Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Celine, JC-NJ — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 22:44:51 GMT

Good for you Bob! It's about time someone looked at Mass. and how its experiment is faring. I look forward to the reports and thank you for taking on the topic. Hopefully it will prompt a thoughtful discussion.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Joshua Dyson, Cayce, SC — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 23:57:59 GMT

Communism has arrived in America. The day we allow the government to force "health" care on us is the day we should all say "heil hitler." the "health" care is not here to help the good people of America, but to continue to rip us off in this recession. Will the greed ever stop?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Maria Breu, St. Paul, MN — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:02:16 GMT

The Massachusetts program does seem to be a great success in the two years since its implementation, and should definitely serve as a model for the rest of the nation. However, this report was lacking some basic problems with using the Massachusetts program as a model for the entire nation. For example, the % of uninsured in Massachusetts was just under 10%, one of the lowest in the nation before health insurance was required, while the national level is above 16%. Compare that with the uninsured rate of California, which is at nearly 20%. That state has tried a failed several times to implement a universal health care program of its own. I praise this report for bringing attention to the great steps Massachusetts has taken, but it should also be noted that this type of program will not work everywhere or nationwide--Massachusetts was in a much better place to begin with.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Elissa Grant, O'boro, KY. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:06:39 GMT

The Massachusetts system is made to sound fair, and great, but, for those like myself, disabled, with incurable conditions, on a very fixed income(less than 11 thousand a yr), I cannot afford insurance, and I do not qualify for any state or gov't program for healthcare. The "fine" would be a large dent in the income for my family. I am a single parent with two children. I cannot afford health care for myself,I simply do without. All in my position would be Punished for being disabled and having no money.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Dianne Middleton — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:10:29 GMT

I am 62 old woman that had been working part time up until i got sick last Feb. I ended in the hospital for 7 days & a lot of tests too. I was diagnosed with severe Copd & Emphysema(asthma,ocassional stomach problems & allergies). Sent home with oxygen 24/7, which I am still on. If it wasn't for the new health care system in this state I doubt that I would be writing this to you. The whole USA should have the same system that Massachusetts has for health care, no matter what it takes to get it working.....Now to get Insurance to pay for the portable type oxygen would be fantastic..

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

joe c, moyock n.c. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:25:39 GMT

how does this plan help the recently unemployed, that can not even make their morgage payments. will they also be fined for not carrying health insurance.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

sue wb, ma — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:28:30 GMT

Robert,
I usually enjoy your pieces but you have omitted a very important facet of the mandatory Mass Healthcare equation. I am a small busines person who is not only required to release my personal tax info to an insurer even after they have recieved my legally drafted Articles of Incorporation(to prove the existance of my business ) but am also being forced to purchase a prescription drug rider even though my family does not require the use of such drugs. I am perfectly willing to risk the need for such prescriptions as necessary to reduce my already exorbitant healthcare premiums. As a small business person I am paying almost twice as much for less coverage than my state employed counterpart of whom I am also contributing via my already excessive taxes!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Jose R Fernandez-Chinea, Boston, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:34:11 GMT

Mr. Bazell, dig a little deeper and you'll find many in MA with medical insurance that cost substantially more than last year and with deductibles so high one can't use it. Especially single people like me, with no dependents, earning about 29 thousand a year.
I do not qualify for anything, pay about $18.00 more a week for my insurance and have to pay $30 every time I visit my doctor. Which I can't anymore.
For a little background info, I work for The Home Depot and got what is considered a real high pay increase, (.40 cents per hour), which actually adds up to less than my weekly medical insurance premium increase. So for 2009 my take home paycheck is actually less than last year. Oh, and since my work schedule changes every day/week, I haven't found a second job that would schedule me randomly to accommodate Depot. And there are quite a few of us in the predicament.
So go on, dig a little!
This medical insurance law is a good idea that, from where I’m looking, only benefits Insurance Co. and employers.
This is not my opinion, but my present life.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Gloria Maki, Schenectady, NY — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:37:12 GMT

Your coverage of the MA Plan was one-sided, and misrepresented the actual experience of many MA residents. You did not present the negatives in terms of actual costs exceeding projections by hundreds of millions, and the fact that many MA citizens cannot afford available plans, or the plans they can afford really only cover costs associated with catastrophic illness as the dedeductibles are so high. Many would question the 3.3% uninsured rate you cite. Has that figure been verified by credible sources outside of those leading this effort? Did you know there was a referendum on the ballot in 10 districts in MA this past November asking voters whether they wanted their State legislators to repeal laws fining residents who do not have health insurance and creating a Single Payer system? Over 70% of the 180,000 votes cast on this question favored a Single Payer option -- the real answer to achieving affordable, universal health care coverage. I hope you will use this information as the basis for more fact checking and do a follow-up piece that tells the other side of the story. Unfortunately, your story could lead viewers and policy makers to conclude that a MA-like plan is the answer to our national health care debacle. We cannot afford an approach that continues to waste billions on administrative costs and claims rejections by private companies whose main objective is profit-making. Read Don McCanne's daily analysis and help guide public opinion in the right direction so that appropriate health care is available to every American.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Don Schultz, Greentown,IN — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:59:58 GMT

I think if they would allow us to buy into the same insurance that our senators and representative's have, it would allow some of us that are uninsurable,to buy insurance at an affordable rate,and not be a drain on the national budget.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Alice D. Barton, M.D., North Chatham, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 01:10:05 GMT

Bob, The truth of "universal" health care in Massachusetts is that it is not true. I am one of the only physicians in my area who accepts the state health insurance. I actually pay to provide health care for these individuals. If no doctors accept this insurance, how does it provide health care to anyone? Please tell the truth about this.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Mark, Salem, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 01:41:12 GMT

All well and good, but as a self-employed individual, insurance costs $1186/month for my family. There's still room for improvement.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

a registered investment advsior — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 01:41:14 GMT

That is important experiment. I hope the new administration will take a careful look at the result.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Mike, Somewhere better, Not-Mass. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 01:46:35 GMT

Massachusetts: The end of civilization as we know it.

Gay marriage.
De-criminalized marijuana.
Health insurance for everyone.
Low divorce rate.
Some of the best hospitals in the country.
Some of the best colleges in the country.

God, I hope my state doesn't turn out like that.

I miss George Bush already.

Maybe we can get another very religious person who doesn't care to be informed before going with their gut.

If only we had Sarah Palin.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Abe — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 01:49:07 GMT

Previous msnbc.com coverage on the Massachusetts experience is here: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20255585/

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Jeff B, Minneapolis, MN — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 01:53:00 GMT

Succeeded? Clearly someone is coming with a biased opinion on the definition of success. Insurance rates are skyrocketing as the result of mandatory policy benefits, the cost of the program is much, much higher than anticipated and MA is already looking costs that the Governor calls "unsustainable". As the DC Examiner says in a recent article, "To make up the difference, payments to health care providers were slashed, so many doctors and dentists in Massachusetts began refusing to take on new patients. In the state with the highest physician/patient ratio in the nation, some people now have to wait more than a year for a simple physical exam." Who exactly is happy?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Ron Boxborough Ma. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 01:57:32 GMT

Sure is great. Lets do the math. To make it easy lets use a figure like 100k income. Take home 65K. Privet insurance 12K. Deductibles 3K. Total 15K if you need it of course. That sure looks like 25% of you take home pay. And if your income is 50k well you can add. How come no one ever talks about this? Great plan!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Dan Armstrong, Braintree, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 01:59:37 GMT

Robert, I live in Braintree, MAandeveryone I know in Massahchusetts, including talk show hosts, are saying what a total failure and burden to teh residents this Healthcare disaster has been. The only people who are benefitting are Health insurance companies whilce those who can least afford insurance are now being penalized the most. Dump this article...its pure fiction.

Dan Armstrong
Braintree, MA

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

C Kelley — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:01:44 GMT

I am a MA professional in mental health care services. Many of my clients cannot afford the premiums of their new insurance, nor their prescription co-pays. They are also finding that many of the new insurance programs don't cover a lot of basic kinds of mental/medical visits/diagnoses. While this is a step forward with the best of intentions, it is also VERY misleading to the general public in the US. Important for Mr. Obama and his staff to know.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Ed, Lake Mary, FL — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:02:16 GMT

It's too bad this plan didn't get more attention during the GOP Primaries, as it was something for which Romney should have received more credit. While he didn't do all of it himself, it was his leadership that got the job done with a Democratic legislature. The GOP deserves everything that happened to them after letting Huckabee and McCain outshout a more reasonable candidate than Romney. (Of course, Romney's religion didn't help either, but it shouldn't have hurt him like it did).

Maybe in 2016 Romney will try again...(I'm hoping Obama is successful enough to warrant another term)...and hopefully he will implement some of Massachusetts' (and Romney's) health care plan.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

John S., Boston, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:02:20 GMT

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Glenn Meadows, Nashville, TN — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:06:14 GMT

Bob, you should also look at the failed attempts here in Tennessee, called TennCare. We need something that for sure is less expensive. Our company has 18 employees, and writes a check every month for health care of close to $20,000, and not all employees accepted the coverage, as they're covered by their spouse.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Eva Pinehurst, Idaho — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:06:14 GMT

Why oh Why does this health care thing have to be so hard? If they can do it why can't it be done everywhere? The savings would be so great in the long run if we could have health care for everyone. I just cannot understand why this has to be so hard to bring about.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Dan D'Auria, Tabernacle, NJ — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:08:21 GMT

I certainly don't know the reimbursement rates for Medicaid in Massachusetts, but if it is anything like that of NJ then most physicians will either choose not to accept it or simply end up going out of business. My practice would essentially go bankrupt if I were forced to subsist on revenues earned from Medicaid payments. Frankly I couldn't afford to pay my employees and malpractice, never mind everything else.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Rob J, Kingston, NY — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:09:18 GMT

Insurance Companies are generally supportive because from what I've read, the bulk of the newly insured have gone through Medicaid. As a result, Medicaid costs have exploded and the state is trying to figure out how to pay for the coverage.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Ron Henry — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:10:21 GMT

As a resident of Massachusetts I can tell you that this " health care experiment" is nothing short of a disaster. The following article sums up just a few of the MAJOR issues.. ( And I love when government "experiments" with my (taxpayers) hard earned money)
"Small businesses with more than 10 employees were required to provide health insurance or pay an extra fee to subsidize uninsured low-income residents, yet the overall costs of the program increased more than $400 million – 85 percent higher than original projections. To make up the difference, payments to health care providers were slashed, so many doctors and dentists in Massachusetts began refusing to take on new patients. In the state with the highest physician/patient ratio in the nation, some people now have to wait more than a year for a simple physical exam.

The irony is that Massachusetts officials reluctantly admitted that, despite increased enrollment, the state is still far from universal coverage – the original goal of the landmark law. To make matters worse, Massachusetts is grappling with a multibillion-dollar deficit while Democratic Gov. Deval Patrick desperately tries to slow down those still-spiraling health care costs, which he said last week were “not sustainable.”

If this sounds just like Canadian-style socialized medicine, that’s because it is. We Massachusetts residents now pay more for less access to health care, yet our state still has an uninsured problem!

And this is just the tip of the iceburg folks...

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Bruce, Sault MI — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:10:59 GMT

Massachusetts also has a refreshing approach to the homeless. If we don't take care of our poor, who will. WHEN we do, we return to the greatest country on the planet, and can begin to address the planets issues.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Jesse, Massachusetts — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:12:31 GMT

Its not working in mass. I don't know what statistics you are using or what group of people are taking the test but everyone I know hates it. Forcing someone to pay for health insurance is ridiculous, and this was only done because this state is full of profiteering politicians and dishonest "public servants" who probably took money from the insurance companies to come up with this. It also increased the prices of insurance for every person except the few people who are getting it because they are below the poverty line. Sorry, I am not a socialist, but this does not help the majority of the people.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Dee Tupelo — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:14:43 GMT

What a joke... Funny that this article doesn't mention that Mass has the highest health care costs BY FAR... or that 2/3rds of the " Newly insureds " are getting FREE Insurance because it's so unaffordable and bankrupting the program. AKA Insurance Welfare... or our 20% per year increases. Sound Good America?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

HT — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:15:41 GMT

What media hype! TennCare (TN's version) was touted for several years as a success (with some suggesting it be a roll-model for national universal care too). It got so underfunded they had to cut the plan down.

MA's plan is barely two years old. The bills have not had time to come home to roost. It needs at least five years before medals are handed out.

Additionally, MA has a population/culture that is different from much of the US and the costs will be different as well.

The US already has 50+ Billion in unfunded Medicare/Medicaid/Social Security promises. The states are in heavy debt too. Bush/Obama has already (or wants to) add several Trillion $ to the national debt in the last 8 months alone. Now is not the time to kid ourselves that we can afford to make more promises.

The US needs to grow up and face the harsh realities rushing at us...not add liabilities and more debt to foreigners. We need to save more than 1% (how do those poor Chinese manage to save 35%?).

HT

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Rita B. Boston, Mass — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:19:11 GMT

MAssachusetts Experiment is essentially a failure. Physicians cannot afford to accept the rates offered by the "Connector", employees cannot afford to buy it and the coverage that it offers is spotty and insufficient. Employers have an impossible administrative and financial burden of submitting quarterly (!) reports to the state and to track changing eligibility criteria. Most employees that initially got insurance through this plan, now gave it up because it is still costly and ineffective.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Leonid, FL — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:19:27 GMT

The real measurement is how it reduced medical insurence cost. Because author "forget" to mention it - probably they have big increase instead of drop. Romny did his best to accomodate inavitable in the most liberal state, but wisely refused to be easily re-elected, and with a good reason - MA state is a big bad bancrupt now, and it is even before the end of special Federal dotations, assigned for this experiment.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Daniel Grady, Grand Rapids, Michigan — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:21:28 GMT

Bob: I hope that in one of the two parts you talk about the cost. My understanding is that the costs are significantly higher than projected and state is struggling with how to pay for it. I suspect the residents will be less satisfied when they see the real cost and either their co-pay or their taxes go up.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Brad, Taunton, Ma — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:22:01 GMT

As someone from Mass I can say this experiment is a joke. Insurance costs have not dropped, instead people have to pay a fine dirrectly out of their paycheck as punishment for not affording insurance. Meanwhile companies offer a plan at a rate far higher than most private insurance companies so that they can avoid paying penalties for not offering it while also not having to deal with providing any insurance to their employees.

Also lets not forget that if you are not insured due to such issues as lack of funding because of a low paying job then you are not allowed to attend public schools. That means gaining a college degree to advance your career and hopefully earn enough to afford insurance is out of the question. And the expanding limits for the state funded insurance (MassHealth) only broadened enough to cover those who have recently lost jobs to the failing economy. Those who are underemployed and living paycheck to paycheck are still left out in the cold.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Steve K, Boston, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:22:11 GMT

As a resident of Massachussetts, I can say the health care system isn't all its cracked up to be. I could vent for hours, but I am unsure if Massachussetts is to blame or Blue Cross Blue Shield is. Many doctors here do not accept insurance plans, and the ones that do are so flooded with patients that I wish you the best of luck finding care in under 3 months.I have considered traveling out of state to see a doctor on more than one occasion, and this is coming from somebody who does not own a car.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Tim Mullins, Pound, VA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:25:11 GMT

We desperately need a cure for health care in America, or at least what is considered the acceptable standards of health care on record in East Tennessee. Google wisecountyissues.com and see what I am talking about...

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Scott Benoit, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:28:52 GMT

Some things that are not talked about is the fact that this is a huge burden on the state budget. Also that you are basically fined if you chose not to get insurance. So much for freedom.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

nick panza — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:29:15 GMT

Great report - the richest and greatest nation on earth should be able to provide health coverage for its citizens without people having to lose everything. Likewise Doctors should be helped with malpractice insurance and Medical school costs -

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Timothy L — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:29:16 GMT

medicaid can pay 15 dollars for an office visit, can anyone afford to practice medicine on that. I hope the plans will pay like medicare instead of medicaid

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Tara Butler, Leesburg, Al. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:30:42 GMT

I don't agree with forced health care and that is what they are talking about here. Americans should not be forced to buy insurance of any kind, they should choose to do so. The way the government could help would be not to be beholden to the insurance companies through lobbyist, regulate the companies and let compitition work.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Mike, Auburn MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:31:26 GMT

Wake up people, it isn't working here in Mass. All it's done here is unexpectedly double the size of the medicaid program and give more free health care to those who chose not to work. One way or the other it all still comes out of our tax dollars here, so whether they go to the ER for uninsured care or they use Medicaid...I'm still paying for it. Why do you think they call it Taxachusetts??

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

jen detroit mi — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:32:26 GMT

Oh poor Dan. Im sooooo tired of hearing cry baby doctors say how they aren't making any money. Learn how to run a business, and don't blame medicaid for your short comings. Most often times doctors don't have any idea how to run a busines. You put unskilled individuals in charge of some of the most important aspects of the business like billing and managing. Given the state of healthcare one would think you would be open minded and not crying like a big buffoon.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

D.,Hendersonville NC — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:33:34 GMT

People are leaving MA in droves to escape the great programs!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

History PhD — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:37:49 GMT

Mandatory health insurance? I thought the idea was to make insurance available/affordable to every American who wanted it, not force everyone to buy something they don't feel they want or need, and in some cases couldn't afford if it only cost $10 a month. And yes, everything comes with a price tag. The states which currently provide the most health care are also the ones with the largest budget deficits.....which we will all be bailing out if Obama's $800 Billion "stimulus" package is approved.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Michael C Wesport, Mass — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:39:01 GMT

I'm a primary care physician coming from the military. The Mass model corrects 1/2 the problem. It does provide health care for hospital and emergent care. The problem with Mass Health or similar plans is identical to medicaid and medicare, it pays little $ to the doctors seeing them, does not cover preventive services(physicals, screening tests) and the amount of paperwork to get simple medications is too much. And what makes this more frustrating is that the people typically with these insurances are the people with the worst lifestyles and highest expectations. But solving 1/2 the problem is a start. My solution for the other 1/2 is cover preventive exams every 2 years and charge co-pays on office and er visits

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

tom nesheim clintonville wi — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:39:42 GMT

I think the Mass. plan is missing the mark...we need to illiminate insurance companies from health care altogether. They are just middle men siphoning money out of the system and driving up health care costs. We need a govt paid for plan like the rest of the developed countries in the world have. Just because something is govt run doesnt mean its bad. Look at our police and fire depts and also public schools. And we can get the money we need to pay for it by cutting the military budget. Also govt paid for health care would be a great relief for individuals as well as small and large companies thaat wont have to foot the bill.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Scott Dickinson Raleigh, NC — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:42:57 GMT

And last I knew, this program was subsidized by the Federal Government to the tune of hundreds of millions. They tried this in Kentucky, guess what, BC/BS went to two thousand a month.

The myth of the uninsured is just that, a myth. Sure there are a few people that fall the cracks, but you do not want Federally run health care. We help poor people with Medicaid. Leave it up to competition, competition, is and always will be the answer.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Mike P Burlington, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:43:46 GMT

I live in Massachusetts (also known as Taxachusetts), and our dear state has solved *nothing*. What the state legislature has done, is develop a way to fine people who can't afford health insurance, but do not want the extremely poor quality health care offered by the state. let's ask ourselves: when has a government, state or otherwise EVER offered anything of competitive quality? Anyone?

Massachusetts provided no solution. It has only provided a way to force people to take something of poor quality, and that extremely few physicians will accept, or pay a fine (a tax). Isn't that a great thing?

If I lose my health insurance, Im out of here: New Hampshire here we come.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Dewayne C, Memphis, Tn — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:44:01 GMT

The whole things needs overhauling from top to bottom. Sure the Mass. idea is much more than anyone else is doing, but I believe it's doomed to failure under the current system. First and foremost, insurance companies need to just go away. They are the deepest root of the problem. Second, we must reign in prescription drug cost, and lastly reorganize the health care model. One that needs to include everyone from the cardio-thoracic surgeon to the EMT on the ambulance. Where the system works just as hard at keeping people healthy and out of hospital emergency rooms as it does on finding a cure for cancer. Idealistic? Yes. Possible? If the government (read "politicians") ever gets bold enough to shun all of the campaign money received from big insurance and drug companies and the American public finally realize that national health care for everyone will only improve our way of life as a whole. I know it sounds socialist (and maybe it is, but I am most definitely NOT a socialist or even a liberal for that matter), but after having spent 20 years in the health care industry I have come to realize that this is the only possible solution to an absolutely horrible situation. Medicare is an excellent model to begin with. It at least provides a proven framework from which to start. But alas, all I see in the future is more political rhetoric and insurance companies making more money. Don't worry about the working class that get absolutely no help paying for the much needed insurance that they can't afford to pay for, but can't risk being with out.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Scott Rankin — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:45:28 GMT

Robert,
The Massachusetts plan is a faulted plan. How much money has the Government, (our tax dollars), poured into the plan and it still has not been successfull.
Hey, lets model the American system like Canada's or any other failed system- great idea right!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Mike P — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:45:48 GMT

Scott B says above:

"Some things that are not talked about is the fact that this is a huge burden on the state budget. Also that you are basically fined if you chose not to get insurance. So much for freedom.
Scott Benoit, MA"

Thanks Scott. Lets take a state that can't balance their budget, a tiny state population wise, that provides a health care system by force, that no one wants. Yes, lets use that as a national template. Fine idea.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Mike in Massachusetts — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:47:11 GMT

This is an amazingly superficial article. The health connector in Massachusetts is running a HUGE deficit. The state has been borrowing FORWARD to cover the huge budget gaps. All of that is going to come due very soon and there is no money to cover the losses. All of this information is readily available if someone wants to actually look into it. Instead, people want to accept generalities, flowery prose and flat out BS. We should be able to come up with a national health care system, but this is NOT it.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

D B, New York City — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:48:14 GMT

I don't know who the TV Man talked to, but my family and friends in Mass. tell me that this plan has several flaws: First of all, you HAVE to buy insurance or pay a fine. Second, the insurance you have to buy if your employer (assuming you have an employer) doesn't provide it is not inexpensive. (Oh, it's inexpensive if you're Mitt Romney or a Mass. senator). Third, many doctors and facilities are not accepting the state insurance plan. I'm sure the plan is swell for the insurance companies. And if this becomes the template for the nation, god help us all and pray you don't get sick. It's a boondoggle.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Brad, Plano TX — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:50:05 GMT

All I will say is that NO GOVERNMENT will ever make me have halth insurance if I do not want it. That is ludicris! I can understand working with companies to make sure that their employees get care, but fineing them money will only hurt small companies in the long run. Horrible idea

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Kit — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:50:24 GMT

Health insurance works when everyone can get a group rate. Even without my employer's pay-in, it would be affordable for me. But the problem is I can't get a group rate should I lose it and so the cost would be prohibitive. If everyone were in the same pool, all citizens would be covered at a fair price, and employers could add their share to salary. It would be far cheaper for everyone. Also, each company would not have to negotiate separately, saving them more money.

People scream at socialized medicine and forget that's exactly what medicare is and to a certain degree similar to HMOs. Maybe it's more of a marketing problem than a health care problem.

If everyone is covered costs go down - more preventative care catches stuff early when it's cheaper and less emergency room treatment, another unnecessary cost.

It's a matter of getting everyone on board and selling it properly. Because everyone wants good health care coverage.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Mike {P — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:51:07 GMT

"I certainly don't know the reimbursement rates for Medicaid in Massachusetts, but if it is anything like that of NJ then most physicians will either choose not to accept it or simply end up going out of business. My practice would essentially go bankrupt if I were forced to subsist on revenues earned from Medicaid payments. Frankly I couldn't afford to pay my employees and malpractice, never mind everything else.
Dan D'Auria, Tabernacle, NJ"

You're right Dan. GOOD BLOODY LUCK Finding a physician that take MassHealth. Its another subsidy for the health insurance companies, that provide worse and worse service every year. Massachusetts has solved *nothing*.

Just where DID you get all of those "satisfied customers"? It sounds like a rigged study to me.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

SOCIALISM IN MASSACHUSETTS — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:51:58 GMT

I am moving to another state after paying my income taxes. This state has become a totalitarian one.
Since the moment they forced us to get a private medical insurance , everything went wrong.
Wait until the economy colapse, what is our brilliant governor gonna do?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

JERRY,PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:52:30 GMT

SINGLE FATHER OF 6YR. OLD TWINS IN TEXAS....COST $870 MONTH SELF INSURED...BREAKING MY BANK WITH THE COST OF OTHER ESSENTIALS JUST TO LIVE...IT'S TO THE POINT I AM FIXING TO DROP COVERAGE ON MYSELF BUT I CAN'T DO IT UNTIL I HAVE A NECESSARY BACK OPERATION IN ORDER TO BE ABLE TO GO BACK TO WORK AND BE ABLE TO RAISE MY YOUNG GIRLS....IF I CAN FIND A JOB AGAIN!!!....WELFARE LOOKS TO BE THE ONLY FUTURE IN SITE!!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Rob, New York, NY — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:53:31 GMT

The reality of Massachusetts' socialized medical care is that the people who aren't participating in it are the ones who are satisfied. These people (in the rest of the U.S. they are called leftist Democrats) feel all warm and fuzzy inside at the thought of everyone being covered by Medicaid. Doctors in New York are turning more and more Medicaid patients away due to the lousy reimbursement they receive from the state. Same is also true in Massachusetts and other far left regions of the country. NBC News conveniently left this fact out of this puff piece. Yep, no agenda there. Hopefully Republicans will have the votes to block former Senate Plurality Leader Tom Daschle's universal socialized medicine from ever seeing the light of day.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Chris - Cumberland, RI — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:54:02 GMT

WHAT!?! who writes this stuff!?! Mass health care is very very unaffordable! I live in Rhode Island just because they have a high deductiable program (I never use my insurance) - I pay $172 a month! The LOWEST priced insurance in MA that I could find was $550!!!

Why wouldnt MA allow such a program? If someone wants a high deductiable... why not?

Get real...

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Brian Goettl — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:55:22 GMT

Judging from the comments to this story from those who have actual knowledge of the system, especially those from residents of Massachusetts, it looks like Mr. Bazell is just making things up. But then again, what do you expect from the Old School media. They abandoned journalistic integrity some time ago.

By the way, our national health care plan for seniors,(Medicare for those who voted for Obama) is trillions of dollars in debt and getting worse each year. It seems that adding to a losing system is borderline insane. Not to mention that the non-partisan comptrolled general of the U.S. has stated that the U.S. is financially insolvent Let's add even more to the debt with unaffordable health care for all.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Ben Carlton — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:56:51 GMT

"the residents of the state are overwhelmingly satisfied."

That is not true. 85% of my associates disagree.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Richard Armstrong — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:56:57 GMT

The Massachusetts system is simply a failure! Look closely at what it has done to the state budget. Also, carefully remember that being insured does not equate with being able to get care. Primary care is a disaster. When you insure people with an inadequate number of primary care physicians, it's a recipe for disaster.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Neil Cagle — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:58:43 GMT

It is apparent from the comments that the pay scale for medical practitioners is so low that many, if not most, don't accept it. When I saw how much it was costing, I realized that their costs were as high as ours were through our employer. When we compare the costs in the US to those of foreign countries, we quickly realize that the doctors are just having to pay too much for their malpractice insurance. If we want to lower the cost of insurance, we need to severely limit the size of medical judgements (and learn to accept that doctors are going to make human mistakes). Of course this won't happen, because the lobby from attorneys won't even let this be considered in the state legislatures around the country.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Elizabeth — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:59:24 GMT

I would find a way to opt out of the "establishment" if something like this came to my town. Fined for not having health insurance? This is absurd. Completely absurd.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Linda Slover, Melbourne, FL — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:59:44 GMT

How about working through the public health system? Put up good clinics in neighborhoods - run by nurse practioners on a sliding scale fee. Promote health rather than treat illness. Hold all citizens accountable for their health, no law suits when you drink too much alcohol, are overweight and underactive, smoke, take illegal drugs, are medically noncompliant. Reduce law suit settlements from the above population, reduce the cost of medicine by reducing defensive medicine. Encourage training family practice physicians rather than high paying specialties. Cut red tape and get to a simpler affordable plan. If someone wants upgrades and can afford them, let them be available. Cut the waste in the Emergency Rooms by re writing the EMTALA regulations. Overburdeoned medical offices tell their patients "go to the Emergency Room" the most expensive family practice clinic there is. Use common sense, preventive medicine, accountability, and structures already in place. Think practical and spare. Not everybody get to drive a lexus.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Alan B. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:03:28 GMT

Let's see how many african-americans, illegals from Mexicao and Cuba do they have? Whats the unemployment rate? Since it is arguable the most liberial state in the union, I doubt very seriously this is a good "example" state for state sponcered health care!!! Let's try say california, or Texas first.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Greg Travalio, Columbus OH — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:04:32 GMT

I would like honesty in the health care debate, whether it be about the Massachusetts program or other health care proposals. We want four things from the health care system: (1) choice of providers; (2) no rationing (either directly or through long delays for certain procedures); (3) excellent care; (4) affordability. Politicians of all stripes continue to falsely tell us that these are not mutually exclusive desires. Any system will deliver at least one of these, many systems can deliver two or three, but NONE can deliver all four. We need to admit that and make tough decisions as to how much of each of these we are willing to compromise. If any politican tells you we can have it all, they are lying. You cannot have excellent care from whomever you want, as much as you want, whenever you want, at an affordable cost. It's that simple. While Massachusetts will inevitably have to compromise on one or more of the above demands (and the TV series should make this clear, if it is to be honest and not merely propoganda), at least Mass. is making the effort to improve on what is admittedly a broken system.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Thomas Cresswell, Lakewood, CA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:04:34 GMT

How about the below which pretty much says this persons article is propaganda:

Lisa Poplaski - Pittsfield, Massachusetts

Mandatory Private Insurance Is Unaffordable

I think most people don't realize the consequences of this insurance mandate in Massachusetts because they have insurance at work or they're getting some other subsidy. They don't realize the full cost. But they could be in our situation someday.

Until this year we had health coverage through my husband's employer for about $300 a month with drug coverage. It was a good policy. But he lost that job and was out of work for 8 1/2 months. He finally got another IT job but with no benefits. We've been paying the doctor out of pocket when we need to and considering we are quite healthy that suits us just fine.

Now the state is forcing us to buy "health insurance" we don't need. The worst thing is they treat us like criminals. We always paid our taxes, our bills, and any other financial commitment, but this unjustified expense is not of our choosing.

We are in our late 40s. The only policy that would work for us - based on the state guidelines - costs about $720 a month, not including co-payments. That's far more than our total medical expenses have been up to now. There were slightly cheaper premiums but with high deductibles, so they wouldn't actually be cheaper.

Premiums are totally outrageous in this Ponzi scheme. Our income will be too high to get the subsidized coverage, but not enough to afford $720 a month. The state won't take into account our hardship or our loss of savings. You have to be practically homeless or in foreclosure before they'll give a waiver.

While my husband was out of work, we struggled but paid all of our bills by using our savings, breaking a CD and paying a penalty with each withdrawal.

Now we want to put a few hundred dollars back into savings every month. But if we had to pay for insurance, we'd have no savings, and we'd also have to deplete our CD.

We feel like we made reasonable choices and tried to save a little when we could. We are responsible, law-abiding citizens and we're being punished just as we're getting back on our feet.
First, if we don't buy the insurance before December 31, we'll lose our state tax deduction. Then, beginning January 2008 the state will bill us for up to half the cost, even though we'd be getting nothing for it. This feels like a scam to make money for the insurance companies and even the state.

What they call "health insurance" is in reality a walloping tax.

We are taking this one month at a time. Having lived in Massachusetts for 22 years, we have ties here, including family. We don't want to leave but we feel forced out.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Dawn — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:05:11 GMT

This "experiment" does not address the illegal immigrant population and their continued cost to all taxpayers. The drain they place on the health care system, doctors and hospitals included. The "rates" that people are paying for health care have this "loss" built into it. Hospitals and doctors not unlike retail companies like WalMart must add losses into the cost of their goods and services thereby passing the cost onto those that do pay. Unfortunately the laws that govern hospitals "require" them to treat anyone presenting to the emergency room........whether it is an emergency or not. I work in a hospital and the amount of people using the emergency room for things like the common cold are amazing. The illegals know that they can not be turned away because of the law so they are treated........they don't pay and the cost goes on to you and me. There is no consequence for them to stop doing it because they don't have a social security number and due to that it doesn't affect their credit like the rest of us. They don't worry about being reported for being illegal because the hospital doesn't have the ability or the resources to deal with it. So until there are laws in place that only true emergencies must be accepted at emergency rooms and we quit passing out free services to those that are not legally here the people who are citizens will continue to suffer.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Arlin Carlson,Minnepolis,Mn — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:06:55 GMT

Thanks for caaying the spory. I do doubt such suceed can be copied because the are not enough primay care doctors, and with 47 million potenial consumers,the system will break down from over overload. The would advocate a National healh care assetment, to help break the problen to magemable segments. Acte contutios are not the same thing as a twent year older who is too lazy or cheap to buy coverage. Acute issue demand inneate attention.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Dr. Welby, Boston, Ma — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:06:56 GMT

I live in Massachusetts, the plan is a collasal failure. Rates are too high, too many flaws in the
ointment.

And with the huge buget deficit I have to wonder if the plan will be killed off soon.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

LOIS CROSS WILLIAMSBURG MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:07:20 GMT

MA only requires employers to provide insurance. Employees are left with poor expensive insurance that needs state asstance. The application process takes weeks& delays care Primary care MDs are in extremely short supply because of poor reimbursements. So those
appointments take 3 to 6 months to get. Then tests &
specialist appointments take weeks to move through.
This was what we were supposed to encounter with a Federal Health Care System. Well its here now!!!
Except this is expensive to state tax payers and employees
The current system of profiteering companies who blame patients demands for the costs of health care is insane. Its the greed of companies that raise costs.
A single payer system jointly suppoted by FED/STATE EMPLOYEES/EMPLOYERS IS MUCH FAIRER
This is too big a problem for any state to manage without asssistance

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Danny, Kansas City, KS — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:07:26 GMT

The only way to lower insurance costs is to reduce the amount the greedy doctor's, nurse's, drug manufactures, medical equipment suppliers, lawyers, and hospital owners are making! All insurance Underwriters do is try to figure out what outrageous charges they are going to have to pay these people for the following year. Dig deeper and you will see the real problem is the cost that these people earn on a yearly basis!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Chad Downstate IL — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:08:02 GMT

You want to help Doctors with malpractice insurance?
Pass tort reform so that lawyers don't keep suing doctors for millions of dollars over every slip up. I'm an insurance agent and I agree health insurance is a huge problem. Why not lower the Medicare eligble age to 55. This would leave the under 55 crowd left to purchase private insurance. Under 55 on average means less health problems and less premiums paid. This approach would also prevent people from being forced to keep working to 65 just so they have health coverage. Complete Universal health care only works in some very small nations in Europe. The U.S is to populated to pull this off.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Dan Stevens, Bonney Lake, Washington — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:09:37 GMT

I often wonder why the policy makers never question where the high premiums come from in the first place. It certainly has been a shock to me that my insurance rates have quadrupled in the last twelve years or so. I know inflation and such have gone up but the proportions are way off. Where does MY premium go????

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Mike P — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:10:17 GMT

None of these awful proposals, and the extremely bad one used here in Massachusetts, solves the core problems. Lets look at a few:
1) I made an appointment to see a doctor for stomach problems. I made the appointment in August 2008, and the *earliest* I could get to see a specialist was late November. And I have good insurance, at least now. Two weeks before the appointment, the doctors office called and pushed the appointment back another month. So, it took almost 4 months to see a stomach doctor. I saw the doctor for less than 10 minutes, I felt I got "the bums rush". The cost of that 9 or so minutes? $635.00. This amounts to about 5 million dollars a year income between the doctor and hospital. For *one* doctor. If I were forced to use the MassHealth plan, do you think Id have been able to see this doctor at all? I think not. And, how is the MassHealth "plan" solving the basic problem of of $6,500 dollars *an hour* for a fairly poor doctor? Where is the "solution"< I don't see it!!!
2) My brother has had dry skin problems his whole life. Recently, his doctor prescribed one of the "miracle" drugs we're seeing these days. The cost? $55,000.00 a YEAR for one pill a week. This is not a life saving drug, and it has awful side effects for immune system. How is the "plan" solving this problem?
3) When I was in college, a friend of my fathers had cosmetic surgery to remove fat around her stomach area. You've heard of "liposuction", this ws similar. It was *entirely* elective. After she recovered from the procedure, she discovered that her belly button was about 1/2" off center. She sued and recieved over a million dollars. This was in the late 1980's. FOR ELECTIVE SURGERY FOR FAT REMOVAL!!!

How are any of these "plans" solving any of the core problems of reducing cost internally and for frivilous lawsuits? I think they're not!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Fred S. Fishkill NY — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:10:19 GMT

When I was in my 20's I CHOSE not to purchase health insurance with the intent to save money in order to purchase a house and have some money left in the bank so my wife would not have to work when we had kids. Once I turned 30 I began to purchase health insurance; now (pushing 40) we have a house and my wife is a stay at home Mom. If the state had mandated that I spend $11k plus for a decade I would not have been able to achieve what I have noted above. Maybe we should allow "the people" determine what is best for them and not teach our kids that the government knows best.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Chris — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:11:26 GMT

As a medical student, I am currently in $118,000 in debt and I have one more year left to go. Becoming a doctor may be one of the biggest mistakes we have done. Keep in mind that I am doing 4 years of college....4 years of medical school....3 years in Internal medicine...2-3 years in a subspecialty. Do the math...
4+4+3+2=13 years of becoming a doctor and now they want us to work for nothing. Thanks to Obama....hard work is not going to be rewarded...Its called personal responsibility something Americans don't really have. I can't tell how many times I have seen obese, hypertensive, & diabetic patients that eventually going into chronic renal failure. Maybe preventative medicine should get more funding b/c that will cut the costs significantly.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Robert, Edmonton, Canada — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:13:38 GMT

Here in Alberta the gov just scrapped the monthly premium for healthcare altogether.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Pam, Boston, Mass. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:15:28 GMT

I agree with other Mass residents that this article is misleading and the "experiment" is not all it's cracked up to be. For the countless readers, you really need to do more research. I am lucky in that I am in the healthcare field - doctors tend to view us as responsible patients, and out of professional courtesy, agree to accept us as patients. For the rest of the community, forget it. There is such an unbelievable shortage of primary care physicians in this state that many practices have closed themselves to new patients or provide suboptimal care. There is a long waiting list to see a doctor for routine health care maintenance. Solving the insurance puzzle is a very small piece of the experiment. The problem will not be fixed until, quite honestly, more people start taking more accountability for their own health, including diet, exercise, and lifestyle. I had better luck with healthcare in Ohio.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Augusto, Hartford, CT — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:15:48 GMT

Bob, I just read all of the comments to date. Not one from Massachusetts had anything positive to say.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Retired MD and former co-premed student with RBazell — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:16:32 GMT

The solution will require wage and price controls for
all things medical, including pharmaceuticals, and
inhibition of patient overutilization. Any intermediaries inserted between providers and consumers must be specifically defined and monitored with a vengeance to avoid re-creation of the wasteful politcoparasitic mechanism currently in place.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

George M, Half Moon Bay, CA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:21:27 GMT

I'm not sure what the good folks of MA are complaining about, in terms of costs, anyway. Here in CA, my wife and baby daughter and I all have to be on separate plans because of my pre-existing condition, and the fact my wife is still interested in maternity coverage. Our three policies a month cost $1295, and two of the policies have $500 deductibles each. If you add up the out-of-pocket plus the monthly costs, we are spending about $18,000 for a family of three each year. I, too, would like to see universal coverage, low cost, wide physician acceptance, low government outlay, etc, etc... and I can tell you that the system as it exists currently in CA doesn't do a very good job of it.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Tim, Milwuakee WI — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:21:29 GMT

Hmmm. I heard that they couldn't afford it at the level that they are at right now (the state that is) and that it is heading in the same direction as Hawaii (that is that it is bankrupt). I also know someone on the program that is waiting more than 6 months for a check up. This story is just propaganda, not reporting. Tell the truth and report the news and stop trying to sell the public on your agenda.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

dd ma — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:23:39 GMT

misleading...pure misleading!! and if others follow us in our states footsteps..people(except for the rich)are going to regret how awful it really is.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

R Allen, Springdale, AR — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:24:13 GMT

I have worked in health care for over 40 years. EMT, Paramedic, Medical Technician. I know the problems that are being faced by hospitals, doctors, and others in the health care field. Rising costs vs lower payments from Medicare/Medicaid. How can this help a low income individual to have healthe care if no one will accept it?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

nate k — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:24:35 GMT

more media bias from slanted/uninformed repoters. the plan costs way too much and very restrictive/punitive. americans waste way too much money on health care by going to the doctor for every little thing. we want all the health care we can get for nothing. privatizing health care would force people to spend wisely. it would result in more competition from insurance companies to lower premiums by getting rid of prohibitive state laws that monopolize the industry. new innovative types of plans in regard to items covered and age groups would emerge.

another thing that must be addressed is end of life care expenses. of all the money one spends on health care, much of it is near death. money is wasted left and right on surgeries and treatments that are extremely costly yet only prolong life for extra months. insurance companies should not have to cover this unless individuals want to pay on their own or with a rider.

socialization kills innovation and choice and will eventually be too costly. privatiztion requires responsibilty but would succeed. of course most of this country's problems have to do with companies, government, and individuals being irresponsible by asking for and encouraging social welfare.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Brook — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:24:53 GMT

Reading resident comments -- the jury is in and this is a failure -- predictably. Look folks, only 3% of people below age 65 have costs > $ 30K per year. Yet, these people create the greatest burden. If the government is going to get involved, doesn't it make sense to start there? You offer catastrophic insurance that splits the risk with the insurance companies to lower premiums. The impact on the existing system is minimal, sice re-insurance companies do this already, but the impact to premiums should be significant. Toss in insurance and tort reform to kick in another 10% reduction in costs, and you get affordable health insurance.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Joe Cola, SC — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:25:21 GMT

I like it - higher cost of living, lower quality of life. Yes, I will move to Mass.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Bob, Saratoga Springs, N.Y. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:26:17 GMT

This program is not perfect, to be sure. BUT.. where do we start? Where and when will America start to insure any and all?! Insurance is exceedingly complicated, as any MD will tell you. BUT, we MUST start somewhere. The Massachusetts plan is a very good start. This plan was drafted before this economy came crashing down, and when we return to a more favorable economy, we will see plans like this do even better than we could have guessed.
This is something that will benefit the Massachusetts economy in ways that we never dreamed of. All of the negatives that are being eliminated, are still doing so now, during an economic downturn. When the snowball starts rolling the other way, we will know that this is a good plan. Even if there are things that need to be fixed along the way. At least we started SOMEWHERE! This will work.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Joe M, Cardiologist, Jacksonville, FL — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:26:32 GMT

Why is it that the positive comments have come from those outside MA? Seems the citizens of MA are not so convinced they have a good deal.

In my opinion, the core issue is that the "consumer" of medical services is no longer directly connected to the "provider". Every month you send your money away to a big company whose primary goal is to increase dividends for its shareholders. And when you see your doctor, he/she must essentially beg your big company to send ever decreasing amounts of your money to reimburse him/her for the service provided. And many times the type of care you can receive is dictated by an anonymous worker bee at the big company who hasn't examined you, listened to your problems, and doesn't know anything about whether or not you actually need the care your physician recommends. Remember, their job is to protect the profit margin of the 'for profit' big company.

Perhaps the reason more and more physicians (not "healthcare providers") are deciding not to accept insurance or participate in these shell games is because we want to return to a time when we had a relationship with our patients (not "healthcare consumers") that was based on mutual respect and trust. Most people still value this type of a relationship.

I look forward to the day when the American public wakes up and realizes that they are directly responsible for their own health, that the insurance providers are interested only in large profits (no matter what they may say in their slick advertising brochures), and that the vast majority of young people who choose to become physicians do so because they generally love science and helping people.

Pray that the leaders of our great land are wise enough to listen to the public and not the healthcare lobbyists.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Joa Azona — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:26:47 GMT

Isnt this working over in the UK and other parts of the world?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Laurel Tyler, Memphis, TN — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:27:06 GMT

Great start to something great and extremely necessary in the United States. As a registered nurse, I am excited about the promise of this plan and others like it designed to ENable Americans, and not DISable them.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Janet McLaren, Garland, TX — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:27:18 GMT

I can't buy it -- this plan still pays insurance companies instead of doctors. How did anyone ever believe that the butting-into-the-medical-system of huge for-profit 3rd-party bureaucracies paying CEOs millions of dollars could possibly be a good idea or save anybody 5 cents? Like every other financial scam that ever existed, in "health insurance" and HMOs, a few elite insiders skim off the money and everybody else gets their money stolen. In the case of "medical care," buyers pay with their health and their lives. Only the complete eradication of the financial parasites can restore real health care and humanity.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

John, Concord, NH — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:28:42 GMT

I think that the poll must have took place in Boston, a city with no shortage of people who LOVE to live off of government resources. My "low" premium doubled after the first year of coverage, higher than it was before the state intruded on my health care.

This program most benefits those who contribute the least. The Robin Hood politics of MA is one of the main reasons I picked up my business and moved out of the state. We'll see how the plan does in a few years when other people like me who pull their own weight look for greener pastures. No one gets juice when there are no oranges left to squeeze.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Luke, Massachusetts — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:32:35 GMT

As a self employed musician, this program has really helped me be able to afford health insurance. A little over a year ago I had a medical emeregency and without this insurance I would've been stuck with thousands of dollars of medical bills, probably would've lost my house and had to take my son out of college. Thank God for the Commonwealth Connector!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Jason, Acworth Ga — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:33:06 GMT

Does anyone else find it funny that this "journalist" who is not from Mass. is trying so hard to sell this plan? It seems that the residents of Mass on this blog are not actually "overwhelmingly satisfied"...hmmmm?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

John, Ohio — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:34:03 GMT

Just a reality check here, but when I did a paper on this last fall the State of Massachusetts had already spent $400 million more than was budgeted for this experiment, after only 2 years.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Dave Williamson — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:37:27 GMT

Seems like many from MA that have blogged on here believe it is another rip-off. With the highest level of insurance type companies in the states located in MA, short of Bermuda ,its a wonder.

Another Barney Franks joke..

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Geoff Thomas — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:38:33 GMT

Sorry, this feel good piece misses the point. By involving insurance companies we add a horrendous cost element. Private insurance programs are the problem, not part of the partial answer. Single Payer health care as embodied in HR676 is the way to go- and that's why most other OECD countries have it. Medicare pays 3 percent of it's payment dollar to overhead, private insurers take up to 30 percent- that's why on a macro level 16 Percent of US GDP goes for healthcare versuse 10-12 percent in other OECD countries.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Beth Guivens, Brockton, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:38:57 GMT

As a resident of MA I say throw the Harvard poll in the trash. Harvard is in Cambridge, MA- a notoriously rich city where only people who make an incredible amount of money can afford to live and I wonder if these are the people that Harvard polled- people who have no problems paying for their healthcare period.
Massachusetts healthcare is NOT well and ok and it is NOT a system the entire US should follow. If we don't carry healthcare at all times we are essentially are fined when it comes time to pay taxes in April. So...wonderful...you already don't carry healthcare due to lack of money whether it be from being laid off like the rest of the country, or you are self employed and simply cannot afford it, or whatever the case may be...So what happens on top of being so broke you can't afford the insurance in the first place?-then you are FINED so you are even more broke...and the next year when it comes time to pay your taxes again and you STILL don't have health insurance you get an even BIGGER fine.It goes up more and more every year!!!
DONT follow our system. Don't listen to a Harvard poll. Read these comments- see what the REAL residents of MA have to say. I have not met a SINGLE person among my fellow citizens of the great "taxachusetts" who likes that we have this healthcare system.
Please don't let them follow our rule. I mean hello- look at the big dig!!!!!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

clem brierley, arvada, CO — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:41:32 GMT

Gee thats funny I just read to recent articles on line, one a paper done by a state analyst and another a NY Times piece stating that Mass. cannot afford the increase in healthcare costs due to the dramatic under estimating of applicants when Medicaid was expanded. Doesn't synch with the comments and the above article. Also stated quotes from doctors that have closed their practices to new patients and complaints from people who cannot find a doctor. Funny it is not adding up to the above article. But it does look very much like the UK health system I personnally observed from 1999 to 20000.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Janet Timm, Minnesota — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:42:53 GMT

I really would like affordable health care, not affordable health insurance. I pay around $5000 a year for a $10,000 deductible private health insurance pln for my husband and I, for the simple reason we don't want to lose our property to a hospital should something catastrophic happen. Our lives or a place to live them, hmmmmm. Couldn't one of the largest collectives in the world, aka. the U.S., help its citizens avoid that choice?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Bob — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:43:21 GMT

Funny how the Obama supporters on here IGNORE the Mass. Residents who are posting saying that the health care is a joke.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Luke T. , California — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:43:58 GMT

I believe that health care is not a God given right. And if you end up sick its because you did not take care of yourself when you were young. Its all about PREVENTION. Anyway, America is bankrupt so let really BANKRUPT AMERICA. I'm all for it. Its full of stupid people. The richest nation but it can take care of its own people. And the lawyers are the only one getting rich from all this.Lets all get health care for free and live off the state. I'm all for it. Lets breed a nation of dependents.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

cme Astoria OR. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:45:51 GMT

There is a hoorible truth, People get sick and some times die. There is a horrible truth, if we tried to save them all we will backrupt our Country. What is Social Darwinism? Other than a Term that as far as I know came out of my own head, I think it is 10% of the population being 'gay' and not reproduceing, the net affect being less people to burden the planet, it is bad health care, it is 600 children a minute dying of starvation, you can't "BAN ABORTION!!!" and "SAVE THE WHALES!!!"

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

george. adams, ma — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:47:58 GMT

I'm from Ma. and I am very thankful for the Ma. plan. Went thirty years without insurance because of a preexisting and now my wife and I are covered. Sure it's expensive in the beginning because all the uninsured coming on are getting care that's been put off. That will stop in the near future and the costs will come down. It might be helpful if we stopped looking at doctors like they were winning lottery tickets. Some of them have to work half the year to pay their mal-practice, c'mon, put your thinking caps on.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Anthony, MO — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:49:00 GMT

As a practicing physician, I honestly believe that the only way this nation will ever have universal healthcare is through either a tiered delivery system based upon the means of the user (ie. productivity index) or eliminating nonessential, expensive services such as spine surgeries for pain, joint replacements, and treatment of subjective conditions such as fibromyalgia, only to mention a few. This nation wants the best of everything (which is expensive) but does not want the cost associated with it. Our society will have to make many difficult decisions. Conditions associated with self-destructive behavior such as drug-use, obesity, smoking and gang violence are also pushing our system to the brink.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

john doe, seattle, wash — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:54:35 GMT

Sounds like Robert Bazell didn't do enough research on the facts of this story. All you had to do is ask the doctors and people of MA what was really happening. Seems as though the deadline to put up the article was more important than the accurate contents of it.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Chris, NJ — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:55:02 GMT

Nobody seems to be able to come to terms with the fact that socialism in anything, including medicine, will always fail. The entire price system is absent or distorted due to the fact that economic calculation is impossible. Medicare/Social Security have unfunded liabilities of over $40 trillion in the next 40-50 years on top of our $10+ trillion debt with federal deficits expected to soar over $1 trillion. This of course means it is completely impossible that even the existing quasi-socialist system we have can't be financed, let alone a full blown plan like this. Remember that for every dollar the State uses is another dollar stolen from somebody else where it could have been more productively used. Just keep hoping that hiring more useless bureaucrats and spending money we don't have and then monetizing the debt will eventually lead to the prosperity we once had when people were not treated like serfs.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Todd Romanick — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:55:17 GMT

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Kevin McLaughlin, Blakeslee, PA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:55:20 GMT

If costa have gone through the roof in Massachusetts why is this such a success ??? I don't any longer live there (too liberal for me and anyone else with morals) but everyone I talk that is still there thinks that the program is a dismal failure.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Chris — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:57:35 GMT

You need to get rid of the 11 plus million illegals in this Country. Plus you need to enact better medical liability reform. Plus their needs to be more children being able to have an easier path to Medical schools so we have more scientists, doctors and nurses. And also focus on preventive medicine.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Dawn, Grand Rapids, MI — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:05:14 GMT

France is considered to have to closest thing to a perfect health care system. Why can't America just copy France's model and worry about making improvements down the road if we need to. All we do in America is talk, talk, talk, but we never take action on important issues (i.e. energy, education etc.)

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Keith R — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:07:38 GMT

Hey, While were at it why don't we limit how much baby sitters can charge, auto mechanics, and why does it cost so much for a hair cut, we should nationalize barbers as well. And those damn farmers, we need to limit how much they charge for our food. Let's also look into reducing teacher pay. Why do they get 3 months off anyway. Let's all just sit in a circle and sing kum by yah. We can all get all our bills paid by the harder working achievers.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Paul — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:09:16 GMT

25% of my take-home pay goes to Anthem in Ohio, for my individual health insurance,which has increased substantially every year. I sure hope Daschle comes up with something better Soon. I've begged Anthem for a less expensive option, I'm willing to pay full doctor visit, full prescription, but that's not an option. (When they send letters, they never include their name or contact information because they don't want their customers to call them, either. If you do get hold of someone on the phone they won't give you their direct phone # because they don't want you to call back.). What kind of service is this? They're basically holding their customers hostage bcause they know they can. This is criminal.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Ron Carmichael, San Jose, California — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:13:25 GMT

The truth is that Michael Moore's movie, SICKO, provided the solution millions of Americans seek and that is universal health care for all via a single payer system -involving our government. When virtually all the Western civilized countries have this why not us? Our current system provides us with the highest infant mortality rates. Citizens of Canada and France are apparently relatively happy with their health care. In fact there's been no record of any of their citizens staging protests to get rid of their system - and citizens of France for example protest at the slightest provocation when their governement tries to do something they don't like! Our tax dollars pay for roads, police and fire protection. Why not health care? Instead we pay our insurance companies - when we can afford it and when we have no preexisting conditions - so they can make a hefty profit and create monopolies. Enough! Instead, I'd rather pay Uncle Sam that amount (or possibly less). Health care for all should be a RIGHT, not a privilege for the fortunate.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Lester Manley, Osage Beach, Missouri — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:16:00 GMT

Prior to being "downsized" and becoming unemployed with no insurance I worked almost 17 years for one company. During that time the insurance benefits kept being cut, costs to employees grew tremendously, and the company kept switching the insurance company in an effort to "keep cost down to enable us to supply you with insurance". From my standpoint in the middle if felt as if the only people that actually were doing better year after year were the owners of the company (no cost out of pocket for their insurance) and the insurance companies. From what I'm reading it appears from the responses that the typical hardworking people are again getting the
shaft. I'll willing to bet the lawmakers and the insurance company lackeys are getting healthcare just fine.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Tom — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:20:35 GMT

The solution for health insurance is very simple. The government solved the crisis in 1954 when they passed a law called section 105. Read my book www.totalbenefitsplanning.com The guy in tennessee should call me. I am not an insurance agent they are the problem. Commissions based on premium.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

mary anne epley,CRN — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:23:01 GMT

There are healthcare resources that are not being utilized because of the medical lobby. Resources that are highly trained to provide excellent care in prevention and health maintenance. These resources are Nurse Practioners and it would take bold and progressive legislation to set up clinics where Nurse Practioners could provide fundamental care in health preservation, prevention and education. The public need to demand the utilization of NP's. It would bring down healthcare costs and make healthcare MUCH more available to those who can least afford care. There are many ways a program could be set up and make it a win-win solution for everyone even the AMA who fear loss of control. I am and have been a RN for 36 years and I have worked and (have been a recipient of care from NP's) with Nurse Practioners finding them to much more in tune to the patients total needs and taking the time to individualize care to the individual. They actually take time to listen to the patient.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Jeff, Houston, TX — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:24:00 GMT

Now the leftists are going to praise Mass. Where were they when Romney was running for Pres?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Trey Coale, Lubbock, TX — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:24:32 GMT

one step closer to socialism. take a hard look, then run like hell. once we cross that threshold there is no turning back. for those with their head in the government feed trough, they will multiply like rabbits once big brother start handing out the free stuff. we already have a sustem in place for helping people who are poor. it's called medicaid

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Buch N, disgruntled Mass resident — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:24:48 GMT

This plan sucks in our state because if we do not buy insurance, we are heavily penalized via our income tax filing.

And I haven't seen rates drop since so many more people have to buy insurance.

Health care for all should not come at a penalty to those who don't want it.

I've seen our plan deductibles go up, cost went up & max benefits before out of pocket kicks in went down.

Yeah, wee'e doing just great.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Matt, Kaysville, Utah — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:26:22 GMT

My god, We have nothing but a bunch of Socialist, leftist latte drinkers here who think they have a right to someone elses money to pay for their own health insurance. Its sad to see what a bunch of thieves the leftists have become because the Nanny state government tells you its ok to accept stolen money from the government.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

mo — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:27:04 GMT

What happens if they do not pay the $900 fine?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Jane, Calvert County, MD. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:27:49 GMT

I say good for Massachusetts, and good for Mitt Romney! I think that it's admirable that someone cares enough to have stepped up to the plate. I know dozens of people who are without healthcare, including, now, our 19 year old son. It seems that not enough people realize just how serious a problem this is, or maybe, not enough care.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Russell Mctavish Bisbee Arizona — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:33:47 GMT

It seems to me by reading the comments everyone from other than Massachusetts seem to like this great idea.
The people from Mass seem to not like it so who do you listen to the ones who live there or people from other states. Sounds like some more government mismanagement rammed down peoples throats.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Ray McAlevy Birmingham Alabama — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:34:09 GMT

I am the owner of a small company. We have substantially reduced our premium by initiating a $2500 deductible per person, $7500 per family policy. However the company Self Insures the FIRST $1500 per person. Most employees never use the whole $1500 and no family has ever had more than two people use it. When the $2500/$7500 deductible is reached 100% coverage kicks in, thus every family is protected from a financial crises. From the savings we are building a fund to help any family who could have a problem such as an accident involving the whole family. This particular policy is with United but a similir one could be written by other. If the government took over the baloon portion after the high deductible was met, this policy could really be cheap. We also have self insured dental paying along Blue Cross guidelines. (zero deductible) It costs less than half the premium we were paying, and there is none of the hassle normally associated with an insurance company. The unfair part is that the dentists are not allowed by law to give my company the discount given to an insurance company.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Don Gibson, Lebanon, TN — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:34:25 GMT

Interesting. The citizens of Mass. who are covered by the plan or provice services are very critical of the plan. Shouldn't their views be the most respected as to the real situation?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

John Rodman — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:35:00 GMT

I moved out of Massachusetts and it is losing population rapidly. Guess why?

Run away taxes, suffocating political correctness, democrat corruption, John Kerry, and... universal healthcare.

If you read the comments, virtually every Ma resident has something bad to say about the health care mess. Mandatory, universal, government mandated ANYTHING will fail... especially healthcare.

As long as the majority of people continue to engage in risky behaviors ranging from over eating to drug and alcohol abuse and a refusal to exercise the cost of medical care will outstrip any mandatory system's ability to pay for it.

The promise of universal healthcare is a lie perpetuated by people too stupid to know better.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Maria Cheshire, CT — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:37:20 GMT

Don't get too giddy just yet! Time will be the true test.

There's not a large scale universal health care system in the world that strikes a healthy balance between high quality care and affordability. It's always a tradeoff of one for the other.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Ron B. Winlock, Wa. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:39:09 GMT

Everyone in this country should have health care, but with the cost of it, it is hard to do. I hope Obama does do something about health care, because george Bush did nothing about it. A matter of fact, george Bush did nothing but fund this stupid war he started. That's why this country is going down the toilet.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

David, Irvine, CA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:39:25 GMT

Mark, I earn over $150,000 per year and i would never think of paying over $1,100 a month for my family. I would purchase a high ded plan of at least $5000 and a premium of no more than $250 per month. Let's face it, if you're sick, a High ded plan will cover the big things, dont pay for premiums for the small things. Under my idea, you would save almost $7,000 that can be used for much better thinds, even out of pocket cost the plan doesnt cover.

Think, dont be a victim.

David

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Future Doc — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:42:31 GMT

Mass is a great start/example to build from...but we need to be also looking at what we are going to do to help primary care. Simply working on insurance won't cut it. And the public needs to change there perception of medical care in general.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Robbo the Yobbo, Lynn MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:43:57 GMT

I'm a real life example of the MA model. I work as a contractor (ie, I'm a permanent temp) in the financial field. I had been uninsured for some years before the MA plan drove me to obtain insurance in order to avoid the stiff penalties for being uninsured by choice. Fine, I get it; it's wise to compel full compliance with the program, so I groused about the method but I reconciled myself to the new expense.

I don't qualify for subsidized insurance, and my monthly premium the first year was $177. Last week, I discovered that the premium is going up to $233 - a 31% increase over last year. My thought is, what the hell? What happened to the great negotiating power of the Commonwealth? A 31% increase, a large chunk of which is simply profit for the HMO, is OUTRAGEOUS.

Until this country wakes up and realizes that the insurance companies are a big part of the problem, we are doomed to spiraling health care costs. Btw, I didn't make use of the insurance once in my first year. Not even a checkup. Maybe it's time I started getting sick, so I can reap some of the benefits of my "gold plated" Massachusetts health care. *chortle*

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Rob Boise, idaho — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:48:03 GMT

Isn't funny that large high per capita states run by socialists oops progressives are bankrupt. I guess that is just an accident

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Ron Blodgett — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:49:44 GMT

Ahhh... and in rolls the putrid stench of socialism. Breathe it in people. It won't be long now until we are paying 60% or more in federal income taxes and forced health care coverage. But that doesn't really matter to the unskilled and unemployed who won't shoulder the burden of this nations Democratic quasi-socialist agenda. It isn't pure socialism because the Democrats want to enrich the insurance companies rather than have the government take direct responsibility and lower the cost of providing the health care. It is still very close to socialism in that those people who live healthy lifestyles are now financially responsible for the healthcare of those who make very bad lifestyle choices. Any plans should not cover adults who acquire AIDS through unprotected sex, cancers caused by smoking, liver disease from alcohol, diabetes from obesity due to poor choice in diet, injuries sustained while conducting illegal activity and other choice related risky behavior.

The healthy are also responsible for the offspring of those individuals who have genetic abnormalities and choose to procreate and pass on their various gentetic illnesses and disabilities. I say let those parents be fully responsible for the costs of caring for the children who were likely to be born needing extensive long term health care. I'm not saying that all children with disabilities should not be covered just those children born to parents who know there is a great chance that their children will be born with the gnetically anomolous traits they pass to them.

We have so much freedom in this great country. Apparently we are also free of individual responsibility. What a shame.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Claude L. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:49:59 GMT

The delicate balance between privatisation and public health needs to be weighed with global and individual health and global and individual financial well being. Given this fact, there could be a state committee formed(with members from the federal/state/city/community levels which is hopefully not too biased(members from both parties,pricvate and public sectors) who are open to solve the problems, and who hopefully have a certain expertise) to take under consideration all factors which affect the above. What is health in one individual might be considered unhealthy in another one...what is considered minimum health in a certain community is not necessarily healthy in another...and so forth.
It would be helpful to really look into other models of health care like in Canada....and see how the plans work and see how they don't...and see how part or the whole plan can work in certain states or communities(even better) .....there must be a general concensus which defines minimum healthcare, minimum finacial freedom....and there must be a way of paying for this without increasing our ever increasing debts....and there must be ways to decrease the costs without jeopordizing too much overall economic growth but actually helping economic growth...where we see that the minimum health care and minimum finacial freedom can continue to grow in it's quality and quantity...so that overall there is economic and healthy growth for everyone...those who have more need to learn to share more with those who don't...and learn to appreciate more what they have..those who are professionals need to be compensated for good quality care and extra care for those who might not have the possibility to good care, by possibly more referrals, or/and a bonus from the government for qood and increasing care to those who don't have..etc..etc...
Privatisation of minimum health care is something that could increase corruption, and increase costs and decrease the minimum health care....
And after the plan is put in to place...to do constant monitoring of the plan, and at least a quarterly review to see if it is working for the community/city/state/federal levels.Keeping in mind
the goal: maximum quality and quantity of healthcare, and financial freedom for everyone...

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Paul — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:51:10 GMT

I'm not a doctor or an expert, but reading through the thread of responses, one would have to say that Bob Bazell needs to do some in-state resident and doctor interviews before writing "Part 2". What a flop most of Mass residents think this joke of a plan is. Nice try Bazell, but how about a little research before spouting off.... GO SOX!!!!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

K Stecher, retired MD, Colorado — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:52:59 GMT

First, please stop using the phrase "health care reform." It is insurance reform. The people involved in this reform know little or no medicine.
Massachusetts has skyrocketing costs, so much so that a new panel of 7 people has just been formed to address this problem. Of interest, only one is a physician. They will likely restrict/ration care.
None of the 10 connector people is a physician...just people in health insurance business, etc., with concern for low cost but not for good care, and no concurrent physician input.
As physician Alice Barton has noted, the reimbursement to physicians is lower than overhead cost. A gas station owner could not stay in business if he were forced by Massachusetts to sell gas for 75 cents a gallon. So less and less physicians will be available to treat patients...result: waiting lines, as in Canada.
Mitt Romney is to be congratulated for his effort in getting this experiment going, even though the results so far are not good, and not what the writer of this article implies.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

KP Mass and NH — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:57:26 GMT

First of all, the the medicaid system should work like an HMO. Co Pay $20 for office, $75-100 for ER visit, etc. etc., that may help limit the amount of money not coming in. Before they leave the ER they must go to an office to arrange payment of some sort. Also this will stop those who abuse the system. There is so many and I mean so many who abuse the healthcare system. Ambulance transport and ER visits for what can be taken care of in a sick call at a Primary Care office. Now many of you may say or think how is this possible. I have been working in the prehospital healthcare field for 15 years. Because I am not a nurse, or a physician, I cannot tell someone who is clearly abusing the system that there is no need for them to go to the hospital. I am not refusing care. It's not that I don't want to do my job, but if we decreased the amount of unnecessary tranport to ER, this would decrease the amount of wasted funds. If the prehospital profession was able to work more as home visit nurse or physician (yet under the guidance of physicians) (no I'm not saying just give me a medical degree), it would lessen unneeded hospital stays. By limiting this or decreasing this issue, it would save millions on taxpayer dollars.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

isn't it time — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:58:06 GMT

anyone who has been to a dr's office knows 15.00 is plenty, you wait a half hour , he is seeing 6 other patients at the same time, visit lasts 10 minutes. please there are no starving MD'S in mass. trust me. Whiners(people who would rather buy beer and toys) aside, it is working in MA

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Mark, Wayland and Amherst, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:01:54 GMT

I'm not exactly sure where you're getting that information, I go to UMASS and a director from the connector gave a lecture, and I've been following the program closely. reports are showing that its preventive treatment due to full coverage are starting to provide savings and profits to the state.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Steve H, Roanok,e Va. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:04:08 GMT

The problem is people expect the government to "provide" universal health care or even access, without any attempt to resolve the root causes for it soaring costs (my insurance went up 25% this year alone). Perhaps if we focused on only providing the "basics" for all, it would become more affordable. Of couse, defining a miminum level of universal service would be near impossible. Places that provide universal care also have waiting peroids at number months.

So for those who feel Mass has the answer, be careful what you ask for, as you might get it.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Brigette, Washington, DC — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:05:08 GMT

When will public debate center on the heart of the matter? NOT-FOR-PROFIT systems for provision of health care, and NOT-FOR-PROFIT incentives: That's what will make the greatest difference in realizing health care for all on a national scale. The point is not to argue for government action alone, but rather a system that includes many community-based health centers and prevention efforts. Witness the fact that a key element in the Massachusetts plan has been extending Medicaid coverage to people who would otherwise likely be uninsurable. Now shift a portion of those resources to the nation's nonprofits who know our communities best. What a powerful force for good that will be!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Edythe Cox, Hingham, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:05:19 GMT

Mandatory health insurance is a financial nightmare for people with multiple part-time jobs. We need Single Payer!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Don Wilding, Dennis, Mass. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:09:47 GMT

It's now the law that you have to buy health insurance in Mass. But people avoid buying health insurance because they don't want it. People don't buy it because they CAN'T AFFORD IT!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Robert B. Brigden, M.D. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:10:42 GMT

Physicians must be paid enough to encourage them to participate in such health plans. Also, if the state or federal government wants to control health care, then it must pay the full cost of medical training as many new physicians leave medical school with debt in excess of $125,000. From my experience, in WA, I has a retired physician new to the state could not get a physician who would accept Medicare until I went to the clinic located in the retirement community.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Charles Marsteller — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:14:02 GMT

Simple: allow everyone to buy into Medicare at cost, and couple this with cost savings (ie.bulk purchase by Feds of drugs) to keep premiums low.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Debbie H., Mtn. Home, AR — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:15:26 GMT

The "richest and greatest nation on earth" needs to get a grip and really look at the issue before rushing head long into something which could be ruined terribly if not done right. Insurance companies are the real culprit here - and the coverage from said companies is atrocious in most cases. Do insurance entities have a clue as what is really needed for coverage not only for families, but for singles, "empty nesters", and those who may just not choose to "buy" into a program? There need to be choices yes, but choices which make sense and do not run our nation and our families into bankruptcy. We have the best medical care in the world, but the compassion has which was part of the doctor-patient relationship has long since been replaced by assembly-line tactics. Without the humanity of healthcare, we really cannot have true solutions.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Ray J.C., KS — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:16:32 GMT

In addition, Massachusetts has among the highest college matriculation rates, highest per capita incomes, and lowest divorce rate in the union. It is clearly not a state that needs any lectures from desperate Republicans. It is no accident that the regions with the highest standards of living (New England and the Pacific Northwest) are run largely by progressive Democrats.
John S., Boston, MA (Sent Monday, January 12, 2009 9:02 PM

It is also just as evidenced that too many of the other areas that aren't as successful are also democrap run. Do you need a list of those too. The point is that one party is no better then the other when they spend more time arguing about whose plan is better then coming up with one that works.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

DK, Brighton, Mass — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:17:59 GMT

It is unfortunate to see how so many important details are avoided, especially in regards to this subject. I work full time, $10/hr. Do I save anything? NO. Rent is around $450 for both my girlfriend and I. I have to pay $100 each to two separate loans. Then again for another bill. around $33 for internet use. Do I have more than $300 in the bank? I wish. But among the bills, I need food. I'm poor. I make LESS than 15,000 a yr. hell, I make LESS than 10,000.
But hey... I live in Massachusetts... the LAW is to find an insurer, PAY a curtain amount I cannot afford. Or be PENALIZED... it would make more sense to Penalize the insurers for not helping US, the people.
But again, I am in a state with many taxes, doctors and dentists only interested in the money, a government with little help for its people. A strict state that has many problems unheard and overlooked in the media.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Naveed Sami — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:22:58 GMT

I think you are missing one important aspect. More physicians are leaving MA and less graduating residents are staying in MA because of this new healthcare system. It may succeed for the consumer but only if there are enough health care staff to help deliver. If you don't have physicians, so what healthcare system?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

joe bagadonuts — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:26:09 GMT

the only thing that happened is basically a name change in what the medical coverage is called.
evryone i know that was on Masshealth (our states ver of medicade/medicare) is now on a plan called neighborhood health, they call it an insur. plan but...it is just made up of the people that were on the massshealth, and mass health pays for it. sothey are in the same boat as b-4 . and though you can get some OK doctors a top grade one is out of the question because it is still mass health

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

jaime, agawam, ma — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:26:11 GMT

why do people complain about being forced to carry insurance on their person... but no one minds being forced to have it on their car...

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Mark Dixon — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:32:48 GMT

When I'm told I will have to pay a fine if I don't have health insurance it will be time to move to Europe.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

El Keter, Springfield, Massachusetts — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:34:40 GMT

Nobody in Massachusetts is happy with the situation with the exception of law-makers who got to pat themselves on the back and the insurance companies who still get to sell people insurance. Low income individuals still can't afford health insurance and now they face the risk of being fined if they don't go out and get some. It's not providing health care, just the appearance of doing so, and is legislating poor people out of the poorhouse and into the gutter. Meanwhile people are still un-or-under-insured and not getting care for problems that ail them.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Jody Bjerkeset, Panama City, FL — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:38:45 GMT

Leave it to NBC to paint a rosy picture of from what I've heard from several friends from MA, a horrible joke of a situation with their sociaist healthcare experiment. Beatiful state, but appears to be totally unlivable due to the ridiculous state of politics and taxes up there (hi barney frank). Ironic, the location of the tax revolt. I think the brave, revolutionary patriots from Boston would be so repulsed at what MA has become these days. You were the spark of the revolution for freedom. Look at you now. So sad.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Rich — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:44:24 GMT

15 dollars for an office visit. The doctor spends about 3 or 4 minutes with you. That's more than $225 dollars an hour. Not bad I would say.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Bill, Atlanta — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:47:12 GMT

I wonder where the doctors and nurses are going to come from to serve the 49,000,000 who don't currently have coverage. Oh wait, it will take 3 years to get a doctors appointment! Isn't this going to be great.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Woody in the woods, California — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:50:17 GMT

I live in Califronia. Can we send all the uninsured from here to Massachusetts for medical care? It would really help us out and since it's free it really won't hurt anyone there will it? Or maybe to Canada because they love thier hellcare up there to.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

slide6 — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:50:30 GMT

Looks like the only people complaining are American citizens who actually have to pay for health care, education, social services etc.

The illegals across the country are laughing all the way to the bank to send money back to mexico and other latin american countries.

What a f'n joke and our very own politicians are working to make it even easier on them thru amnesty. Time for a moratorium on LEGAL immigration until we get our OWN house in order. Americans are losing jobs and we're still allowing immigrants to enter the country. For what? Where are the jobs?

Wake up America! Both parties are selling us out! They're bailing out banks, wall street and the auto industry and NOTHING for those of us who are paying for it!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

N. Russell, Boston, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:51:26 GMT

We may have more people insured in MA but the cost of health care in this state has sky rocketed over the past 8 years -- our premiums have increased 8 - 10% per year with higher deductibles, etc. If health care costs are not brought under control it will mean the gov't goes broke trying to subsidize those with lower incomes and those of us who earn middle class incomes will pay more and of our income on healthcare. Recent article in Boston Globe showed annual MA health care costs are among the highest in the country at $6,000 - $7,500 for single person and $12,000 - $15,000 for family. Those costs are unsustainable.

The MA plan has done nothing to control rising health care costs and that is a big problem.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

J., MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:53:39 GMT

Health insurance began in the early 1900's to attract business for hospitals. Somehow this advertisement hook has evolved into a system that determines ultimately whether people get care for their health or not. I cannot say that people who do not want health insurance because they think they will stay healthy are foolish; that is the freedom of choice. However, health and well-being should not be a luxury of the people who can pay for it. Also, we must think of each other when thinking of health care. Sure you can work for it today, but Social Security and Medicare are travesties, and when we're old and retired, we'll have to depend on others to get health care when we really need it the most.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Matt — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:53:43 GMT

From the comments listed, it appears that Doctors are pretty upset about Universal Healthcare. I think they'll be fine. They'll still make a lot of money though slightly less than before and at the same time more people will get the medical care needed on a preventative basis instead of at emergency rooms. In fact the cost savings of this new approach combined with more processing technology may allow they to maintain their billing levels. Be open to fresh eyes and change that can be good for you and for the general public. This will be a win win situation.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

KB, Charlotte, NC — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 05:58:09 GMT

I live in North Carolina, and have heard the Massachusetts "experiment" has been a disaster. The thought of the government mandating universal health care terrifies me. We have excellent relationships with out family's doctors - I don't want the government telling me who we can see for our treatment. My husband has a chronic illness, and our family doctor and his specialist work together to provide his care.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Obed Elland Dennis,Ma — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 06:01:13 GMT

The ONLY way a health care system can work in this country is to have a National Health Care System. That is something that is being proven in Massachusetts as well as other states that are trying to care for their citizens healthwise. The cost at first will be extremely high, but a healthly society will also be a much more productive society over time.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Bill Liddle Clovis, California — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 06:03:35 GMT

Everyone is waiting for the Obama Machine to "Federalize" HealthCare. To make it an "Entitlement" and let the Taxpayers pick up the tab.. I sure hope not....The flood gates will be open forever...amd Socialism rules.....

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Qming, Guelph, Ontario — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 06:03:53 GMT

This is interesting. It's coverage by threat of force. I don't think I have much confidence in giving rent-seeking insurance companies a captive market. I like our (Canadian) system better for the most part. We spend a bit more than half the % of GDP that you do, for the same service with no deductables, no penalties for being unhealthy to begin with, and no paperwork or arguing claims with people paid to deny you service. The only downside is that if no one gets excluded, you sometimes have to wait for your turn. But a wait beats the risk of going bankrupt, or not being served at all. Even though I'm skeptical about MA's state enforced rent seeking scheme, I still wish them all luck. Maybe they'll discover new unforseen advantage to doing it that way rather than another way.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Carl, — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 06:05:48 GMT

Here's a better plan:

All medical personel, insurance companies and lawyers must take a 50% cut in pay or be fined by the state to help pay for the people who can't afford to pay their prices!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Dan White, Hudson, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 06:10:20 GMT

I'm a nurse who lives and works in MA. Some important facts to know about the State Insurance:

1) Many people in MA still don't have insurance. We see clients who are still "free-care" -- either by choice or ignorance of the mandate. And, of course, the state is not going to enforce the law on individuals who are unemployed, disabled, or lacking funds.

2) The state is NOT paying its bills to hospitals.

This law is better in theory than in practice at the present time, but I think it points us in the right direction.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 06:14:50 GMT

If they cant afford/want health insurance to begin with they will be fined ...great Bush lives on!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Spidur, Richmond, VA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 06:15:52 GMT

You have got to be kidding. This article is finished after seven paragraphs?! So that's all that is needed to barely analyze and approve the "resolution" that Massachusetts has cobbled together?! Oh, wait. I'm sorry, let's all hold hands, sing Kumbayah, and proclaim that all our troubles are over. As if.

Sorry, but as someone (among many here, I'm sure) who has relatives subject to Canadian "health care", I think I can safely say that if a nationalized health care plan doesn't work for thirty million people, there's no way in hell that it'll work for three HUNDRED million people.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Mike, Bellevue, WA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 06:19:45 GMT

The reason this has worked is because of the requirement for people to get covered, or pay a fine. The Massachusetts plan is not at all what people have in mind when they think of nationalized healthcare, where everyone has the same plan, provided by the government, with all decisions of copay's, what is and isn't covered, etc., made by the government.

It is that sort of "single payer" system that many have been after for a long time. And it would be a disaster for healthcare in the United States.

A while back, I tore a ligament in my knee. In less then a period of 3 weeks: I had the injury, went to my GP, when to a specialist, had an MRI on the knee, and was back to the specialist with the MRI results. All of that in less than 21 days. Try doing that in Canada.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Pissed Off Patient, FL — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 06:34:23 GMT

This sets a horrible precedent. If it's mandatory to pay for health insurance, which service is next? Mandatory phone service? Mandatory college? Between this and the Patriot Act, we're slowly letting the government remove our basic freedoms.

How will Mass fix our health insurance? By forcing us to buy the faulty product! Would you let the government force you to buy a car with a broken engine? Of course not.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Larry Krieger, Gilbert, Arizona — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 06:38:02 GMT

Only problem with your very slanted journalistic approach is not noting that Massachusetts program is bankrupt, closing facilities and health care practicioners are leaving the state for other places which severely limits the resources for service. Already there is rationing that is unsatisfactory to consumers, and facilities (hospitals and helth care alike) are closing at record rates. Multiply by the size of the federal beuracracy and the failure of the system is guaranteed.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

ceanf — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 06:46:26 GMT

Could this 'journalist', should we choose to call him that, be anymore biased? Socialized health care in MA is increasing taxes, putting the state in debt, reducing the availability of services and increasing the cost of those services. It happened when they socialized medicine in Europe and it will happen here. They unavoidable and direct consequences of the socialization of medicine, in any system, any where in the world. From the raw statistics to anecdotal evidence from MA posters, every piece of evidence supports the conclusion that MA's 'experiment' is a utter and total failure. What world are you living in Robbie?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Bill Conner — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 06:49:12 GMT

Reading the comments on this article, it seems that most of the people like this program. I have only one question, where are the low income residents of Ma. going to get the $900.00/year if they do not get the insurance. It sounds like the money will be coming from those who are working & can afford the program. The only thing that the program has that seems good,is the pre-existing condition is no longer a block for some people.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Frank Lake Charles, Louisiana — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 06:53:40 GMT

Ok I agree all is not perfect with the Massachussetts health care system but it is a start. What needs to happen when we make this program national is to require all doctors and hospitals to accept the plan. When did it start that becoming a doctor meant you were intilteled to a $200,000 to $300,000 or more a year income? Medicine use to be about helping people and about curing sickness not about becoming multimillionariares! It should become that again. The medical field is a service career and not quick ticket to easy street!

We do not need to lower benifits we need to lower the incomes of some of these doctors. INMHO

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

gary e boston ma — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 07:10:24 GMT

sure you think its easy.medicaid keeps cutting reimbursements to pharmacies, have such copays that if a recipiant cant afford them the pharmacy must absorb then, essentially subsidising medicaid. small businesses have manditory insurances and drug coverage to all employees at $927 for family and 388 for individuals, who fair is that? ma insurance isnt working

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Bob B — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 07:12:32 GMT

What is needed is a no-fault sort of medical malpractice insurance. A state fund that pays a fixed amount for medical mistakes. Also, a board review open to the public for each medical mistake so the public can avoid bad docs.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Melony — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 07:20:21 GMT

What happens when you cant pay Brad, Taunton, Ma do you go to jail? I really wanna know because if they go with universal health care there may be a lot of people in federal prisons for failure to pay?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Connie B — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 07:26:39 GMT

I know there is a desperate need for an insurance plan for people who can't afford it.
However, please everyone read the replys on these posts from the people who live in Massachusetts.
ITS NOT WORKING!!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Oregon, Pacific Coast North WEST — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 07:27:20 GMT

Yes finally, health care needs reform. I would welcome a more standardized system. Doctors for example get paid a lot for very little "hands on work". I agree for getting what you pay for out of a visit. Pay rate for that field is up to $240 an hour. (@25 copay, $20 lab fees, $125 for 15 min office time, $30 to $70 misc (medical supplies during visit). Too much money for too little hands on doctor care. I understand you need to read and know a lot but come on. Charge us fair reasonable prices.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Derek, TX — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 07:28:58 GMT

Healthcare should be available to everyone, but not required. Open standardized plans to everyone nationally. Do not force people to buy insurance. That is the key. The problem is that when you mandate insurance, companies can raise the price because they know you will have to buy it.

Why not set up a federally supported company (like Freddie or Fannie) that has standardized plans and is available to everyone. The goal of the company should be to maintain a certain level of assets, but otherwise be self contained. This way they are not out for profits, but also not a drain on the taxpayers.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Springfield, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 07:39:45 GMT

The MASS plan hurts those who need it most -earning under 20k per year.
If you pay for the plan the doctors don't accept it.
If you don't pay,the state fines you by taking your income tax returns before you ever see a dime, and you still are not covered. President Obama needs to know. Help!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

amy of IL — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 07:52:06 GMT

We have to lower cost for medical care and medicine in this country instead of just fattening the pockets of insurance companies. Our costs for healthcare compared to other countries is astounding and we can no longer justify the costs by saying it's the best care in the world, because it's not true. I'm insured. I paid $595 with insurance recently to get a crown put in a tooth. My dad, who was uninsured at the time spent $500 to get a crown without any insurance. Something is very wrong with our system of charges and the insurance system when the cost for the same basic procedure can range from $1500 (my total cost) to $500 (my dads total cost charged to uninsured patients). Veterans have been paying discounted medical costs negotiated by the government for years making a prescription average around $9-$12. But the Bush administration would not allow medicaid to negotiate their drug prices for seniors? Looks like Bush was looking out for the drug companies more than the seniors and poor in our country.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

amy of IL — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 07:56:43 GMT

$15 an office visit the way my physician practicies would still be profitable when I know I'm rushed in and rushed out with the physicians assistant and rarely see a doctor and left waiting for 2 hours with a scheduled doctors appt. because we're triple booked for cancellations and herded through like cattle. For this I'm usually charged $200-$350 per visit. It's rediculous. My husband had hives break out all over his body. This has happened before and he knew he would need a prescription for steroids to get rid of them. Of course you just can't go get steroids so he had to go to the doctor who listened to him for 2 minute (after waiting for 2 hours in a waiting room) and left with a bill for $358 and a prescription for the medicine he knew he needed and told the doctor he needed. What exactly did the doctor do to earn $358?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Keith, IA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 08:18:16 GMT

My understanding from friends and relatives living in Taxachusetts is that their socialized medicine is an abject failure based on costs alone. Indeed, the whole thing is only a few years old and already deep in blood-red numbers. Why do you print such absurd drivel? People's lives depend on information like this and the biased spin here could eventually end up killing people. How about some responsible journalism for a change. I know it's out of vogue, not trendy, and unfashionable, but who knows, you might actually start a new trend of unbiased media honesty.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

elisabeth schneider, France — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 08:22:53 GMT

I just cannot understand why America has not been able to figure out a good health plan for all. All western Europe has as well as canada. Maybe America should stop spending 600 billion/year of its citizens tax dollars and instead spend it on it people. Many problem would be solved.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

elisabeth schneider, France — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 08:25:00 GMT

What do you care about freedom when you are sick and unable to get care ? Being alive and well is most important.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Saul Thau — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 08:53:02 GMT

If government does it why would it be successful? What is governments track record of success? Ask any government official where the bailout money went they gave to the financial institutions and let me know their answer.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Heather Scott, Mason, OH — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 09:00:57 GMT

Gay marriage has something to do with Healthcare reform? I am assuming, since you made the comment about missing Bush and wishing for Sarah Palin that you're less interested in the truth, and WAY less interested in the first ammendment. Sarah Palin is a book burner. She wanted to burn the constitution and bill of rights and replace it with her version of Christianity.
Yes, something needs to be done about healthcare. I am a registered nurse, and I see patients all the time who are deathly ill come in because they couldn't afford their medications or preventative check ups and treatment. It's costing us WAY more than the fines and extra money the employers have to pay.
Medicaid and medicare need to be overhauled, to include more of the working poor in the coverage. I pay a high premium and deductables, have thousands of dollars of medical pills in collections.
Yet, if increasing what I pay more to allow others to have coverage to live, then I am willing to do that.Doctors are going to have to come back to reality, and look at why they became doctors. For every impoverished patient they treat who won't be able to contribute to their new car or million dollar house is STILL a person, and STILL deserves medical care in the same way as those who can afford to have insurance do.
Somewhere along the way, compassion has been lost for our brothers and sisters. This healthcare reform is only going to work if the people make it work. What if it were you who had no insurance, no way to pay for medical care that was desperately needed for yourself or a loved one? Insurance companies, hospital, doctors, they are all making a good profit. If people would stop with the frivolous law suits which drive up costs, this would help. Also the new technology is costing a lot of money. Families are keeping people alive via machines who have no chance for any meaningful existance. Who do you think is paying for their care? Thousands of Americans are so devestatingly ill, now residing in long term acute care or nursing homes and STILL the families have them listed as 'do everything and anything possible to keep them alive". Yet, no one is complaining about that.
We have come so far, that we are using technology on people with no quality of life. This isn't responsible healthcare. The United States has bred this mess, by allowing non medical people to make decisions to waste resources on very elderly and sick people who are afraid of the part of life called death.. no matter what that means for the rest of the people, or even their loved one.
Stop suing over stupid stuff, use healthcare money wisely, admit that death is a part of life, and that alone will save enough money to make an alternative possible. So what if you have to wait a little longer to have testing done, so what if people with no reaasonable expectation of improvement aren't going to get the treatment that should be reserved for those who can actually benefit from it? If everyone pointed the finger at themselves instead of someone else, then this crisis could be solved. The number one problem? Step on a scale. If you're more than slightly overweight, then you are the number one cause of the soaring healthcare costs in this country. Losing weight decreases the chance for some of the most expensive and lifelong healthcare costs in the country. Ignorance in this day and age isn't an acceptable excuse.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Heather Scott, Mason, OH — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 09:09:50 GMT

Doctor Barton, with all due respect, you say that you personally pay for the healthcare received by those patients with this state insurance. Yet I know that the billing that goes to traditional insurance is vastly inflated. So actually who is paying for it is the insured patients you have.
Would it really be such a bad thing to share your wealth and share your knowledge to help people without focusing on the price tag? Are these people less worthy of heathcare than those with private insurance?
Medicine is a public service. Docs used to take food, animals, etc. in trade for medical care. Look back on why you became a doctor. If it's about the money, then you've chosen the wrong profession. Mass. may not have it right...but at least they are making an attempt which is more than most states are even capable of.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

peter, should move to NH like every other person from MA. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 09:36:51 GMT

Whoever wrote this obviously doesn't live in MA.
Who did Harvard poll? Their own students??...lol

Go to MA and ask real residents what they think.

A lot of my Friends are in a bracket where they make "too much" money to get state health care but not enough to pay insurance. Another friend has a NH job that doesn't offer health insurance. He lives alone (in Ma) pays his own car,rent,utilities,taxes (lots of them) and food bills. Now the state gets to claim his tax returns?

Which brings up good point, if the government was to adopt the MA "system" Does that mean uninsured MA Citizens can now expect to lose both their state and federal tax returns? Wonderful...

Surprise, The "change, change, change" President is going to take pointers from the "change, change, change" Governor.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

ben doe, nashville, TN — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 09:46:23 GMT

It is similar to tenncare. The insurance companies tell the medical staff what they can and can't do. Nevermind the well being of the patient, what matters is the cost to the companies subbing the insurance. What good is having insurance if it forces you to get substandard care? Eventually the medical community will quit accepting the MA insurance and you will end up with what are essentially private health departments that will be forced to run their patients through like cattle to make enough profit to remain viable. The system is so mismanaged that you can't even do tests or have patients transferred without prior approval from the insurance companies. On more than one instance EMS has refused to transport without precertification and left with empty strectchers b/c the precert process is so slow and unproductive. When the precert process is unproductive then the hospitals and clinics follow decreasing the viability even more. It continues to build until the system is bankrupted. Eventually the cost to the state will become more than the dollar filled politician's pockets can hide.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Bill k, tampa, FL — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 09:57:57 GMT

The stupidest way I ever heard. The only way is merge, consolidate and use technology to cut cost. Merge: get rid of private medicaid companies funded by your tax dollars. Replace them by credit/debit card technology to automate insurance authorization and billing. This transition will pay for itself. Both Insurance companies, health care providers will benefit. Whether they lower their premium to insure more people is something to be addressed. add electronic medical records, you will cut health care cost between 30%-50%. Give affordable health care, people will buy. The health care cost is one of the contributing reasons to large unemployment, a contributing reason of the defecit. I hope we have a smart new adnimistration that find the reason why, and providde a solution accordingly. not just give handout to companies or lower their taxes.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Marilyn Reardon Yelm WA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 09:58:47 GMT

I have worked in health care for 15 years. At a seminar held by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, 90% of the healthcare executives raised their hands when Dr Don Berwick asked them if 40% of the cost of care at their facility was due to error, waste and overcomplexity of processes. Isn't that a good place to begin? The Obama administration should fund a center that teaches the tools of process improvements and rewards healthcare facilities that show success. This, and adding prevention and healh maintenence to the equation will move us forward to being a healthy society where health care is affordable. The MA plan seems to me to be just moving the furniture around the same room. We need a whole new house.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

John Melendez, Portland, OR — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 10:38:50 GMT

The experiment in Mass is not experiment at all. Socialized health care exists now and has been tried many times in the past. The end result of this Mass experiment is already known, just look ot England and the current state of their health care system.
All the problems noted by the previous comments are exactly what exists in England but even worse.
I still don't understand when health are became a "right" of all Americans? Yet I know for a FACT that our constitution promises freedom for everyone, how is the forced purchase of health insurance freedom???
I always viewed health care coverage as something that was earned through dedication and hard work. Life is not fair but ideologues believe they can make it so through the force of government...in the meantime, good luck making this experiment in Mass feasible.
Our last 2 experiments with government entitlement programs are now $60 trillion in debt, the biggest ponzi scheme ever concocted.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Jane Jensen — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 10:46:04 GMT

Stupid american health system and Mass. as an example, why is it? Force people to buy private insurance is the solution? Look Europe, look Canada with much better medical services than in US and no PRIVATE HOSPITALS AND NO PRIVATE INSURANCE.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Paul Roberts Carthage Illinois — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:03:48 GMT

we need medicaid for all of us who have been a citzenof this country for at lest five years, the companies in this country could then make a profit and be able to pay a desant wage so we can pay for the health care with our tax dollars. Giving us 500 or a 1000 dollars won,t do any good we need good paying jobs.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

charles, minnesota — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:04:39 GMT

What a mess we have in the US!!! Maybe we should just hire the French to run our medical system.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=92419273

"It's expensive to provide this kind of health care and social support. France's health care system is one of the most expensive in the world.

But it is not as expensive as the U.S. system, which is the world's most costly. The United States spends about twice as much as France on health care. In 2005, U.S. spending came to $6,400 per person. In France, it was $3,300.

To fund universal health care in France, workers are required to pay about 21 percent of their income into the national health care system. Employers pick up a little more than half of that. (French employers say these high taxes constrain their ability to hire more people.)

Americans don't pay as much in taxes. Nonetheless, they end up paying more for health care when one adds in the costs of buying insurance and the higher out-of-pocket expenses for medicine, doctors and hospitals."

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

John, Salem NH — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:09:43 GMT

Oh and where is the fact that after 1 year it is 150 MILLION in the hole? Helloo...anyone listening? This is a template to bankrupt the country even faster.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Ronald Zawacki Zawacki Manistee Mich. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:10:22 GMT

Ironic isn't it! We the tax payers can afford the best insurance for Our government officials but not for ourselves. All of them, National,State, County,and City. But we cannot do the same for ourselves.Mass, Mich. and probably a whole slew of otrher states, if not all!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Ronnie Perry Kaneohe, Hawaii — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:14:49 GMT

No one should be punished for not having insurance. As a nation, we should stop "punishing" people and start helping people. I support single-payer health care.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Bill, Bellaire, TX — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:16:20 GMT

Hey Mark of Salem, MA: your family premium in MA is less than my Medicare Part B Premium without a supplement that covers just me. I may want to trade it for a MA plan...let's hear more.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Daniel D'Auria MD — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:16:45 GMT

Dear Mr Obama
I hope you and your advisors are looking closely at the responses to this article. The media has a way of making everything seem wonderful. Politicians can make it seem as if you are getting a great deal. This kind of plan is a prescription for disaster!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Bill, Swansea MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:22:22 GMT

Just a couple of notes from a Mass business man.
1 I pay fees to Mass Heath although all of my employees are properly insured on this business' plan or on their spouses plan. Which we now have to certify EVERY Quarter (wastes time and money!).
2, Mass heath went over budget $200M+ the 1st year
3, Fees by health insurance companies make up the other largest part of covering the bill. (Of course these expenses are passed along to the business customers, and the premiums charged to individuals)

I'm not saying the plan does not have merit! Making everyone who works (18-35 year olds !!) pay to support the welfare and heroin addicts’ makes sense BUT remember by going it alone 1st Mass has made their business sector in a bind and much less competitive Vs out of state!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Anna — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:24:39 GMT

Oh! i think this article is talking about another Mass.
not so true!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Nick Centralia Washington — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:25:06 GMT

This health plan sounds horrible. I live in the State with the highest min. wage and the highest unemployment. My wife and i work our butts off and still cant afford this health care plan. Fine me for not being able to afford it, defeats the purpose doesnt it? Oh and we flood real bad and the Goverment cant help us there either.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Steven G., Dedham, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:28:04 GMT

As another unhappy resident of the Republic of Massachusetts, I have to agree with all of my fellow state citizens that this system will bankrupt the state, drive the cost of medical care to an unprecedented high, and drive medical professionals either out of state or to close up shop. Not even mentioning being fined for not supporting this boondoggle. I don't recall seeing anything about state or federal responsibility on this subject in either Constitution...

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Keith M. Hart, M.D., F.A.A.P. — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:48:18 GMT

It is not just the lower reimbursement on government sponsored health plans that needs to be addressed but more importantly the crisis looming regarding the lack of primary care providers. Move anywhere away from the populated cities and you will see the real crisis. Universal health care is a wonderful concept but you have to have the physicians to provide that care. Please expand on your coverage regarding the standardization of private health insurance. An interesting concept as well and much needed. Having set plans that insurance companies must bid on to provide coverage for an employer will put the power of pricing to the advantage of the purchaser and undoubtedly bring the price down. Getting rid of all the minute details that are hammered out with each big purchaser that will cover condition X but not Y etc will simplify the process. I can't imagine more then 3, tops 5 options that a company would be able to choose from would be needed.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Rebecca Scott — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 12:30:00 GMT

Mr. Bazell, you have a strange definition of success. The health care plan is already breaking the back of the Commonwealth, and it's still in its infancy. I feel as though I'm Alice and have gone through the looking glass when reading this article.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Ron N — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:25:15 GMT

The MA plan is a total scam, the insurance companies have been the primary beneficiaries. The scheme has done nothing to lower the cost of care, many of the newly insured can not find physicians willing to see them and the cost of premiums continues to climb steadily. The law mandates expensive HMO coverage with high co-pays and deductibles that essentially make the policies worthless. Tens of thousands of MA residents will be fined nearly $1,000 at tax time for refusing to buy low quality products that they can't afford. Frankly, the Bay State is illustrative of what not to do in trying to fix our ailing healthcare system.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

freemarketeer — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:54:24 GMT

Most intelligent people don't want nationalized healthcare--it's just a power grab of 14% of the GDP by the scaremonger Democrats to take complete power over your life!Solutions to this complex issue should be addressed by the private sector and the consumer ,not the media and gov't socialists!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Diane Archer — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 16:59:30 GMT

I am just finishing a report on the Massachusetts plan. And, based on all the data I have reviewed, it is clear that Massachusetts cannot be a model for national reform because it meets only one of three important reform goals. As Senator Daschle said at his confirmation hearing last week, “Any health care reform plan must achieve the three goals of increasing access and quality, while containing cost.” Massachusetts has increased access through increased coverage, but it has done nothing to improve quality or to contain costs. Premiums are increasing between 8 and 12 percent a year, and there are no systems in place to turn that around, so the system is destined to unravel. In addition, it doesn't make health care affordable for people with insurance, who are still at risk of medical debt or foregoing health care if they need costly services because deductibles and copays can be very high.

President-elect Obama and Senator Baucus propose an entirely different model for reform that includes a public insurance option--a new improved version of the public Medicare plan, that cuts out the private insurer middleman and that competes on a level playing field against private plans to rein in costs and drive quality. Their model uses a new design to create a streamlined, cost-effective, higher quality product. The private insurance industry, of course, is already doing everything in its power to kill it because it will undermine their profits--they would like nothing better than having Massachusetts become the model for national reform. But the President and Congress should represent the public interest.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Kristen, Wellesley, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 18:46:05 GMT

I can't imagine where this fabricated research came from for this article. As a lawyer in Massachusetts, I think one of the quickest solutions to solving a lot of the problems is to give all punitive damages awards to the state. If the legal purpose of punitive damages is to "punish the evildoer" then why does it automatically have to profit the plaintiff and the plaintiff's attorney? Give the punitive damages to the state (since it's by far the highest number awarded) and exempt it from the plaintiff's attorney's contingency fee. If you eliminate the windfall to the plaintiff and the plaintiff's attorney, there will be far fewer claims made by plaintiffs leading to lower malpractice claims and lower healthcare costs.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Steve, Boston, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 19:05:44 GMT

I'm an insurance broker in the Greater Boston area. Out of that 440K that have enrolled, the majority of those people are paying less than $70 per month for their insurance. This is far less than the market rate. A large percentage of the people have simply been moved from "free care" to "free health insurance." It's not hard to get them to sign up something that's free for them.

Small group rates have skyrocketed in the past 2 years. People that are being forced to buy insurance are more than willing to pay the fine.

Rosman has his head in the sand regarding the true nature of the market. Did he forget to mention that his organization received $127,000 this year to be a call center for Commonwealth Care(free or heavily subsidized health insurance). Did he also mention that major donors to his organization are the Mass. health insurance companies? He needs to toe the party line or he is out of work.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Ann, Cape Do, MA — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 20:15:08 GMT

Mandatory health insurance seems a decent enough idea on the surface but for those with limited incomes it is very, very expensive. It reminds me of the catch-22 of our welfare system. Lots of assistance for those under certain income levels. Get a better paying job and the benefits are taken away. Recipients are back to square one. Health insurance in MA runs the same way. Reach a decent living wage and the rates nearly double. Now the new wage doesn't seem very rewarding. The least expensive plans ask for 10% of income in addition to high deductibles ($2000/$4000 for individuals/families with out of pocket expenses capping out at $5000/$10000). Way to espensive.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Art Stiles, Stockbridge, GA — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 00:01:33 GMT

Once again, we have a liberal media attempting to "push" their own liberal agenda down the throats of Americans. The MA program, like all the other socialized health care programs of the world, is not as they portray it. The costs to the taxpayers is far beyond what was projected, and growing faster than anyone will admit. It is also threatening to put medical care providers out of business, or drive them out of the state.
Like Democrats, the liberals in the media refuse to see anything except their own hidden agendas. They and the Democrats could care less about what their agendas do to the people that contribute to the strength of this nation (ie: taxpayers) and continue to see ways to redistribute everyone's wealth except their own.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Ryan, SLC, Utah — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 16:01:50 GMT

Mass has the highest health insurance costs in the nation, Utah has the lowest. This is in large part due to the time honored value of competition that is the life blood to a free market society, and the prevailing pardigm here in Utah. Our problem in Utah is that our legislative energy is being wasted persuing the Mass model. Because our elected officials see Health Care as the political playing field. When what really should be done is emulate the Geisinger Health System in Pennsylvania or Intermountain Health Care System in Utah. It is the Health Care System (The Doctors and Hospitals) that control the cost. If we find a way to help doctors and hospitals become more competitive (publish their billed rates and simplify their billing codes) then we will have a system that finds the best practice medical procedure for the lowest price. Until then what do you expect when millions of people are going to the doctor, making purchase decision, whithout knowing the price, or quality. That my friends is what needs fixing.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Glenn Vernon — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 01:05:22 GMT

I can't watch NBC News with a straight face. It's little more than a propaganda outfit for liberal policies.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Susan — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 12:59:22 GMT

I read each post and Michael C Wesport's comments are the most helpful. Complaining will not change things, Michael at least saw the strengths as well as the weaknesses of the program and offered solutionsand ideas. Give Massachuetts a break for at least they are trying to move forward. Something I recognize is; there is not a simple solution for a complex problem. Often the American public looks through a very narrow lens. It is good to share what is happening, but if you served on the board who made decisions that had to consider ALL sides of every issue, what would you say then?

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Dan, Boston, MA — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 18:55:36 GMT

Please review the attached article if you want to really see how this Health Care Reform Law in MA is working. It's long but very informative. As a MA resident and private-pay consumer of health insurance, I completely agree with the findings. It's a disaster.
http://www.theobjectivestandard.com/issues/2008-fall/mandatory-health-insurance.asp

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

KJA, Kansas City, MO — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 21:35:49 GMT

As Don said, people avoid buying insurance because they can't afford it. But they also avoid buying it because they don't trust that it will provide actual health CARE to them (and definitely not without a stressful, agonizing fight) should they ever actually need it. Case in point: I just spoke to a friend who has a close friend, a very young woman, who was recently diagnosed with aggressive cancer. I asked how my friend's friend is doing, and my friend says she currently is battling her insurance company (she has an individual policy), which is trying to deny all of her claims. I am self-employed and purchased individual insurance when my husband lost his job. We have so little faith that this insurance will pay for anything, should we ever need it, that we have considered going without and banking the money. Yes, it eats into our budget to pay the premiums each month (and we have huge deductibles too) but I would gladly pay even more to have the peace of mind that the money I'm paying now will actually guarantee that I receive health CARE should I need it.
We need to take the PROFIT out of health care now. If our politicians are so backwards and short sighted that they refuse to do single payer, which is the simplest way to take out insurance company profit then fine. But forbid these companies to make a profit on basic health care, as they do in every other industrialized country on earth, and forbid CEOs from making multi-million dollar salaries to deny patient care.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Lisa Poplaski, Pittsfield, MA — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 04:17:20 GMT

Mr. Bazell, please get the facts, don't spread the propaganda.

It's been 2 months since this article and the comments that followed have been written, but I just discovered it and was surprised to read familiar words.

From the above reading, it's clear that Massachusetts' residents truly know whether the Mandated Health Insurance works. With few exceptions, only those who remain uninsured because health insurance remains unaffordable, understand first-hand the consequences of government gone awry.

Kudos to Thomas Cresswell, Lakewood of CA for posting my story.

A year later I can assure you that this flop they call success is bankrupting the state and our savings.

The majority of residents who don't complain and don't have a clue are insured through their jobs, or get it free or subsidized! It's the people like my husband and I who continue to remain uninsured and getting penalized that have earned the right to discuss its merits or lack thereof.

If some think I am too harsh, please move here and buy insurance as an individual and then we can talk.

At the time my story was written the best premium for us hovered around $800. Every month since it has increased. Today it's up to $1,200! I thought this law would lower the cost of insurance?
That's at least, one of the lies they sold the public.

Albeit, few months into its implementation, the state realized it had "underestimated" the number of people who would receive it for free or semi-free. The state was over his budget, millions of dollars short and trying to work out the "quirks" (as senator Downing told me and others during a meeting we had, to hash out the problems about this law.)

I spent the first 4 months of 2008 getting involved with other like-minded individuals by writing to our politicians, calling and finally giving up, because NO ONE was listening. No one cared.
During that time I also realized how many people in the state were oblivious to the real problems with the mandated insurance, because it didn't touch them personally.

For the sake of the country, whose majority appears oblivious to the danger of universal health care, I pray that Obama will not succeed in passing universal healthcare.
Massachusetts is a model of what not to do and what happens when government abuses its powers with the false promise to take care of our needs.

Lest I forget. When we filed our tax refund in 2008 we had to fork over $438 to the State as penalty for not having insurance in 2007.
This year, the peanalty will be $1000. The state of MA as promised hijacked the penalty for those who remain uninsured. It also guarantee that it will continue to rise with each year of non-compliance.

I wonder how much further will we allow the State or government to erode our freedoms before we rise up and rebel.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Lisa Poplaski, MA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:37:50 GMT

After catching up with 4 pages of comments I found 3 major points deserving clarification.

Point #1

~ To the nurse who wrote: "the state is not going to enforce the law on individuals who are unemployed, disabled, or lacking funds."

Absolutely untrue. Not sure about the disabled, but the State doesn't give a hoot about someone being unemployed or lacking funds.
We paid a penalty even though my husband had been out-of-work 10 of the 12 months.
Moreover, the penalty is treated as TAX EVASION, ergo, if you are unable to cough up the money on April 15th, interests and penalties will be assessed and the state maintains the right to garnish your wages.
With such strict rules (on the average joe) one has to wonder how Washington politicians get away with ten-thousands, hundred-thousands and millions in overdue taxes.

Point #2

~ It is nonsensical to compare mandated health insurance with compulsory car insurance. The two are not even in the same ballpark.

Car insurance applies directly to car owners. It is a reasonable way to minimize the costs to oneself and others in case of an accident. The risks of getting a vehicle on the road are easily understood, and people may choose not to own an auto.

Otoh, mandatory health insurance is comprehensive, primarily targeting those in specifics income brackets with exorbitant premiums.
It is obligatory without exception. Opting out occurs in only 3 instances.

1. Destitution;

2. Death;

3. Change of address(as in 'leave the state').

Furthemore, it dupes people into believing that this system holds everyone responsible for their own healthcare costs.
Truth is, that it overprotects/supports certain groups to the disadvantage of others.
Typically, the users and abusers fall largely in the category of those who pay little or nothing (illegals are the best example).

Point #3

Lastly, Single-Payer and Universal Health Care is a difference with no distinction. They both amount to government-run healthcare.
Extremely high taxes are necessary to create and sustain this type of entitlement. The more you earn the greater the cost to you...for the same services!

Who benefits? The people who get it free (again). The 'others' pay an arm and a leg for keep the program going.
Quality always suffers. I have lived in Europe. It's not the paradise that is purported to be.

During the presidential campaign both President Obama and his good friend Gov. Duval Patrick decried penalizing people for not been able to buy insurance. Not everyone bought the act.
Aside from that single announcement, the governor of Taxachusetts has shut his ears to the many complaints forwarded to his office concerning the issues with this law. Same goes for the legislators, congressmen, senators. Everyone passed the buck to the connector. The Black Hole of the Mandated Insurance Law.
Obama claimed his support for Universal Health Care, unlike Clinton doesn't include a "mandate."

That's deceptive talk. If Universal Health Care passes under Single-Payer, it will be mandatory. It will be couched under progressive taxation.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Lisa Poplaski, MA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 20:00:34 GMT

One more thing worthy of mention -

Who's profiting from this "reform"?

A number said the insurance companies, others the free-loaders and few pointed the finger at illegals.
All true, but the biggest mafioso yet it's none other than the State of Massachusetts.

How many are aware the state receives 5% kickback (maybe more, a year later) for every policy that is underwritten? Aside from coercing "fines."

That, my fellow Americans, is one more incentive to ensure the costs of insurance will never go down for the insured!

So, let's use the Massachusetts model as an example of where the country will be were obama able to pull the wool over the eyes of 49 other states....in the toilet, with the rest of us.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Elli Johanson — Tue, 12 May 2009 14:29:42 GMT

WTH! I did not read every post here, but what is going on!! My son works at a fast food restaurant and has had insurance for two years now. Low and behold, it is not acceptable according to the MaHealth Connector and he could be penalized at the end of the year because its not up to their *standards*. Now, from his employer he gets a letter listing Health Care providers that he *IS ALLOWED* to enroll in which have been deemed acceptable by the coordinator. I'm sure, at a higher rate, which he can bareley afford. Now, on another note, my daughter work works for Blue Cross Blue Sheild, received a similar notice stating that her *DENTAL* insurance was not acceptible!!!! What are we headed for!

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

Robert, Boston, MA — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:36:36 GMT

I'm an ER nurse and need to say that all of the health care reform is useless unless the nursing shortage that has suddenly disappeared is investigated. The nurse:patient ratio at a hospital has been studied and a low ration has been determined to be the number one factor in a successful patient outcome.

Do you vaguely remember articles that our country had a drastic nursing shortage? NBC reported that it is expected to grow to over 750,000 by the year 2014. Now read the comments on just about any nursing forum, talk to new grads who can't find jobs, experienced nurses who are competing with large numbers of unemployed nurses for positions.

Hospitals have cut back on nursing positions nationwide. When someone quits, many don't bother to fill the positions or have already cut nursing positions. This puts the additional burden on the remaining staff who need to stay employed. Potentially very dangerous conditions for both the patient and the nurse who caring for too many patients and working too many hours.

I would not want to be sick and hospitalized during this time. A 250,000+ nursing shortage doesn't disappear overnight. I hope NBC investigates this. The public needs to know what's going on. My comments have been echoed in my conversations with many hospital nursing directors and recruiters, several travel nursing recruiters, and my colleagues.

Until this is addressed, health care reform of any sort will just push people into Emergency Rooms and hospitals that are understaffed and overworked.

Health care: Simple needs, complex solutions

jean milofsky md — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 01:44:05 GMT

ON the July 14th broadcast Brian Williams discussed medical students foregoing careers in family practice for those in higher paid specialties. This is happening for many reasons but a primary one is the cost of a medical education. My daughter and her husband started out planning to do primary care in rural settings and almost $500,000 of debt between them later, they are planning careers in highly paid specialties.
I thought Mr Williams presentation of the issue was important but misleading. A primary care physician and a radiologist are not two interchangeable physicians who choose one career or another because of the salary. The skills required to be a radiologist are distinctive and not all physicians possess them-thinking three-dimensionally, seeing sharply, loving detail, and also not primarily wanting a lot of patient contact.
After listening to Mr Williams one might think two similarly skilled physicians would pick primary care or -say-radiology only because of salary concerns and not because values and skill sets are different, and one would not appreciate the extent to which educational debt has driven these choices.