Health Care Reform Update: The House Democrats’ Proposal

I am home for two days, between one of those non-relaxing, hectic vacations and heading off to D.C. to lobby for health care reform (see Karen Metcalf’s post from last Thursday to find out about our trip).

Although I wasn’t able to keep up with fast-unfolding events in Washington, I know that the House Democrats did release a draft bill representing the work of three House committees. You can read a summary of the bill and the actual 852 page draft discussion bill at Congressman Bruce Braley’s website (click on Issues and then Healthcare).

The New York Times has an article about the proposal. They bring up the high cost of the proposal (there are no cost estimates yet) and Republican objections based on cost (as well as other objections, of course). Why can’t we just say we’ll get the money from the same place as the defense contractors get their money? When it is for the military or waging war, we can spend money the government doesn’t have, so why can’t we do the same for health care? Yes, I realize this isn’t a long term solution, but once people see their personal health care costs go down, maybe they will be willing to support government health care spending with their tax dollars, just like they support military spending.

We’ll say “hi” to your Representatives and Senators while we are in D.C., but there is no substitute for a phone call or letter from you! Thank your House Democrats for including a robust public plan option, and tell your House Republicans you want them to support it, too!

Alta
Price is a physician practicing Pathology in Davenport, Iowa. One of
the original Deaniacs, she stays involved with Democracy for America,
Iowa, and the Quad Cities. She advocates for quality, affordable health
care for all, primarily as a volunteer with Progressive Action for the
Common Good (Health Care Reform Issue Forum).  Watch for Dr. Price's Health Care Reform Update every Tuesday here on Blog for Iowa.  E-Mail Alta Price