My new goal: health care reform

My new personal goal is to learn as much about health care reform as possible. I've found a lot of interesting perspectives on NPR. Here is a series from Talk of the Nation and I think that everyone who gets a chance should listen to the podcasts.

Are Health Insurance Companies The Problem?
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=106853465

Are Patients The Problem?
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=106550388

Are Doctors The Problem with Health Care?
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=105481744

Here is a link to many stories that have been on NPR about Health Care Reform:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=106180134

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health Reform page:
http://www.rwjf.org/healthreform/

Here is something that you should know-insurance companies can cancel your insurance at any time-if you have an individual policy (this doesn't affect people who have insurance through their employer or in group policies). It's called recision. Even though this might not affect you, it could affect someone you care about and it will happen when they need their coverage the most. At least 19,000 people's policies were rescinded between 2005 and 2007. This is not the only reason that I think that private insurance isn't the best system for our country, but it's one of them.

I really encourage everyone to find out more about the situation of health care in our country before making rash judgements based on what you hear on TV news soundbytes. It's everyone's responsibility to weigh in on the debate. It's clear that we need change in our system. If you're unwilling to learn about the current situation and the options for moving forward, you shouldn't complain about the system that gets put in place!

Once you form an opinion, you need to contact your legislators and let them know what you think. Here's a link that will help you find out who your representative is: http://www.house.gov/house/MemberWWW_by_State.shtml
You just need to click on your state to find Reps for your state. Click on their names to go to their websites, then contact them and tell them your opinion. It's a small responsibility people and it's a part of living in a democracy! I also urge you to think compassionately about this issue. Good health and insurance coverage shouldn't be just for the rich and middle class.

I hope that you take my challenge and learn more about health care reform and voice your opinion now while it really matters!

Remember, your health won't last forever. I hope you have insurance or a huge savings account when that happens.