Hello everyone, this is my first diary. If I make mistakes or need edits, feel free.
I have been following the health care legislation and blogosphere on the different options being considered.
Today I really wanted to know how things were going with Rep. Weiner's Single Payer (HR 676) amendment in the Health Subcommittee. This is under Waxman and is chaired by Frank Pallone.
Google, and even Rep. Weiner's site did not answer my questions, so I called them. Even though I am nowhere near his district, I had a pleasant and informative chat with an intern at the end of his day. I told him I just didn't want to get depressed with all the talk about doom to health care reform, so how are things going?
Here are some things I heard and learned.
First of all, he did not mind that I called even though I am not even in his state. He said this legislation is nationally important. He said they feel in his congressman's office that any committee member dealing with national issues should be willing to take information and opinion from citizens. He did say they pay special attention to their constituents and that we should try to call people we know in Queens, to let them know how important it is to contact Rep. Weiner's office. Same for Frank Pallone and ultimately, Henry Waxman.
Then he suggested that I read Rep. Weiner's op ed written for Politico, which I have done. He is direct and clear. He is a leader on health care issues. If only more would read and listen.
OP ED Here
Then he said there is a You Tube video, that really displays Rep. Weiner's passion for the subject. I have watched it and I agree.
What have insurance companies done for you?
I know it's Friday evening: the op ed and video are quite quick.
So I have wavered from Single Payer, to Public Option and back again. Since no one can say that the Public Option is like Medicare for All, and since it seems no matter how far back the Dems go to give up pieces of the legislation, the answer is going to be NO...I am squarely in the Single Payer camp.
And where is this amendment? Stuck right now. Hasn't moved, no committee vote. But as you can see from what Rep. Weiner has written and said, he is showing us what should be done. I think he is right. I also think many would catch the energy of these ideas if we could tip it. Energy is what will move the people who are being frightened. He said they are getting a lot of calls from district members who think they will lose: choice, money, access and yes, medical care with these bills.
His intern suggested we all write and call, especially if any members of these committees are from our state. If not call anyway. Find someone we know in their district to call or write.
I have thought a lot about the different groups and factions struggling to put energy and focus on health care reform. I hope this doesn't sound, oh I don't know, too progressive. But, I think we are all on the right side of this issue. Everyone contributing to this idea of reform in whatever form: listen to this new passionate voice. Then make your calls.
Thank you to everyone who works on these issues: SteveB, NYCEve, Slinkerwink, Andiamo, DrAaron, MCJoan and so many others. You lead the way for us all.