Help Me Understand Why There Is Even a Debate on Healthcare Reform?

So, these are the typical arguments from those who oppose healthcare reform.

1. "The government is going to step between me and my doctor."
2. Or, "The government is going to kill my grandmother."
3. Or, "I don't want socialism." "What insurance do you have?" "I have Medicare." And if these people are on Medicare and know that it is a completely government run program, therefore socialistic, "Don't mess with Medicare. I don't want Medicare to run out of money because I need Medicare."

Here are my responses.
1. No conscionable doctor will divulge personal information about you. If you can't trust your doctor, and you don't trust the government, well, you can't trust anyone. If you are on a private health insurance policy, do you trust that insurance company, whose sole purpose is to make money, more than the government?
2. Now where did this come from? End of life counseling is not a death panel. If there is one, that would be the insurance companies that operate now who decide what procedures are covered and which one are not. I trust these people less than my government. The government is there if I need protection. Private companies, only if they are paid.
3. Medicare is a completely government run program that is there for those who would otherwise be rejected by ALL private health insurance companies. How would they ever get health insurance? If you are past 65, chances are that you have chronic ailments. Drugs to take everyday. You may supplement with private health insurance, but Medicare becomes your primary health insurance policy. So, don't be selfish and let others have that option too.

Here is an article from the Los Angeles Times that illustrates why we need healthcare reform in this country. And why there has to be a safety net for those who, for reasons beyond their control, cannot get healthcare. I don't see the difference in the need for medical attention between these people and those over 65.



A country trying to take care of its citizens who cannot take care of themselves is not socialism. It is good government.