My main intention in posting my “blueprint” is to generate a “real” conversation amongst people to first understand what our health care system is, how it got there, & to address the issues with “reason,” instead of simple “slogans.”
The health care system to which we have grown accustomed is about to implode; regardless if ObamaCare is actually implemented. Just re-electing Republicans to majority status isn’t going to fix it. Remember, it was a Republican President, Republican Senate, and Republican House that gave us the fiscal monstrosity of Medicare Part D in December, 2003.
At least half of all employers that currently offer health plans to employees would dump them in a heartbeat. Where would each of you fit into a new system, if “free market” principles rein supreme? If you’re a smoker, over 40, and on any meds, you’re declined! If you’ve had history of any heart issues, including high cholesterol or high blood pressure, if you’re diabetic, or used anti-depressants; sorry, you’re probably declined. That’s the free marketplace! Enjoy the “risk pool” coverage in your individual state.
The day isn’t that far off when you’ll spend an entire day in the ER waiting to be treated. Live in the countryside, need a quick ambulance/chopper ride for emergency care? Good luck in the future!
As far as individual suggestions contained in my “blueprint,” it’s all up for debate. I do have real world experience, though, in trying to structure a “benefits plan” for people looking for basic coverage. It has been a long battle just trying to help people understand the value of a health savings account. How much to charge for premium, who will subsidize part of our population, let the “numbers crunchers” weigh in!
I’ve tried to put together a workable solution to begin the dismantling of government bureaucracy in our lives. It’s not going to be free, though. For all of you small government “purists,” who think that “only” free market solutions are the answer, come up with your own solutions for our country, not just a philosophical argument that doesn’t translate to our current real world. It’s not that simple!