Letter: Everyone should have health care
In my condo, I’m required to have a level of liability insurance. Can’t live where I do without it. I’m required by the state to have car insurance and a driver’s license.
It’s obvious to me that health care should be the same way. Everyone should have it, and those who can’t pay should get government help. Self-interest demands it, because it will be cheaper for all if everyone is covered.
Those who can pay must pay. Those who need subsidies must get them. If everyone gets preventive care, timely care, people will live healthier lives, which lowers costs.
How can we possibly afford this? First, the insurance provider will negotiate drug costs, currently illegal, and service costs.
Our health care costs are double what other wealthy countries pay. But life expectancy is higher in 30 other countries. Their people pay less to live longer! Our status at number 31 on Wikipedia’s list is shameful.
We can lower the cost per patient if everyone is covered. Those who can afford extra insurance could still buy it, but a basic level would be provided to all and at a nationally negotiated price.
The result will be a healthier America.
James Thielman, Richland
This story was originally published August 2, 2017 at 1:25 PM with the headline "Letter: Everyone should have health care."