VOICE OF THE PEOPLE | Nov. 3

Too many people have no insurance

I have heard varying opinions on the much-needed health insurance reform. I think almost everyone agrees that reform is needed, but no one seems to want the government to do it. I'm not aware of anyone else in the country who could do it other than the federal government.

I see extremely angry protesters on the news carrying signs, screaming, arguing and even fighting over this issue. I have heard a lot of these protesters say that they don't want changes. These people who don't want any changes should be allowed to keep what they have.

However, for those of us who do want change, there should be viable choices, including a public option. The public option should be just that — optional. Everyone knows that competition will bring costs down. I pay $550 per month for insurance for my wife and me. We both have been to the doctor several times this year, and into the 10th month of the year, the insurance has not paid one dime on any bills other than some prescription antibiotics.

There are many, many people who don't have insurance at all because of the high cost. Emergency rooms are full of non-emergencies, in most cases, just because it's the only place uninsured people can go if they don't have any money, and the taxpayers end up paying the bill anyway. Hospitals don't just absorb these costs. Many people do not have insurance because the places where they work can't afford to offer it, and they can't afford to spend $500 per month out of pocket to purchase it on their own.

Nothing is sadder than seeing someone who is sick and has to remain that way because of medical costs. My own mother is in a nursing home with Alzheimer's disease. The cost of the nursing home is nearly $60,000 per year, just for room and board. A Hospice service goes in twice a week to bathe her, help feed her and generally keep an eye on her physical health. This service costs nearly $800 per week in addition to the nursing home charge. Yet another separate charge is in place for her laundry, and all she does is go from the bed to a chair, then back to bed at night. She is basically immobile.

Everyone in the U.S. needs affordable medical care. I know that medical research is very expensive, but I do believe some costs are ridiculously high and could come down. For instance, a month's supply of Ambien can cost more than $1,000, just for 30 pills.

My dad told me the story of him getting a doctor's bill after a minor procedure for $169 just for a consultation fee. He called the doctor's office, talked to them about the bill and told them the doctor did not consult with him. The nurse said, “Did the doctor not speak to you after the procedure?” My dad said, “Yes, he opened the door and asked me if I felt OK, then left.” She stated that was the consulation. I commend the government for at least making an effort to effect change. At least a conversation has begun.

At least there is hope for reform in the near future. The first version will, no doubt, need changes as time goes by, but there will never be an end result unless there is a beginning.

Ken Merritt

York