Well much to my surprise, Congress passed the Health Care Bill, twice. First with the Senate Democrat behind closed door deals and the second time, hopefully, with less of the backroom deals.
Now President Obama is out selling the legislation - something he should have been doing right from the start. Maybe if he and the Democrats had been clear and precise during the town hall meetings about the context of the bill there would be a lot less tension.
Of course the Republicans want to repeal/reform the bill. Why they did not work on the reform while the bill was in committee is beyond me. Well maybe not. After all, elections are on the horizon and its better to be a stronger opponent of the other party, rather than seen as a compromiser working for the good of the people.
Today Sarah Palin and the Tea Party descend on Searchlight Nevada to harass the home community of Senator Harry Reid. These people did nothing wrong and should not be punished by an invasion.
Now we can sit back and watch as the campaign rhetoric increases and the TV pundits tell us who is right and wrong.
We will also see how the immediate action parts of the Health Care Bill take effect and if they are everything that is promised.
As I have said in the past - they are all wrong. We need term limits and we definitely need to get rid of the incumbents and start at square one.
Pay careful attention to what is doing on and get ready to vote in November.
Its Common Sense!!
Showing posts with label Health Care Reform. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Health Care Reform. Show all posts
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Monday, February 22, 2010
Partisan Politics
The past days I have watched the politicians in Washington DC state that they know what the American people want. If you are a Democrat you state the people want Health Care Reform. If you are a Republican you state that the people want a gradual change.
Who are the American people they are talking to? I know no one has asked my opinion.
Frankly I am tired of the gridlock and the blame game. When will these folks get around to compromising. They all seem to have sticks shoved so far up their butts that they are incapable of bending.
This coming Thursday the President has invited both parties to a televised sit down to discuss Health Care Reform. In truth I expect nothing to come out of it, but it will be interesting to see what tactics are taken so that none of them look bad or insensitive. Health Care Reform is long way away, but lying, whining politicians will always be with us.
I see that the Senate did pass a bill to help jobs but that a majority of Republicans complained that the bill did not cut enough taxes. I don't like paying taxes anymore than the next person, but just how are we going to pay off the national debt, balance the budget and leave a future for our kids if we all don't pitch in? The money to run the country has to come from somewhere and red money from China needs to end.
Once again I want to reiterate a chant I make from time to time - Vote all Incumbents OUT!!!
Its Common Sense!
Who are the American people they are talking to? I know no one has asked my opinion.
Frankly I am tired of the gridlock and the blame game. When will these folks get around to compromising. They all seem to have sticks shoved so far up their butts that they are incapable of bending.
This coming Thursday the President has invited both parties to a televised sit down to discuss Health Care Reform. In truth I expect nothing to come out of it, but it will be interesting to see what tactics are taken so that none of them look bad or insensitive. Health Care Reform is long way away, but lying, whining politicians will always be with us.
I see that the Senate did pass a bill to help jobs but that a majority of Republicans complained that the bill did not cut enough taxes. I don't like paying taxes anymore than the next person, but just how are we going to pay off the national debt, balance the budget and leave a future for our kids if we all don't pitch in? The money to run the country has to come from somewhere and red money from China needs to end.
Once again I want to reiterate a chant I make from time to time - Vote all Incumbents OUT!!!
Its Common Sense!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Senator Ben Cardin on Health Care Reform
Senator Ben Cardin of Maryland, one of my state's US Senators sent the following response to my concerns about Health Care Reform and especially fraud in the Medicare Program. Please note how he avoided any mention of the word fraud.
Maybe if you are a fraud you can't recognize it in others.
Here's the letter, I found it disappointing, uninformative and very pro-party.
See what you think.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for contacting me about Medicare and health reform. The Medicare program has dramatically improved the lives of millions of American seniors and persons with disabilities since its creation in 1965. I am committed to protecting and strengthening this critical program.
Reforming our health care system will strengthen Medicare. The Senate health reform bill, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, would protect Medicare's guaranteed benefits, ensure that Medicare savings are used to improve the program, and extend Medicare solvency. It would also reduce costs and strengthen benefits for seniors by drastically reducing the "donut hole" in prescription drug coverage, and eliminating cost-sharing for preventive services. Furthermore, the bill includes measures that would ensure that seniors living in rural areas have access to inpatient, outpatient, ambulance and lab services, and would create a competitive bidding process for Medicare Advantage plans to reduce overpayments, which the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates total $150 billion over 10 years.
On December 24, 2009, the Senate passed H.R. 3590, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The House of Representatives passed its bill, H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act, on November 20, 2009. House and Senate members are now working to resolve the differences between the two bills before a final package is sent to the President for his signature.
Again, thank you for letting me know your views on this important issue. Please be assured that I will continue to work in a bipartisan manner for solutions that will protect Medicare, bring down the cost of health care in this country, and expand access to quality care for all Americans.
Please visit my website at http://cardin.senate.gov to sign up for my e-newsletter.
Maybe if you are a fraud you can't recognize it in others.
Here's the letter, I found it disappointing, uninformative and very pro-party.
See what you think.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for contacting me about Medicare and health reform. The Medicare program has dramatically improved the lives of millions of American seniors and persons with disabilities since its creation in 1965. I am committed to protecting and strengthening this critical program.
Reforming our health care system will strengthen Medicare. The Senate health reform bill, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, would protect Medicare's guaranteed benefits, ensure that Medicare savings are used to improve the program, and extend Medicare solvency. It would also reduce costs and strengthen benefits for seniors by drastically reducing the "donut hole" in prescription drug coverage, and eliminating cost-sharing for preventive services. Furthermore, the bill includes measures that would ensure that seniors living in rural areas have access to inpatient, outpatient, ambulance and lab services, and would create a competitive bidding process for Medicare Advantage plans to reduce overpayments, which the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates total $150 billion over 10 years.
On December 24, 2009, the Senate passed H.R. 3590, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The House of Representatives passed its bill, H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act, on November 20, 2009. House and Senate members are now working to resolve the differences between the two bills before a final package is sent to the President for his signature.
Again, thank you for letting me know your views on this important issue. Please be assured that I will continue to work in a bipartisan manner for solutions that will protect Medicare, bring down the cost of health care in this country, and expand access to quality care for all Americans.
Please visit my website at http://cardin.senate.gov to sign up for my e-newsletter.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Medicare Fraud
Last night NBC news reported that Medicare Fraud now comes in at around $600 billion a year. They did not say how much, if any, of that money is ever recovered. $600 billion a year would go a long way towards paying for universal health care without my taxes needing to be raised.
I sent the following letter to my senators, once again imploring that they get a handle on Medicare and then worry about a health care bill.
As always use all or any part in contacting your own representatives.
Dear Senator
Last night NBC News reported that the US goverment (tax payer dollars) pays out $600 billion in Medicare fraud cases every year.
As I have written in the past, the government has to take control of Medicare, close all the loopholes and stop fraud. Once the fraud stops, then the government will have the money they need for universal health care.
Take charge of Medicare, prosecute violators to the extreme, and save our $600 billion a year. Take charge of the money that is being stolen, rather than ask tax payers to provide more.
Congress needs to take control, show leadership, and agressive copmmitment to righting a serious wrong.
Give law enforcement teeth to go after those who defraud the system so that all $600 billion is recovered.
I sent the following letter to my senators, once again imploring that they get a handle on Medicare and then worry about a health care bill.
As always use all or any part in contacting your own representatives.
Dear Senator
Last night NBC News reported that the US goverment (tax payer dollars) pays out $600 billion in Medicare fraud cases every year.
As I have written in the past, the government has to take control of Medicare, close all the loopholes and stop fraud. Once the fraud stops, then the government will have the money they need for universal health care.
Take charge of Medicare, prosecute violators to the extreme, and save our $600 billion a year. Take charge of the money that is being stolen, rather than ask tax payers to provide more.
Congress needs to take control, show leadership, and agressive copmmitment to righting a serious wrong.
Give law enforcement teeth to go after those who defraud the system so that all $600 billion is recovered.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Health Care Reform Deals
I sent the following letter to my senators to get some clarification on the deals made with Ben Nelson and others to get them to vote for the Senate Health Care Bill.
As always feel free to us all or any of the letter in contacting your own representatives.
A little truth will go a long way.
Its Common Sense!
Dear Senator
In your defense of the Health Care Bill you promised that it would be good for all Americans, get just about everyone insured, lower health care premiums and within ten years help lower the deficit.
Sounds good. But then I hear about the deals. Like that Senator Ben Nelson of Nebraska only agreed to vote in favor of the bill if the Federal Government would pick up the bill for Nebraska's Medicaid for the rest of my life time.
Special deals for Louisiana, Massachusetts and maybe a couple of other states.
Did the citizens Maryland get a deal, or are we expected to pay so the Democrats can present a false united front? How will these deals save me money? Will premiums really go down? Finally, what taxes will be raised to pay for all of this?
Its time for some honesty. What is the truth about the Health Care Bill? Will it perform as promised or is it all smoke and mirrors?
From the recent news that some of your fellow Democrats will not be running for another term, it is evident that the frustration of the public is finally getting through.
If the Democrats want to keep Congress and the White House, then its time to come clean and give the people the truth.
How bad are things?
What has to be done to save our country?
How much is it going to cost?
Where is the money going to come from?
Candidate Obama and the Democrats promised many things. For the first time since I began voting in 1972 I voted for the Democrat instead of the independent. He promised to close Gitmo - that's on hold, he promised to get us out of Iraq - we're still there and we increased our presence in Afghanistan, he promised a Health Care Reform that would insure at least 95% of all Americans - does not look like that's going to happen.
The President and his Democratic Congress have not delivered.
Why not?
Share the truth and explain what went wrong.
Thank you.
Michael Wolfe
As always feel free to us all or any of the letter in contacting your own representatives.
A little truth will go a long way.
Its Common Sense!
Dear Senator
In your defense of the Health Care Bill you promised that it would be good for all Americans, get just about everyone insured, lower health care premiums and within ten years help lower the deficit.
Sounds good. But then I hear about the deals. Like that Senator Ben Nelson of Nebraska only agreed to vote in favor of the bill if the Federal Government would pick up the bill for Nebraska's Medicaid for the rest of my life time.
Special deals for Louisiana, Massachusetts and maybe a couple of other states.
Did the citizens Maryland get a deal, or are we expected to pay so the Democrats can present a false united front? How will these deals save me money? Will premiums really go down? Finally, what taxes will be raised to pay for all of this?
Its time for some honesty. What is the truth about the Health Care Bill? Will it perform as promised or is it all smoke and mirrors?
From the recent news that some of your fellow Democrats will not be running for another term, it is evident that the frustration of the public is finally getting through.
If the Democrats want to keep Congress and the White House, then its time to come clean and give the people the truth.
How bad are things?
What has to be done to save our country?
How much is it going to cost?
Where is the money going to come from?
Candidate Obama and the Democrats promised many things. For the first time since I began voting in 1972 I voted for the Democrat instead of the independent. He promised to close Gitmo - that's on hold, he promised to get us out of Iraq - we're still there and we increased our presence in Afghanistan, he promised a Health Care Reform that would insure at least 95% of all Americans - does not look like that's going to happen.
The President and his Democratic Congress have not delivered.
Why not?
Share the truth and explain what went wrong.
Thank you.
Michael Wolfe
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Health Care Reform - Please Clarify
I wrote the following letter to my senators regrading the health care reform bill. Please feel free to us all or any part of it when writing to your legislators.
They need to answer some questions and be held accountable for their actions.
Its Common Sense!!
Dear Senator
The Health Care Reform Bill was able to pass through the Senate along party lines. In all probability the Senate Democrats and House Democrats will be able to work out a compromise between their two bills and have the votes to present a Congressional bill to the President in a couple of months.
Several things about this bill bother me.
1. The rush - all we have been hearing is how important it is for this legislation to be passed and we have seen the midnight oil burning at the Capital to demonstrate the importance of this legislation. If it is so important why will it go into effect in 2013? Why aren't you taking the time to get all of the details right at the beginning so that when the President signs on the dotted line it can go immediately into effect?
2. Medicare and Medicaid - as I have stated in previous correspondence, I do not believe there can be any effective health care reform until the government proves it can manage Medicare and Medicaid. Currently there are billions of dollars stolen every year from both programs in fraud scams. Recently a news show interviewed members of a special FBI investigation unit in southern Florida, as well as some of the criminals they caught who revealed how easy it was to steal from Medicare and Medicaid.
Before there can be reform, the government has to be properly managing Medicare and Medicaid. If the government can not clean up the fraud in those programs, then the current reform will only generate more fraud, and increase the tax burden on an already over burdened populace.
3. Lack of bi-partisan support - the fact that not one Republican will sign onto to the bill makes me nervous. I know there are ideological differences but if the true goal of this bill is to better things for the American public, then why are no Republicans on board? Is this really a bill for the good of the American public or is this to make President Obama and the Democrats look good for the short term?
4. Cost - who foots the bill? I heard that my premiums will be rising. My fear is that with the 2013 start date insurance companies will be free to raise premiums as high as they want, just like the banks have gone crazy in raising interest rates on credit cards. Congress failed to protect us from the banks - even though our tax money bailed them out - and I fear that the insurance companies will follow the lead of the banks.
What assurances can you offer that my medical premiums will not become unaffordable and that I will be forced into a plan that offers less coverage?
Do you honestly believe that this bill is the best thing for the American people, that it will truly be cost effective and that it will not put our country deeper into debt?
I eagerly await your response.
Happy New Year!
Michael Wolfe
They need to answer some questions and be held accountable for their actions.
Its Common Sense!!
Dear Senator
The Health Care Reform Bill was able to pass through the Senate along party lines. In all probability the Senate Democrats and House Democrats will be able to work out a compromise between their two bills and have the votes to present a Congressional bill to the President in a couple of months.
Several things about this bill bother me.
1. The rush - all we have been hearing is how important it is for this legislation to be passed and we have seen the midnight oil burning at the Capital to demonstrate the importance of this legislation. If it is so important why will it go into effect in 2013? Why aren't you taking the time to get all of the details right at the beginning so that when the President signs on the dotted line it can go immediately into effect?
2. Medicare and Medicaid - as I have stated in previous correspondence, I do not believe there can be any effective health care reform until the government proves it can manage Medicare and Medicaid. Currently there are billions of dollars stolen every year from both programs in fraud scams. Recently a news show interviewed members of a special FBI investigation unit in southern Florida, as well as some of the criminals they caught who revealed how easy it was to steal from Medicare and Medicaid.
Before there can be reform, the government has to be properly managing Medicare and Medicaid. If the government can not clean up the fraud in those programs, then the current reform will only generate more fraud, and increase the tax burden on an already over burdened populace.
3. Lack of bi-partisan support - the fact that not one Republican will sign onto to the bill makes me nervous. I know there are ideological differences but if the true goal of this bill is to better things for the American public, then why are no Republicans on board? Is this really a bill for the good of the American public or is this to make President Obama and the Democrats look good for the short term?
4. Cost - who foots the bill? I heard that my premiums will be rising. My fear is that with the 2013 start date insurance companies will be free to raise premiums as high as they want, just like the banks have gone crazy in raising interest rates on credit cards. Congress failed to protect us from the banks - even though our tax money bailed them out - and I fear that the insurance companies will follow the lead of the banks.
What assurances can you offer that my medical premiums will not become unaffordable and that I will be forced into a plan that offers less coverage?
Do you honestly believe that this bill is the best thing for the American people, that it will truly be cost effective and that it will not put our country deeper into debt?
I eagerly await your response.
Happy New Year!
Michael Wolfe
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Senate Health Care Bill
It appears that the Democrats in the Senate are just about ready to pass their version of a health reform bill. Evidently there has been a lot of back room negotiating and compromising but Senator Harry Reid is promising a bill to the President by Christmas Eve.
The fact that evidently no Republicans have sign on, even Olympia Snow, makes me wonder if we really want to place the future of our health care in partisan hands. If all bi-partisan efforts have failed, do we really want to be saddled with a plan that will pass with the barest majority necessary?
Of course, once it comes out of the Senate, then the Senate and House will need to come together and work out the differences between their two bills, so that a final plan can be presented to the President.
Will the House go a long with the Senate, or are we in for some more long nights and backroom deals?
Will a finalized bill ever reach the President?
I am curious to see what the final result of all of this will be. I think that in the end the two houses of Congress will not be able to come to an agreement and that President Obama will once again have failed to deliver on a campaign promise.
I am going to try and read through the new bill the Senate wants to pass, although I have a feeling I will not get far. The language really gets to be a problem. Maybe Congress needs to pass a law that all legislation needs to be written in terms the average American can understand without assistance from an attorney.
Congress is suppose to make laws for the people, the people should be able to read the laws.
Its Common Sense!
The fact that evidently no Republicans have sign on, even Olympia Snow, makes me wonder if we really want to place the future of our health care in partisan hands. If all bi-partisan efforts have failed, do we really want to be saddled with a plan that will pass with the barest majority necessary?
Of course, once it comes out of the Senate, then the Senate and House will need to come together and work out the differences between their two bills, so that a final plan can be presented to the President.
Will the House go a long with the Senate, or are we in for some more long nights and backroom deals?
Will a finalized bill ever reach the President?
I am curious to see what the final result of all of this will be. I think that in the end the two houses of Congress will not be able to come to an agreement and that President Obama will once again have failed to deliver on a campaign promise.
I am going to try and read through the new bill the Senate wants to pass, although I have a feeling I will not get far. The language really gets to be a problem. Maybe Congress needs to pass a law that all legislation needs to be written in terms the average American can understand without assistance from an attorney.
Congress is suppose to make laws for the people, the people should be able to read the laws.
Its Common Sense!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Senator Mikulski on Health Care Reform
As the battle tightens up in the senate over Health Care reform, and Democrats begin courting Independent Joe Lieberman for his vote, I received a letter from senator Barbara Mikulski of Maryland regarding my concerns.
After you read it let me know if it makes you feel better about the proposed bill because all it left me was depressed, frightened and confused.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for getting in touch with me about health care reform. It's great to hear from you.
Health care is one of the most important issues facing families and our economy. We need to:
?reduce health care costs for families, business and government
?protect people's choice of doctors, hospitals and health plans
?assure affordable, quality health care for all Americans
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (H.R. 3590) represents the combined efforts of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) and the Senate Committee on Finance. This bill takes a giant step forward in providing health care that is available, undeniable and affordable for all Americans.
There are many issues being discussed as part of health care reform. I will keep your views in mind as we continue our work on this important issue.
Thanks once again for writing. Please let me know if I can be of assistance in the future.
Sincerely,
Barbara A. Mikulski
United States Senator
After you read it let me know if it makes you feel better about the proposed bill because all it left me was depressed, frightened and confused.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for getting in touch with me about health care reform. It's great to hear from you.
Health care is one of the most important issues facing families and our economy. We need to:
?reduce health care costs for families, business and government
?protect people's choice of doctors, hospitals and health plans
?assure affordable, quality health care for all Americans
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (H.R. 3590) represents the combined efforts of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) and the Senate Committee on Finance. This bill takes a giant step forward in providing health care that is available, undeniable and affordable for all Americans.
There are many issues being discussed as part of health care reform. I will keep your views in mind as we continue our work on this important issue.
Thanks once again for writing. Please let me know if I can be of assistance in the future.
Sincerely,
Barbara A. Mikulski
United States Senator
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Senator Mikulski on Women's Health Care
Thought I would share the following from Senator Mikulski's newsletter.
Mikulski Amendment Guarantees Women Access to Affordable Preventive Care
Last week, the Senate put women first in health care reform when it passed my amendment to guarantee women access to preventive care and screenings at no cost. It was the first amendment considered and approved in the Senate's debate on health care reform.
We must end the punitive practices of the private insurance companies that treat simply being a woman as a preexisting condition. That's why I support the Senate health reform bill and why I introduced my amendment. In the United States of America, health care is a women's issue. Health care reform is a must-do women's issue, and health insurance reform is a must–change women's issue.
Too often women face the punitive practices of insurance companies that charge women more and give them less in benefits. A 25–year–old woman pays more for health insurance than her male counterpart of the same health status. A 40–year–old woman pays almost 35 percent more for her insurance than a man of similar age and health status.
More than half of American women report that they skip or delay needed care due to cost. My amendment guarantees that women of all ages will receive, at no cost, an annual women's health exam, which will include screenings for the leading causes of death for women — cancer, heart disease, and chronic illnesses such as diabetes.
Right now, insurance company bureaucrats decide what preventive services will be covered for women. But we know that early detection saves lives, curtails the expansion of disease, and, in the long run, saves money. That's why my amendment expands key preventive services for women based on recommendations of women's health experts - scientists and doctors - and supported by the Centers for Disease Control and the Health Resources and Services Administration.
And under my amendment, decisions about preventive care and screenings - like mammograms - will be made between a woman and her doctor in a medical office. It will not be made by an insurance company, a member of Congress or by a stranger.
Without this amendment, there would be no guarantee that women under 50 would be covered for mammograms, no guarantee of an annual women's health exam that would include screenings for heart disease, and no guarantee that women would have access to this preventive care at no cost. Insurance companies have used every trick in the book to deny coverage to women. This amendment makes sure that the insurance companies must cover the basic care that women need at no cost.
It's a big step forward. But with votes on the final legislation ahead, the fight's not over yet. Women can count on me to keep fighting for them on the Senate floor and all the way to the White House to end punitive insurance company practices that discriminate against women in the insurance marketplace.
Mikulski Amendment Guarantees Women Access to Affordable Preventive Care
Last week, the Senate put women first in health care reform when it passed my amendment to guarantee women access to preventive care and screenings at no cost. It was the first amendment considered and approved in the Senate's debate on health care reform.
We must end the punitive practices of the private insurance companies that treat simply being a woman as a preexisting condition. That's why I support the Senate health reform bill and why I introduced my amendment. In the United States of America, health care is a women's issue. Health care reform is a must-do women's issue, and health insurance reform is a must–change women's issue.
Too often women face the punitive practices of insurance companies that charge women more and give them less in benefits. A 25–year–old woman pays more for health insurance than her male counterpart of the same health status. A 40–year–old woman pays almost 35 percent more for her insurance than a man of similar age and health status.
More than half of American women report that they skip or delay needed care due to cost. My amendment guarantees that women of all ages will receive, at no cost, an annual women's health exam, which will include screenings for the leading causes of death for women — cancer, heart disease, and chronic illnesses such as diabetes.
Right now, insurance company bureaucrats decide what preventive services will be covered for women. But we know that early detection saves lives, curtails the expansion of disease, and, in the long run, saves money. That's why my amendment expands key preventive services for women based on recommendations of women's health experts - scientists and doctors - and supported by the Centers for Disease Control and the Health Resources and Services Administration.
And under my amendment, decisions about preventive care and screenings - like mammograms - will be made between a woman and her doctor in a medical office. It will not be made by an insurance company, a member of Congress or by a stranger.
Without this amendment, there would be no guarantee that women under 50 would be covered for mammograms, no guarantee of an annual women's health exam that would include screenings for heart disease, and no guarantee that women would have access to this preventive care at no cost. Insurance companies have used every trick in the book to deny coverage to women. This amendment makes sure that the insurance companies must cover the basic care that women need at no cost.
It's a big step forward. But with votes on the final legislation ahead, the fight's not over yet. Women can count on me to keep fighting for them on the Senate floor and all the way to the White House to end punitive insurance company practices that discriminate against women in the insurance marketplace.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Church verses State
This past week the Catholic Bishops of the United States let the US Senate know that they did not want abortion operations included as a procedure covered by the Health Care Bill. Evidently the bishops have enough influence that the Senate followed their request.
Earlier, the bishops had let Speaker of the House Pelosi, a "good" Catholic Italian girl know their thoughts on abortion. Congress's version of the bill does not cover the cost of abortions.
Being a "good" Catholic myself, I find it fascinating to see the influence the bishops have over our political leaders. We have heard of the "MORAL MAJORITY" for years, and this is usually linked with conservative/fundamentalist Protestant denominations. However, this vote shows just how much "quiet" influence the Catholic bishops have in this county. Evidently, more Catholics than one thinks vote according to the "suggestions" of their religious leaders.
Which raises interesting questions. If this country practices the concept of separation of Church and State, why do the religious groups have so much power?
The truth is that the ideal of separation is simply that, an ideal. The majority of people in this country, whether they admit it openly or not, are guided to some degree by the teachings and directives of their religious leaders.
In general that is for the good, but there are times when religious leaders are locked into mentalities of the pass and are not willing to adjust to changing thoughts and concepts.
I find it sad (although not surprising) that our political leaders once again putting their political futures above what is best for the people.
We need to let the Capital Hill gang know that they work for us and not the religious leaders of the country. What is best for the people is not what is always best for the people.
Its Common Sense!
Earlier, the bishops had let Speaker of the House Pelosi, a "good" Catholic Italian girl know their thoughts on abortion. Congress's version of the bill does not cover the cost of abortions.
Being a "good" Catholic myself, I find it fascinating to see the influence the bishops have over our political leaders. We have heard of the "MORAL MAJORITY" for years, and this is usually linked with conservative/fundamentalist Protestant denominations. However, this vote shows just how much "quiet" influence the Catholic bishops have in this county. Evidently, more Catholics than one thinks vote according to the "suggestions" of their religious leaders.
Which raises interesting questions. If this country practices the concept of separation of Church and State, why do the religious groups have so much power?
The truth is that the ideal of separation is simply that, an ideal. The majority of people in this country, whether they admit it openly or not, are guided to some degree by the teachings and directives of their religious leaders.
In general that is for the good, but there are times when religious leaders are locked into mentalities of the pass and are not willing to adjust to changing thoughts and concepts.
I find it sad (although not surprising) that our political leaders once again putting their political futures above what is best for the people.
We need to let the Capital Hill gang know that they work for us and not the religious leaders of the country. What is best for the people is not what is always best for the people.
Its Common Sense!
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Flu Shots for Prison Inmates
Friday I went to see my family doctor for my annual check up. As I near sixty, I am trying to be more attentive to my health needs because I want to reach at least one hundred.
During the course of the physical he asked if I had received a flu shot and I said yes. He knows I work for the Federal Government and he shook his head. The government, the big guys like Walgreen, Walmart and CVS all got plenty but small time practitioners like him are on waiting lists.
To be honest I thought it was only the swine flu shots that are in short supply, I did not realize it was regular flu shots as well.
And then I learned that doses are being sent to immunize inmates in State and Federal Prisons. According to reports its only for those in the danger category but it still irritates me.
I have felt for a long time that are correctional facilities are too easy on the inmates. Yes, they are locked behind bars and there are gang fights etc. But they are fed, they have better medical coverage than a lot of tax paying Americans - remember when an inmate was pushed to top of the line for a kidney transplant, even though he was a murderer? - air conditioning, cable tv and exercise equipment.
Does not sound too bad to me. Where is the punishment? Bring back the chain gang and have them provide work to the state that is housing them.
Anyway, I do not understand why anyone in prison is entitled to preferential treatment until all of the rule following citizens are taken care of. I have never heard of a massive flu outbreak in a prison - have you?
Get out the pen and let your representatives know that prisoners need to be last. Let's get the kids and elderly immunized first. Once all the "good" citizens are in the clear, then we can worry about those in prison.
Its Common Sense!
During the course of the physical he asked if I had received a flu shot and I said yes. He knows I work for the Federal Government and he shook his head. The government, the big guys like Walgreen, Walmart and CVS all got plenty but small time practitioners like him are on waiting lists.
To be honest I thought it was only the swine flu shots that are in short supply, I did not realize it was regular flu shots as well.
And then I learned that doses are being sent to immunize inmates in State and Federal Prisons. According to reports its only for those in the danger category but it still irritates me.
I have felt for a long time that are correctional facilities are too easy on the inmates. Yes, they are locked behind bars and there are gang fights etc. But they are fed, they have better medical coverage than a lot of tax paying Americans - remember when an inmate was pushed to top of the line for a kidney transplant, even though he was a murderer? - air conditioning, cable tv and exercise equipment.
Does not sound too bad to me. Where is the punishment? Bring back the chain gang and have them provide work to the state that is housing them.
Anyway, I do not understand why anyone in prison is entitled to preferential treatment until all of the rule following citizens are taken care of. I have never heard of a massive flu outbreak in a prison - have you?
Get out the pen and let your representatives know that prisoners need to be last. Let's get the kids and elderly immunized first. Once all the "good" citizens are in the clear, then we can worry about those in prison.
Its Common Sense!
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Medicare Fraud
Today came out the information that Medicare has been defrauded approximately $40 billion this past year. That sounds like a lot of money to me. I did not see how much, if any, of that money was recovered.
Articles like that is what has me scared about the government assuming even more control over the health care system. It is evident that Congress and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid can not control or even get a hold on the fraud.
So once again, I am asking the US Congress to prove they can manage just Medicare, before they attempt to take over the majority of health care in the country. I think they need to adequately staff and train the Centers for medicare and Medicaid, teach them how to work with law enforcement and then turn them loose on the perpetrators of these frauds.
Once they can bring back the $40 billion, then I will be willing to listen to them talk about passing their health care bill.
Prove you have the power and ability to complete one job. Once you guys and gals on Capital Hill have accomplished that, then we will be willing to hear you talk about how you will run health care reform.
Its Common Sense!
Articles like that is what has me scared about the government assuming even more control over the health care system. It is evident that Congress and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid can not control or even get a hold on the fraud.
So once again, I am asking the US Congress to prove they can manage just Medicare, before they attempt to take over the majority of health care in the country. I think they need to adequately staff and train the Centers for medicare and Medicaid, teach them how to work with law enforcement and then turn them loose on the perpetrators of these frauds.
Once they can bring back the $40 billion, then I will be willing to listen to them talk about passing their health care bill.
Prove you have the power and ability to complete one job. Once you guys and gals on Capital Hill have accomplished that, then we will be willing to hear you talk about how you will run health care reform.
Its Common Sense!
Sunday, November 8, 2009
US Senate & Health Care Reform
As I promised yesterday, I attempted to read the House Health Reform Bill and got confused by all of the legalize. I do not understand why they cannot write these bills so that anyone other than an attorney can read them.
I am not satisfied with the explanation of how the bill will be paid. I think a lot of things are either implied or hidden very carefully.
So, I wrote to my senators asking them not to vote on the bill until they could explain to me in layman's terms just what the bill includes, what it doesn't include, how much it will really cost and where the money is coming from - what new taxes - to pay for it.
As always feel free to use all or any of the letter when you write to your senators.
Here's the letter.
Dear Senator
I attempted to read House Bill H.R. 3962 with little success. I wish you could generate a bill the common person could read without a legal expert.
That said I need you to clarify some items of the bill.
How is cutting Medicare by $400 billion over the next ten years going to help seniors, especially since the number of senior citizens on Medicare will be increasing greatly during that same time?
Currently the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services is unable to deal with the amount of fraud perpetrated against Medicare. Recently a news program interviewed members of a special FBI task force in southern Florida who report that the amount being paid in Medicare fraud is more than what is being paid for illegal drugs.
How is the abuse going to be controlled? How will the fraud money be recovered? How are seniors going to be guaranteed their coverage?
Another question, what controls are in place so that private insurers cannot raise their premiums through the roof?
I am a Federal employee and the current rumor is our premiums will be raised anywhere from 8% to 20%. With no cost of living raise, that is a big.
(Imagine seniors with no COLA increase this year still having to pay higher premiums on their supplementary policies. Is any one really looking out for the seniors?)
Finally, where is the $1.2 trillion to pay for this legislation going to come from? Unemployment is at an all time high, meaning income tax revenues are down to an all time low. I do not see the new and saved jobs the stimulus was suppose to provide. Did the banks pay back interest on their bailout money? They seem to have plenty of bonus money available; I hope the government is getting its fair share.
What tax increases will we taxpayers be facing? I know a about the tax on those earning over $500,000.00 but how many fall in that category? What taxes are going to fund this Health Care Reform? (How much money are you borrowing from China to things going?)
Senator, please respond before voting on this people. The people who are going to have to pay for the legislation need to be guaranteed that is going to managed adequately, fairly and continually. There can be no loopholes and no favoritism.
Please show all the details in clear easy to read language.
Convince me that this legislation is the best thing for the country.
Thank you,
Michael Wolfe
I am not satisfied with the explanation of how the bill will be paid. I think a lot of things are either implied or hidden very carefully.
So, I wrote to my senators asking them not to vote on the bill until they could explain to me in layman's terms just what the bill includes, what it doesn't include, how much it will really cost and where the money is coming from - what new taxes - to pay for it.
As always feel free to use all or any of the letter when you write to your senators.
Here's the letter.
Dear Senator
I attempted to read House Bill H.R. 3962 with little success. I wish you could generate a bill the common person could read without a legal expert.
That said I need you to clarify some items of the bill.
How is cutting Medicare by $400 billion over the next ten years going to help seniors, especially since the number of senior citizens on Medicare will be increasing greatly during that same time?
Currently the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services is unable to deal with the amount of fraud perpetrated against Medicare. Recently a news program interviewed members of a special FBI task force in southern Florida who report that the amount being paid in Medicare fraud is more than what is being paid for illegal drugs.
How is the abuse going to be controlled? How will the fraud money be recovered? How are seniors going to be guaranteed their coverage?
Another question, what controls are in place so that private insurers cannot raise their premiums through the roof?
I am a Federal employee and the current rumor is our premiums will be raised anywhere from 8% to 20%. With no cost of living raise, that is a big.
(Imagine seniors with no COLA increase this year still having to pay higher premiums on their supplementary policies. Is any one really looking out for the seniors?)
Finally, where is the $1.2 trillion to pay for this legislation going to come from? Unemployment is at an all time high, meaning income tax revenues are down to an all time low. I do not see the new and saved jobs the stimulus was suppose to provide. Did the banks pay back interest on their bailout money? They seem to have plenty of bonus money available; I hope the government is getting its fair share.
What tax increases will we taxpayers be facing? I know a about the tax on those earning over $500,000.00 but how many fall in that category? What taxes are going to fund this Health Care Reform? (How much money are you borrowing from China to things going?)
Senator, please respond before voting on this people. The people who are going to have to pay for the legislation need to be guaranteed that is going to managed adequately, fairly and continually. There can be no loopholes and no favoritism.
Please show all the details in clear easy to read language.
Convince me that this legislation is the best thing for the country.
Thank you,
Michael Wolfe
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Public Option
It appears that the Public Option of the Health Care Reform Bill is gaining some support. However, its gaining support because states will have the option not to take it.
How is the Public Option open to the public, if individual states decide if their residents will be allowed that option?
Personally, I am against the Public Option. I am against any health plan that allows the government to be in charge. The government has failed miserably managing Medicare and Medicaid, and the same can only be expected of a government run Public Option.
Repeating what i have stated in the past, the government needs to clean up Medicare and Medicaid. Make them function at a profit, get rid of the fraud and corruption and once that is accomplished, then come to the public and talk about this public option.
Tax payers are paying enough - we have to bail out banks, we bail out car companies, we have to bailout homeowners who did not do their homework before buying, we have to pay for two wars, and now we are being asked to pay other people's health care.
Its too much. There is only so much we can provide. Government needs to get big business and the health insurance companies to start paying their share. The cost of medical procedures need to be regulated. Tort reform needs to be enacted.
Clear up the current mess before creating another one with the Public Option.
Its Common Sense!
How is the Public Option open to the public, if individual states decide if their residents will be allowed that option?
Personally, I am against the Public Option. I am against any health plan that allows the government to be in charge. The government has failed miserably managing Medicare and Medicaid, and the same can only be expected of a government run Public Option.
Repeating what i have stated in the past, the government needs to clean up Medicare and Medicaid. Make them function at a profit, get rid of the fraud and corruption and once that is accomplished, then come to the public and talk about this public option.
Tax payers are paying enough - we have to bail out banks, we bail out car companies, we have to bailout homeowners who did not do their homework before buying, we have to pay for two wars, and now we are being asked to pay other people's health care.
Its too much. There is only so much we can provide. Government needs to get big business and the health insurance companies to start paying their share. The cost of medical procedures need to be regulated. Tort reform needs to be enacted.
Clear up the current mess before creating another one with the Public Option.
Its Common Sense!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Senator Barbara Mikulski on Women's Health Care
I received the following from Senator Mikulskion Wednesday 10/14/09. Seems that all of the gang in Washington want to get in the act.
Senator Mikulski: Fighting for Fairness in Women's Health CareTuesday, October 13, 2009 7:02 PM
From: "senator@mikulski.senate.gov"Add sender to ContactsTo: izamike@yahoo.com
OCTOBER, 2009
In This Issue:
Woman's Health Care
Fast Facts
This Week in the Senate:
Hearing of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee
Title: What Women Want: Equal Benefits for Equal Premiums
Date: Thursday, October 15 at 10:30 a.m.
Place: SD-430
Watch the Hearing Live
“Coverage for women is often skimpy and spartan… We women are here to fight for change.”
Senator Mikulski, September 30, 2009
Subscribe to My
E-Newsletter
Unsubscribe from My E-Newsletter
Senator Mikulski
Photos
Video Gallery
Press Releases
On the Issues
Constituent Services
About Maryland
Contact
503 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Phone: 202-224-4654
Fax: 202-224-8858
Comments Page
Fighting for Health Care Reform That Works for Women
Health care reform is one of the most important issues facing the nation right now, and it’s particularly important for women.
Health care is a woman’s issue, health care reform is a must-do woman’s issue, and health insurance reform is a must-change woman’s issue. That’s why my Democratic women colleagues and I have been busy fighting for equal benefits for equal premiums.
Today our health care system offers women skimpy and spartan coverage. It often doesn’t cover basic women’s health care like maternity care and O.B. services, or preventive care like mammograms and pap tests. Women are denied coverage because of “pre-existing conditions,” including C-sections, past pregnancies and domestic violence. We don’t believe in battered women, whether it’s in the home or in the insurance market place.
We women pay more and we get less. A 25 year old woman is charged up to 45 percent more than a 25 year old man with the same health status for the same policy. And once she reaches 40, it can be up to 140 percent more.
We women are here to fight for change - to end the punitive practices of insurance companies that discriminate on the basis of gender and pre-existing conditions. We want to protect and strengthen Medicare, to emphasize quality and prevention to save lives and save money, and to expand access to health care reform in a well-paced, phased-in and affordable way.
I helped write the HELP Committee’s bill, The Affordable Health Choices Act, to improve women’s access to affordable, quality health care. It stops insurance companies from charging women higher premiums or refusing to cover victims of domestic violence. It requires insurance companies to cover basic health care - like maternity care. And it requires coverage for screening and preventive services, like mammograms and pap tests, at minimal or no cost.
That’s what we are fighting for - equal benefits for equal premiums. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on the issue.
Links in This Story
Senator Mikulski on Women’s Health Care (Video)
Women of the Senate Talk Health Reform on Larry King Live (Video)
Roadblocks to Health Care (White House Report)
In Maryland
In 2006, 1 in 3 births were by C-section, meaning coverage exclusions or rejection for tens of thousands of women.
In 2007, 15% of Maryland women were uninsured.
By 2016, premiums for family coverage are projected to reach $23,608.
64% of individual health plans do not include maternity care.
Fast Facts
17 million women are uninsured - that’s about 1 in 5 women.
One in 10 women is covered under Medicaid.
More than half of all Medicare beneficiaries (56%) are women.
Three in five women have problems paying their medical bills.
Women are more likely than men to neglect care or treatment because of cost.
Most individual insurance policies exclude maternity care.
Only 20 states require private insurance companies to cover annual mammograms.
Please do not respond directly to this e-mail. The originating e-mail account is not monitored.
If you would like to get in touch with me, please click here
Senator Mikulski: Fighting for Fairness in Women's Health CareTuesday, October 13, 2009 7:02 PM
From: "senator@mikulski.senate.gov"
OCTOBER, 2009
In This Issue:
Woman's Health Care
Fast Facts
This Week in the Senate:
Hearing of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee
Title: What Women Want: Equal Benefits for Equal Premiums
Date: Thursday, October 15 at 10:30 a.m.
Place: SD-430
Watch the Hearing Live
“Coverage for women is often skimpy and spartan… We women are here to fight for change.”
Senator Mikulski, September 30, 2009
Subscribe to My
E-Newsletter
Unsubscribe from My E-Newsletter
Senator Mikulski
Photos
Video Gallery
Press Releases
On the Issues
Constituent Services
About Maryland
Contact
503 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Phone: 202-224-4654
Fax: 202-224-8858
Comments Page
Fighting for Health Care Reform That Works for Women
Health care reform is one of the most important issues facing the nation right now, and it’s particularly important for women.
Health care is a woman’s issue, health care reform is a must-do woman’s issue, and health insurance reform is a must-change woman’s issue. That’s why my Democratic women colleagues and I have been busy fighting for equal benefits for equal premiums.
Today our health care system offers women skimpy and spartan coverage. It often doesn’t cover basic women’s health care like maternity care and O.B. services, or preventive care like mammograms and pap tests. Women are denied coverage because of “pre-existing conditions,” including C-sections, past pregnancies and domestic violence. We don’t believe in battered women, whether it’s in the home or in the insurance market place.
We women pay more and we get less. A 25 year old woman is charged up to 45 percent more than a 25 year old man with the same health status for the same policy. And once she reaches 40, it can be up to 140 percent more.
We women are here to fight for change - to end the punitive practices of insurance companies that discriminate on the basis of gender and pre-existing conditions. We want to protect and strengthen Medicare, to emphasize quality and prevention to save lives and save money, and to expand access to health care reform in a well-paced, phased-in and affordable way.
I helped write the HELP Committee’s bill, The Affordable Health Choices Act, to improve women’s access to affordable, quality health care. It stops insurance companies from charging women higher premiums or refusing to cover victims of domestic violence. It requires insurance companies to cover basic health care - like maternity care. And it requires coverage for screening and preventive services, like mammograms and pap tests, at minimal or no cost.
That’s what we are fighting for - equal benefits for equal premiums. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on the issue.
Links in This Story
Senator Mikulski on Women’s Health Care (Video)
Women of the Senate Talk Health Reform on Larry King Live (Video)
Roadblocks to Health Care (White House Report)
In Maryland
In 2006, 1 in 3 births were by C-section, meaning coverage exclusions or rejection for tens of thousands of women.
In 2007, 15% of Maryland women were uninsured.
By 2016, premiums for family coverage are projected to reach $23,608.
64% of individual health plans do not include maternity care.
Fast Facts
17 million women are uninsured - that’s about 1 in 5 women.
One in 10 women is covered under Medicaid.
More than half of all Medicare beneficiaries (56%) are women.
Three in five women have problems paying their medical bills.
Women are more likely than men to neglect care or treatment because of cost.
Most individual insurance policies exclude maternity care.
Only 20 states require private insurance companies to cover annual mammograms.
Please do not respond directly to this e-mail. The originating e-mail account is not monitored.
If you would like to get in touch with me, please click here
Senator Ben Cardin on Health Care Reform (2)
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for contacting me about Medicare and health care reform.
Earlier this year, several Congressional committees began work on legislation to reduce the overall cost of health care for all Americans and expand coverage to the millions who are uninsured. Our overarching goal is to achieve meaningful reforms that will maintain what works in our health care system and fix what is broken. Although the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over Medicare, Medicaid, and the financing of health reform, has not yet reported a bill, it is expected to do so shortly. Please be assured that I have read the bills that have been reported so far, and I will carefully read the Senate Finance Committee's bill before its provisions are debated on the Senate floor.
There has been much discussion about what will happen to the Medicare program. The Senate Finance Committee, which is meeting now to consider how to pay for health reform, is debating several options, many of which have been recommended by the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission, or MedPAC, a non-partisan body that advises Congress on changes that should be made to Medicare. MedPAC comprises hospital representatives, doctors and other medical professionals, and they vote on how to update Medicare policies, but Congress has the final say. Perhaps the biggest change being considered would reduce the billions of dollars in overpayments being made to private insurers who offer Medicare HMO plans. That change would strengthen Medicare in the long run and keep down increases in your part B premium that would otherwise occur. I want to emphasize that your Medicare benefits will not be cut. To the contrary, we are considering proposals that would gradually eliminate the Part D "donut hole," make preventive benefits more affordable for you, and improve the low-income subsidy programs in Medicare so that more seniors can get financial assistance with Medicare premiums, deductibles, and copayments.
As the Senate continues deliberation, I hope we can agree that the only option that should not be on the table is the status quo. We cannot allow the current state of our health care system, which is too expensive and too fragmented, to continue. My objective is to make health care more affordable for American families' budgets and for our nation's budget. In order to achieve balanced federal budgets again, we must get health care costs under control, and in doing so, we will be able to make America more competitive in the global economy.
In addition, there are more than 46 million Americans who lack health insurance, and that number has grown by 20 percent in the past eight years. In Maryland , 760,000 people are uninsured. Underscoring the need for action is the fact that every day, Americans are filing for personal bankruptcy because they can't pay the health care bills they have incurred. In addition, when the uninsured cannot pay, health care providers shift those costs to those who can. It has been estimated that each American family with health insurance pays an additional $1,100 in premiums each year because of those who are unwilling or unable to get coverage.
I support reform that builds on our current system. I am privileged to represent a state that is home to two great medical centers-Johns Hopkins and the University of Maryland --and to the National Institutes of Health. Marylanders are justifiably proud of our state's tradition of high quality medical care. We want to maintain the ability to choose the doctors and hospitals where we receive care. I want Marylanders and all other Americans to be able to choose the health care plan in which they participate. For these reasons, we need to build on our current system.
As a member of the Senate Budget Committee, I firmly believe that any reform proposals we enact must be fully paid for, and the budget resolution passed by Congress requires that. I will carefully evaluate all options for financing health reform, keeping in mind the disproportionate effect that some provisions under discussion would have on working families. Health care access is an issue that stretches across all communities and many income levels, and it is not limited to members of one political party.
The President has made health care reform a priority for this Administration, and Congress has been striving to achieve workable solutions that can move our nation forward. I will continue to work in a bipartisan manner for solutions that will truly bring down the cost of health care in this country and expand access to quality care for all.
Again, thank you for letting me know your views on this important issue.
Please visit my website at http://cardin.senate.gov to sign up for my e-newsletter.
Thank you for contacting me about Medicare and health care reform.
Earlier this year, several Congressional committees began work on legislation to reduce the overall cost of health care for all Americans and expand coverage to the millions who are uninsured. Our overarching goal is to achieve meaningful reforms that will maintain what works in our health care system and fix what is broken. Although the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over Medicare, Medicaid, and the financing of health reform, has not yet reported a bill, it is expected to do so shortly. Please be assured that I have read the bills that have been reported so far, and I will carefully read the Senate Finance Committee's bill before its provisions are debated on the Senate floor.
There has been much discussion about what will happen to the Medicare program. The Senate Finance Committee, which is meeting now to consider how to pay for health reform, is debating several options, many of which have been recommended by the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission, or MedPAC, a non-partisan body that advises Congress on changes that should be made to Medicare. MedPAC comprises hospital representatives, doctors and other medical professionals, and they vote on how to update Medicare policies, but Congress has the final say. Perhaps the biggest change being considered would reduce the billions of dollars in overpayments being made to private insurers who offer Medicare HMO plans. That change would strengthen Medicare in the long run and keep down increases in your part B premium that would otherwise occur. I want to emphasize that your Medicare benefits will not be cut. To the contrary, we are considering proposals that would gradually eliminate the Part D "donut hole," make preventive benefits more affordable for you, and improve the low-income subsidy programs in Medicare so that more seniors can get financial assistance with Medicare premiums, deductibles, and copayments.
As the Senate continues deliberation, I hope we can agree that the only option that should not be on the table is the status quo. We cannot allow the current state of our health care system, which is too expensive and too fragmented, to continue. My objective is to make health care more affordable for American families' budgets and for our nation's budget. In order to achieve balanced federal budgets again, we must get health care costs under control, and in doing so, we will be able to make America more competitive in the global economy.
In addition, there are more than 46 million Americans who lack health insurance, and that number has grown by 20 percent in the past eight years. In Maryland , 760,000 people are uninsured. Underscoring the need for action is the fact that every day, Americans are filing for personal bankruptcy because they can't pay the health care bills they have incurred. In addition, when the uninsured cannot pay, health care providers shift those costs to those who can. It has been estimated that each American family with health insurance pays an additional $1,100 in premiums each year because of those who are unwilling or unable to get coverage.
I support reform that builds on our current system. I am privileged to represent a state that is home to two great medical centers-Johns Hopkins and the University of Maryland --and to the National Institutes of Health. Marylanders are justifiably proud of our state's tradition of high quality medical care. We want to maintain the ability to choose the doctors and hospitals where we receive care. I want Marylanders and all other Americans to be able to choose the health care plan in which they participate. For these reasons, we need to build on our current system.
As a member of the Senate Budget Committee, I firmly believe that any reform proposals we enact must be fully paid for, and the budget resolution passed by Congress requires that. I will carefully evaluate all options for financing health reform, keeping in mind the disproportionate effect that some provisions under discussion would have on working families. Health care access is an issue that stretches across all communities and many income levels, and it is not limited to members of one political party.
The President has made health care reform a priority for this Administration, and Congress has been striving to achieve workable solutions that can move our nation forward. I will continue to work in a bipartisan manner for solutions that will truly bring down the cost of health care in this country and expand access to quality care for all.
Again, thank you for letting me know your views on this important issue.
Please visit my website at http://cardin.senate.gov to sign up for my e-newsletter.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
The Public Option
The Health Care Debate continues and now it is Democrat against Democrat in whether a Public or Government financed option needs to be part of the package. Rockefeller of West Virginia wants the government option to follow the payment plan set up for Medicare recipients. Schumer of New York wants to discuss options then come up with a formula.
Of course the big questions is - Who is going to pay for this? Where will the funding come from to initiate this government run Health Care Organization?
Those of us already satisfied with our health plans will not be in favor of our tax dollars, especially increased tax dollars, going to finance this option.
The majority of people who will opt for this option are low income, or unemployed, so they will not be able to pay premiums. (At least Medicare recipients have their Medicare premium deducted from their monthly Social Security check.)
Without increasing taxes I do not believe the government plan will have the funding it needs. All the savings by tightening down on Medicare and Medicaid fraud will not be seen for years, if they ever actually appear.
I agree that all people need health coverage. But let's be honest and say the truth. For health care reform to work all the American public is going to have to pay. There is no pot of gold at the end of the rainbow that will finance this reform. The only pot of gold is the one from our pay checks, those of us who are lucky enough to be working these days.
The liberals can ask for everything under the sun. What they need to do is explain simply and clearly how they plan on paying for the reform.
Its Common Sense!
Of course the big questions is - Who is going to pay for this? Where will the funding come from to initiate this government run Health Care Organization?
Those of us already satisfied with our health plans will not be in favor of our tax dollars, especially increased tax dollars, going to finance this option.
The majority of people who will opt for this option are low income, or unemployed, so they will not be able to pay premiums. (At least Medicare recipients have their Medicare premium deducted from their monthly Social Security check.)
Without increasing taxes I do not believe the government plan will have the funding it needs. All the savings by tightening down on Medicare and Medicaid fraud will not be seen for years, if they ever actually appear.
I agree that all people need health coverage. But let's be honest and say the truth. For health care reform to work all the American public is going to have to pay. There is no pot of gold at the end of the rainbow that will finance this reform. The only pot of gold is the one from our pay checks, those of us who are lucky enough to be working these days.
The liberals can ask for everything under the sun. What they need to do is explain simply and clearly how they plan on paying for the reform.
Its Common Sense!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
David Axelrod for President Obama
As I promised yesterday, here is David Axelrod's message from president Obama. Let me know if it answers your questions.
Dear Friend,
Four minutes — that’s all you need to learn just what you get from health insurance reform. Take the few minutes and watch now:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/issues/health_care/?e=14&ref=image
The details the President outlines in this video are those that every American needs to know. No matter your political party or whether or not you have insurance, his plan for health care security and stability matters to all of us.
Millions of American citizens cannot get health insurance — and 14,000 are losing their insurance every day. If we do nothing, half of Americans under the age of 65 will lose their health insurance at some point in the next ten years.
That’s not right. Plain and simple. For Americans with insurance as well as those without it, inaction is not an option. In America, no one should go broke because they get sick.
Bottom line — health insurance reform will provide more security and stability to those who have health insurance, coverage for those who don’t, and will lower the cost of health care for our families, our businesses, and our government.
As the President says, now is the time to deliver the change we need on health care. Forward this email and make sure your family, friends and social networks take four minutes and watch this video.
Thank you,
David
David Axelrod
Senior Adviser to the President
Dear Friend,
Four minutes — that’s all you need to learn just what you get from health insurance reform. Take the few minutes and watch now:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/issues/health_care/?e=14&ref=image
The details the President outlines in this video are those that every American needs to know. No matter your political party or whether or not you have insurance, his plan for health care security and stability matters to all of us.
Millions of American citizens cannot get health insurance — and 14,000 are losing their insurance every day. If we do nothing, half of Americans under the age of 65 will lose their health insurance at some point in the next ten years.
That’s not right. Plain and simple. For Americans with insurance as well as those without it, inaction is not an option. In America, no one should go broke because they get sick.
Bottom line — health insurance reform will provide more security and stability to those who have health insurance, coverage for those who don’t, and will lower the cost of health care for our families, our businesses, and our government.
As the President says, now is the time to deliver the change we need on health care. Forward this email and make sure your family, friends and social networks take four minutes and watch this video.
Thank you,
David
David Axelrod
Senior Adviser to the President
Monday, September 21, 2009
Senator Mikulski on Medical Malpractice
Today I received two missives on Health Care Reform.
One was from David Axelrod, senior advisor to President Obama. Since I write so often to the White House, I am on their mailing list. Basically he wants me to watch Obama's speech from Congress and explain all the positive parts of the President's goals for Health Care Reform. I still haven't figured out how this is not going to cost me in some manner, shape or form. Tomorrow I will share his missive.
The second missive was from Senator Barbara Mikulski regarding medical malpractice and how to bring it under control so doctors can practice offensive medicine as opposed to defensive medicine.
Here is her letter. Let me know what you think.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for getting in touch with me about medical liability and health care reform. It's great to hear from you.
Health care is one of the most important issues facing families and our economy. We absolutely need to pass health reform that:
-reduces costs for providers, families, business and government
-protects people's choice of doctors, hospitals and health plans
-improves providers' ability to deliver quality care
-assures affordable, quality health care for all Americans
I share your concern about the rising cost of malpractice insurance. The high costs of malpractice insurance are a huge financial burden, affecting doctors' ability to care for their patients and even practice medicine.
I agree that we must address the issue of medical malpractice. This must be done in a way that protects doctors from frivolous lawsuits - and protects patients who suffer because of negligence or preventable injury.
Thanks once again for writing. Please let me know if I can be of assistance in the future.
Sincerely,
Barbara A. Mikulski
United States Senator
One was from David Axelrod, senior advisor to President Obama. Since I write so often to the White House, I am on their mailing list. Basically he wants me to watch Obama's speech from Congress and explain all the positive parts of the President's goals for Health Care Reform. I still haven't figured out how this is not going to cost me in some manner, shape or form. Tomorrow I will share his missive.
The second missive was from Senator Barbara Mikulski regarding medical malpractice and how to bring it under control so doctors can practice offensive medicine as opposed to defensive medicine.
Here is her letter. Let me know what you think.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for getting in touch with me about medical liability and health care reform. It's great to hear from you.
Health care is one of the most important issues facing families and our economy. We absolutely need to pass health reform that:
-reduces costs for providers, families, business and government
-protects people's choice of doctors, hospitals and health plans
-improves providers' ability to deliver quality care
-assures affordable, quality health care for all Americans
I share your concern about the rising cost of malpractice insurance. The high costs of malpractice insurance are a huge financial burden, affecting doctors' ability to care for their patients and even practice medicine.
I agree that we must address the issue of medical malpractice. This must be done in a way that protects doctors from frivolous lawsuits - and protects patients who suffer because of negligence or preventable injury.
Thanks once again for writing. Please let me know if I can be of assistance in the future.
Sincerely,
Barbara A. Mikulski
United States Senator
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Obama faces change
President Obama seems to be doing some shuffling and changing of opinion on two big topics. Health Care Reform is one. He hit five talk shows this morning, trying to explain his plan. He still appears to feel that he knows what is best and even appears to think he is in the category with FDR with the Social Security Bill and LBJ with the introduction of Medicare.
I think Obama should be careful in his comparisons. His health care reform plans still have too many questions and gaps that need filling. How is there not going to be any tax increase on the middle class to pay for the coverage? Whether it is a federal tax increase or a health insurance premium increase, the middle class is going to pick up the bill one way or another.
He seems to be trying to play both ends of the Democratic party, telling some he really wants the public option and others that it is not that important. Rather than tell the plain simple truth, he playing politics, so much for an open, honest administration.
One thing the President definitely should not do is try and force his plan through Congress with no Republican support. I think that action could lead to a public outcry and repercussions that have not be seen in this country for decades. The President needs to learn meaningful compromise if he is going to lead.
The other area is the war in Afghanistan. After initially being gun ho to send in twenty-five thousand fresh troops, now he wants to reconsider sending any more. In truth, it looks like he is now going to consider an entirely new plan for fighting in Afghanistan and deciding what the priorities should be.
Already members of the Democratic are asking for a time table for troop withdrawal, stating that there is little hope for a democratic state in Afghanistan and that it will always be a place of tribal warfare.
Like George W Bush, President Obama promised to put an end to Al-Quaeda and bring in bin Laden. The prospects of him having any success are few.
President Obama came in to the White House with big plans. Reality is finally setting and he's finding that he is no longer the golden boy he thought he was. People are questioning his actions and motives. People are demanding straight answers and challenging vague responses.
America wants answers that aren't going to cost them a fortune. The President needs to start paying attention to what the people are saying, rather than those around him.
Its Common Sense!
I think Obama should be careful in his comparisons. His health care reform plans still have too many questions and gaps that need filling. How is there not going to be any tax increase on the middle class to pay for the coverage? Whether it is a federal tax increase or a health insurance premium increase, the middle class is going to pick up the bill one way or another.
He seems to be trying to play both ends of the Democratic party, telling some he really wants the public option and others that it is not that important. Rather than tell the plain simple truth, he playing politics, so much for an open, honest administration.
One thing the President definitely should not do is try and force his plan through Congress with no Republican support. I think that action could lead to a public outcry and repercussions that have not be seen in this country for decades. The President needs to learn meaningful compromise if he is going to lead.
The other area is the war in Afghanistan. After initially being gun ho to send in twenty-five thousand fresh troops, now he wants to reconsider sending any more. In truth, it looks like he is now going to consider an entirely new plan for fighting in Afghanistan and deciding what the priorities should be.
Already members of the Democratic are asking for a time table for troop withdrawal, stating that there is little hope for a democratic state in Afghanistan and that it will always be a place of tribal warfare.
Like George W Bush, President Obama promised to put an end to Al-Quaeda and bring in bin Laden. The prospects of him having any success are few.
President Obama came in to the White House with big plans. Reality is finally setting and he's finding that he is no longer the golden boy he thought he was. People are questioning his actions and motives. People are demanding straight answers and challenging vague responses.
America wants answers that aren't going to cost them a fortune. The President needs to start paying attention to what the people are saying, rather than those around him.
Its Common Sense!
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