Bold but not Reform

This week's health-care summit is an opportunity for both parties to open dialog on one of the most significant issues that has ever faced America. President Obama's decision to merge the bills from the house and the senate is a bold one in the face of rising political protest from republicans. Media reports of reconciliation to push reform through without 60 votes suggests an even greater political divide on this issue. Republican Thaddeus McCotter has labeled the summit the Sham wow summit likening it to an infomercial. This is truly insulting to the American people. Even those content with their health care have some empathy and understanding that reform is required and fellow Americans are suffering.

The one thing republicans are right about however is that proposed health-care reform needs to be revisited. Regulation of the insurance industry as put forth by the president is not reform especially if legislation ignores preexisting conditions. Mandating everyone to have insurance without a public option is not reform either.These measures are in an effort to address the concerns of insured Americans. But those Americans that have health care aren't worried that reform will affect their insurance, they are concerned that it will affect their health care. I hope the summit addresses the difference. It's not insurance companies that provide the care.

By Kathy-Ellen Kups  |  February 25, 2010; 12:16 AM ET Save & Share:                 
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