As the Supreme Court contemplates whether it is Constitutional for the Federal Government to mandate (force) all US citizens to have health insurance or face fines, we have to ask ourselves if this is a road we want to go down.

Do I want the government telling me what to do? If the government forces me to get health insurance, what’s next? Dental insurance? Long-term care insurance? Individual unemployment insurance?

As a proponent for less government in our lives, you would think I would be against this part of the Affordable Healthcare Act. Yet, I understand the need for individuals taking responsibility for their own life, which includes their own healthcare. A healthy, young adult may not see a need to pay for health coverage… money better spent on the newest cell phone, or car. But what happens when that same healthy, young adult is diagnosed with life threatening cancer? Is he/she prepared to pay for the costly, life-saving treatment? Now the question becomes, who, if anyone, should pay for his/her cancer treatment so they can live to buy the next new cell phone or car?

Maybe we should have all those that Opt-Out of purchasing healthcare insurance sign a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) form that kicks in once their own personal funds are depleted. Then their loved ones can stand by their bedside and watch them die…. and say, “This is what he/she wanted.”

Then there is the question of the Opt-Out’s children. They had no choice in the matter. Should they be denied health coverage just because dad wanted that new car or that 4G unlimited cell phone plan?

Because our health is the most valuable thing we have… and should be protected regardless of our income or station in life… shouldn’t our society have some plan in effect to protect everyone and provide life saving care to everyone? Wait… we do have a plan. It basically says, if you do not have insurance – even if you have that cool phone with the 4G unlimited plan, and drive that nice shiny car – we will provide medical care for you… so don’t worry. We may not be able to give you a private room, but you will receive treatment in most cases. Don’t worry about the cost, your neighbor driving that 10 year old car and doesn’t own a cell phone will help pay for your care.

Or, you have the deadbeat that would rather purchase more beer than pay a health insurance premium. Their IQ may be so low they don’t understand the need for insurance. Plus, they have been raised without it and know they get it free at the emergency room.

So, just maybe, when it comes to healthcare… if we really feel everyone should have access to it… just maybe it should be made mandatory to pay your fair share. If you can not afford it, we (the government) have programs to help you. The Affordable Healthcare Act have these provisions built in. This bill addresses the problem of the deadbeats that rely on others to provide their healtcare. It says, “No more handouts. It is time you pay your own way.” Where the bill falls short, is it does not address the double digit rise in healthcare costs. For true healthcare reform, we need an equitable plan that addresses these costs.

We can start with tort reform and curtailing frivolous lawsuits.

 

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