The state of healthcare in the United States has been fiercely debated in recent years. President Obama passed legislation earlier in his term that would provide health coverage for every American. Needless to say, the conservatives were not happy about this move at all. Republican candidates have promised to repeal the law if elected to the White House in November 2012.
Democratic View
Democrats have long been trying to get healthcare for all Americans. Ted Kennedy was a champion of universal coverage for decades. Democrats believe that the cost of healthcare has become too expensive which has lead to so many people being without coverage. The cost of providing care to the uninsured is just a waste of money in their eyes. Some democrats also feel as if medical care is a basic human right as opposed to a service offered to those willing to pay.
Republican View
Republicans insist that medical coverage is a service that should only be offered to those who can pay. They have especially taken health care issue with how older people would be treated under the new law. Seniors would be afforded the right to end of life planning should they get sick. Most people have probably heard Sarah Palin refer to these group decisions as death panels.
Current Policy Status
The current healthcare legislation is expected to kick in sometime in 2014. Some of the provisions have already been enacted into law. Among these provisions are:
-Young Adults Up To Age 26 Are Covered
-Insurance Companies Can No Longer Deny Care Due To Pre-Existing Issues
All Americans will be required to have some form of health insurance by 2014. Those who cannot afford a policy will have the opportunity to purchase subsidized insurance through the government. Employers who have more than 50 full-time employees will also be required to offer insurance to employees.
Government Policy
It has typically been the policy of the government to leave insurance in the hands of private companies. Most private employers also offered health insurance to employees. Government workers have long been able to shop around for the best policies available. However, rising costs have caused many private employers to no longer provide coverage. Increasing outcry from the general public was a driving force behind the government proposing health care for all Americans.
Dealing with the healthcare crisis will be a good thing in the long run. Affordable health coverage will allow more Americans to live healthier lives. Healthier people will not need as much medical attention. This will create a cycle where health costs could potentially stabilize over the coming years.
(Pic Courtesy: http://www.universalhealthcareprosandcons.com)
