I have commented before on the health care reform effort, and my skeptical view on the eventual outcome of this legislation. I am still skeptical.
I know, it's not finished yet, and our work is still not done. What is being reported in the news today though makes me wonder if we lost. The reason? The insurance mandate. Everyone is required 'to purchase' insurance.
I am unemployed and have been for 6 months. It could be another 6 before I get a job. I cannot afford premiums, unless it costs very little. Granted, this won't take affect for years to come, but what will happen to people who are already on shaky ground? When your income drops to zero, will your premium drop as well? Will it go into arrears?
I am afraid all that's been done is simply shifted the lobbyists' focus from no reform to rate hikes. Rate hikes not determined by 'the invisible hand of the free market', but those put in legislation by representatives who never have given a damn about the citizens from their first days in office.
Sorry to be a pessimist. But logistics is my area of expertise. While I am not scared by the right wing echo machine's scare tactics, I am definitely concerned about what can be changed in short order by an elected few who don't give a damn about the best interests of the sick, the elderly, the homeless, the unemployed, or the rest of us.
Please tell me your thoughts on the matter.