Its really amazing how desperate the insurance companies must be to squelch discussion of the many compelling arguments for free single payer healthcare for all. Unfortunately, they don't have much in the way of evidence they can point to showing successes for their experimental "public option".
Single Payer has a proven track record- its drastically improved quality and affordability in many nations, "public option" whatever it is - cannot be ascertained. Until we have specifics, it remains fiscally questionable-a big unknown.It is implied thatan experimental public option(s?) might be able to control costs enough to result in improvements in affordability and patient care. But, are we to take that on faith? They tried that first but it didn't work. Now, they are pointing to Massachusetts..
Over the next few weeks, again and again we will hear them attempting to put a positive spin on the fiasco that has happened in Massachusetts.
They shouldn't be. Its not working for many people, including many chronically ill who remain uninsured. <strike>And Massachusetts basic plans do not cover prescription drugs</strike>
As of January 1, 2009, MA. residents are required to purchase new plans that include at least a minimal level of outpatient prescription drug coverage. This can add substantially to the plans cost.
and prices for prescriptions have jumped. Many people who could afford drugs for years now find that they cannot afford BOTH the mandated insurance and them. (they probably mean co pays now) Massachusetts health care is in a state of crisis. This illustrates how futile it is attempting to rescue the dysfunctional insurance system with a public option. Instead, we should not resuscitate.
Recently, a great many Massachusetts doctors have sent letters to President Obama asking him to NOT use them as a model for any national health care reform, because patient care has suffered there due to the emphasis on mandated insurance at the expense of essentials like prescription drugs and access to clinics.
Please follow the links below to read more..
"Massachusetts Is No Model for National Health Care Reform Public Interest Groups Urge Sen. Kennedy to Introduce Single-Payer
Health Reform Lessons from Massachusetts, Part II
Read the PNHP report, "Massachusetts' Plan: A Failed Model for Health Care Reform.
letter to Sen. Kennedy.
labor letter to Pres. Barack Obama.
stories from Massachusetts patients.
Recommended links:
Where Will the Money Come From?
(This is why we desperately need single payer! We need the cost savings and improved care and cost control it offers)
Where Will the Money Come From Redux
(Part II)
Trudy Lieberman is a leading health care journalist who has been speaking truth to power on the health care mess- Interviewing many
voices excluded
from the
scripted "debate" on health care
Please follow the links below to read more..
Massachusetts Is No Model for National Health Care Reform
Public Interest Groups Urge Sen. Kennedy to Introduce Single-Payer
Health Reform Lessons from Massachusetts, Part II
Read the PNHP report, "Massachusetts' Plan: A Failed Model for Health Care Reform.
letter to Sen. Kennedy.
labor letter to Pres. Barack Obama.
stories from Massachusetts patients.