There has been much in the news lately about this subject and I’m certain it is led by the upcoming non-binding ballot question. A recent guest opinion piece in the Gazette invited a response. I do hope that the November turnout is large and folks make their feelings known. My concern is that they do so from an educated point of view. I suggest that those on both sides of this issue take the time to Google “single-payer health care pros and cons” and understand all the ramifications. There are several sites that offer the same 15-16 salient points, half pro and half con, with very clear, detailed reasoning.
Once you’ve done this, you can go into the booth at least knowing what you are voting for or against.
Yes, on the surface, the concept sounds interesting. It is clear that it is a form of “socialized” medicine. This means that a given level of care will be established for all.
Anything extra will require private insurance. Of the seven “cons,” the three I really don’t like are the need for increased taxes coming from somewhere, long wait times for procedures and an increased government presence in my health care. My preference would be a plan that offers as an option, to private insurance, Medicare just like seniors get.
What I do hope is that everyone voting will take the time to truly understand what their vote means beyond simply emotion.
Eric Stahlberg III
Florence