America's Hospitals Can't Afford Healthcare Cuts Obama, Congress Are Considering
They're suffering already
Reader Comments
Change we may not need
Maybe Obama should stop trying to be all things to all of his contributors and just enjoy his spot in history, brush up on economics and jettison the idea of redistributing my wealth. I already volunteer and give to charity. Will you folks do some real reporting? Is it true that out of this 46 million number being bandied about that a majority of these "uninsured" are rich people who pay cash for medical services, "undocumented workers" on payrolls probably illegally (can't ask but we can count them), and students who most likely get coverage through their colleges or parents plan if necessary (up to age 22, I think) thus bringing the number more around 10 million? You don't disrupt a country, jeopardising good healthcare plans for those who have it for 10,000 people. Last time I looked there were still onlines medical plans. Give up the Wii and expanded cable and get an online health care plan. Google it.
If all are insured, hospitals will have relief
Disproportionate Share hospital programs would not be as needed if healthcare reform covers the uninsured. If all hospitals get paid for all who need care, then this type of government spending will be cut and insurance payments for insured patients will replace it. Thus - no net loss.
Your article emphasizes the fact that rform is needed right away. We cannot afford to wait another minute.
Some business models will have to change, and sources of funds will as well. Also - government purchasing of medications and supplies in bulk could create significant savings.
All over Europe, Australia, Canada, Japan and other parts of Asia and Latin America there are various forms of government health insurance and programs that provide services to every citizen. In those countries there is no such thing as a medical bankruptcy in those places. No one has to choose between paying their rent and paying for their pills.
Per the WHO, this country ranks 37th in the world regarding healthcare, infant mortality and length of life. That is an embarassment considering our wealth and economy.
Rank Country
1 France
2 Italy
3 San Marino
4 Andorra
5 Malta
6 Singapore
7 Spain
8 Oman
9 Austria
10 Japan
11 Norway
12 Portugal
13 Monaco
14 Greece
15 Iceland
16 Luxembourg
17 Netherlands
18 United Kingdom
19 Ireland
20 Switzerland
21 Belgium
22 Colombia
23 Sweden
24 Cyprus
25 Germany
26 Saudi Arabia
27 United Arab Emirates
28 Israel
29 Morocco
30 Canada
31 Finland
32 Australia
33 Chile
34 Denmark
35 Dominica
36 Costa Rica
37 United States of America
We have to fix this. Or do you want to have a system that is less effective than the healthcare system in Costa Rica????
