man that DOES want to make a change, finally I think that we have someone who really cares.

By HKettlehake

August 15, 2009 10:24 PM | Link to this

“Seniors on Medicare are the only group who have paid for their “government” healthcare. Every week for 40+ years the fees have been deducted from their paychecks. Some still continue to work and pay. No one else who is now slated to get government healthcare before they attain the age of 65 has paid their total as yet— yet the Seniors are the ones being targeted — How? If you add non-Seniors to Medicare you steal the money they paid into the trust fund. If you reduce the monies available to Medicare recipients you steal even more money from the trust fund. The poor are covered by Medicaid — If there is another group that our government feels now deserves Medicare-like healthcare — fund a separate program. Why dilute Medicare? Why change my and my family’s health care? If diluting is not a problem, why don’t we just appoint another President to share power — or double the number of representatives who will share the offices and staffs of the present Capitol Hill residents. Stupid right? Dilution is not the answer. Forget modifying HR3200 — Abandon it and get on to something else. Totally focus on solving the recession. My bet is that every single Congressperson who would vote for that bill in any form will be voted out of office in 2010. It’s just political stupidity — what the heck happened to the Democratic Party that so brilliantly engineered the takeover of the government.”

By critic

August 15, 2009 9:42 PM | Link to this

As a father of eight who has one chemo treatment left I am scaired to death of this bill. My brother who has had two strokes, and is on medicaid, has been waiting four months to see a neurologist. So while it is a shame that some people can’t get insurance, I wouldn’t be willing to put my hopes in the government doing anything that remotely resembles a decent health care plan.

By critic

August 15, 2009 9:42 PM | Link to this

As a father of eight who has one chemo treatment left I am scaired to death of this bill. My brother who has had two strokes, and is on medicaid, has been waiting four months to see a neurologist. So why it is a shame that some people can’t get insurance, I wouldn’t be willing to put my hopes in the government doing anything that remotely resembles a decent health care plan.

By mwm

August 15, 2009 9:37 PM | Link to this

As stated, the “conservatives” and GOP have NO plan. They just gather and rant. With no options for the table. We do need health care reform and it will probably be a combination of private and public insurance, a clamp down on the health insurance industry and affordable options available for the uninsured. The “gathering” at Mandalay is “more of the same” rants with no viable ideas.

By Stephen Mann

August 15, 2009 8:43 PM | Link to this

The system could be tweaked, but not turned over to the feds. And yes, Congress has better health care then we do, and that’s wrong, but its because THEY exempt themselves from the system because they know how bad it will be, just like they exempt themselves from paying into Social Security. When Congress creates a system that they themselves will use, then I will listen.

By lastmanstanding

August 15, 2009 8:26 PM | Link to this

shoutandscream: Why don’t you attend the town hall instead of making presumptions? Oh that’s right, we should just get out of the way and let Pres. Obama fix the problem. How stupid of me to think that reasonable men can’t have honest disagreements and do what is right for all American citizens. When you are finished worshipping your political tribal leader, come back to the table. Conservatives are willing to listen and come to a consensus, but not be told to sit down and shut up. King George told us the same thing once. American citizens stood up to tyranny then, we will do it NOW.

By shoutandscream

August 15, 2009 7:50 PM | Link to this

A right wing radio head who’s web site links to the John Birch society, an assorted bunch of conservatives, a hospital special interest and former chamber mouth peice (the chambers oppose all health reform, including treating children with autism)- Something to think about for you moms and dads, an insurance agent, and a newly minted state rep who still needs a map to get around Columbus. Who is paying the bill to rent the banquet hall? Who is paying the radio guy to talk? Mandalay is not free. ProduceNet TV who are they and what is their point of view. Can anyone attend or is it an advocay rally for people who all agree with each other? How about having a person from the Kettering Cassono CLinic, or Reachout (WSU)or a patient who can’t get care? A person with a pre-ex that can’t get insurance? Will they be there?

By lots of smoke

August 15, 2009 7:14 PM | Link to this

What worrys me is all the talk, it is scary. Everybody is making so many assumpotins on both sides. Jann SPrag has a good point. Have you expierenced or has anyone youi know expierenced an unneeded or duplicated medical test? I did not think so. On the other hand not insuring the uninsured, the poor, and no medicaid dosn’t come close, is expensive and wrong. Straight talk, don’t expect to see any anyplace. I am not sure about the pannel ,an insurance agent, an uninoformed politican, health care lobbyist, but on the other side, more of the same. No wonder people are upset. They should be. The status quo is bad and change? At least at the Mandalay there is a chance that the bar will be open. Expect more politics than health.

By thatsthe point

August 15, 2009 7:10 PM | Link to this

Thats the point Jane Spragg, the gov. run medicare stops duplicate tests. But the private ins. company’s do not. The dr’s send you to a friend for the same test. I had a dr. try that just a few months ago, had to argue with the receptionest till I told her I didn’t have ins. to cover that. She said ok, goodbye! HAHA not really funny.

By mwm

August 15, 2009 7:01 PM | Link to this

The FEHB seems to work rather well. And, it should be opened up to all. The VA is an excellent system and, yes, most veterans I have talked to are pleased with their service and care. It is quite obvious that some government entities are not efficient. The Bush administration is an example of poor management. And, Obama will do much better; and he already is. At this time in history, we do need some government intervention. Free market and some social programs should work side by side.

By Philman

August 15, 2009 6:49 PM | Link to this

MWN you are correct we need to fine tune our system, but we do not need to turn it ALL over to the GOVT., to run after all they have RUINED Social security, Medicare, the Postal service, ask any vetran if he looks forward to going to the VA. thats govt. healthcare. can you think of anything they can run & run efficiently???

By mwm

August 15, 2009 6:41 PM | Link to this

It is time for health care reform. The health care insurance industry and lobbyists are out to stop their industry from being scrutinized; When health providers, ie doctors, have to do the insurance dance in order to get care for their patients, there is a problem. When insurance claims “admin assistants” and non-professionals are dictating the care, testing, procedures and medications that people receive, there is a problem. When said individuals consistently deny claims on first pass and a business practice, there is a problem. When members of congress are courted by health insurance and pharmaceutical industry lobbyists, who also finance campaigns, there are problems. When members of congress have better health insurance than most American workers, there are problems. When people are unemployed and cannot afford COBRA. or have to choose between COBRA and eating or having a place to live, there are problems. When most people go through bankruptcy due to medical bills and being under-insured, There is a problem. Yes, we do need health care reform. Specifically, we need affordable health care for all. And, the GOP has no plans to help American citizens.

By Barry

August 15, 2009 6:39 PM | Link to this

So riddle me this Batman, when the government takes over health care and turns Doctors into over worked and under paid public servants you really expect to get better health care? (the House bill will limit DR. salaries, I haven’t read the Senate bill yet). Second question, when you retire are you going to quietly let the government cut you off like they send old horses to the glue factory? Limited appeal process, no judicial review, unlimited warrant-less IRS access to all of your financial records and all your employer’s financial records. Its in there, read the Bill

By MTS

August 15, 2009 6:09 PM | Link to this

Jane… no, you are not the one who is stupid. I will give to one guess who is. The silver tongued orator…. O’ whoose yo mamma ‘bama! Socailist-Facist

By Healthcare Professional

August 15, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this

Jane - Congrats on taking responsibility for being actively involved in your healthcare. Unfortunately, the majority of Americans are not that engaged or willing to say no to a second test. Many patients who rely on traditional healthcare insurers - must or are encouraged to seek a second opinion before undergoing a major procedure. Jane - not to worry, this whole healthcare debate has yet to focus on entitlement programs like medicare - and thanks to the lobbyist - it isn’t likely to anytime soon.

By Jane Spragg

August 15, 2009 5:29 PM | Link to this

I am on Medicare and the president keeps saying he wants to stop duplicate tests. Does he think we are stupid or what. If two dr’s ask for the same test I speak up and let them know I already had that test done and anyway Medicare will not pay for duplicate tests. They wil deny the claim. Why does he keep saying this when it is not true. We are not stupid. Medicare keeps a close tract on this. Why would I want to go thru the test twice.