I came across an article in the New York Times that really got me thinking. As time goes on more and more options for the health care reform are being presented. Most recently Democratic Senator Max Baucus composed a new plan. The plan includes an option for more affordable insurance for those 25 and younger that would only cover the costs of "catastrophic illnesses" and also allows for to a limited Medicaid coverage to millions who need it but aren't eligible now. He also includes nonprofit member-owned insurance cooperatives as opposed to a government run public option. The article goes on to say that, the president is still expected to present the public option as his preferred way to fix the health care system, however, he's also said that reform should not be hinged on its inclusion. I find something about this statement very unsettling. As a leader, if it is your opinion that the public option is necessary then stick to that and continue to support it whether you have the minority or the majority against it. I feel that too often too much is compromised in an effort to please everyone. As a leader, it is the president's job to continue to fight for a system that works for citizens, and if insurance companies are upset by competition then so be it, because the United States is about fairness and competition. The best decision needs to be made; and while the president does not have total control over what decision is made, he should use his entire influence to support that best decision, because "it is pretty darn hard to put together something that is satisfying to enough people".
article found at:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/08/health/policy/08health.html
I agree with your view wholeheartedly. President Obama should stand by his opinion. You can't please everyone. I feel like all I hear about the public option is talk that something must be done. But, when are people going to stop talking and start to do something (I understand it's easier said than done, but still). I think a public option is a good idea and a little competition for insurance companies would make things a little more fair.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with your blog post Brandi. The public option plan was initially suggested because President Obama evidently felt this was a good way to fix our healthcare system, so regardless of how the public is reacting to his decision he should still stand on it. In reality, President Obama has the final say on whatever he decides, he's the person that will push the bill through, and he's the person that will have the final say. There will always be non-supporters of whatever he plans to do during his term, so even if it takes just a few people to agree with his actions he should stick with the few that's in accordance with his plan and continue on with what he feels is best for the country.
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