If you don't like reform, you haven't been sick

It’s possible to intelligently debate health-care reform without labeling opponents nasty names. Cite sources when saying I read/I saw.” Don’t quote the Internet unless address says .edu or credible non-partisan organization. Reading it online doesn’t make it true.

I had long-term illness, tried to buy health insurance, was turned down by three companies. Others would insure me at ridiculous premiums but not cover my illness. I found an insured job, after three years my boss cancelled it. “Your premium — too high.” I found another insured job. Three years later business closed. I had insurance until I was laid off; finally, the new company couldn’t turn me down for pre-existing illness. I pay for insurance with a $10,000 deductible. Last year paid $10,000 in medical bills and $6,000 insurance premiums.

My policy has $40 co-pay doctor visits. I went for a physical, received statement from doctor telling me, “Submitted bill to insurance.” I received letters from the hospital where sent for mammogram, lab for a test, and doctor who read mammograms. I got four more letters from insurance company saying they would cover $40/ balances “my responsibility.” I got four new letters from providers saying: “You owe.” Total: twelve letters. I owed several hundred dollars for my $40 co-pay doctor visit. How many people were involved sending letters — times hourly wage, cost of paper, cost of transporting mail etc. … ca-ching, ca-ching.

Obama’s radio program last week on health care bill dispelled lies and misinformation. Bill doesn’t guarantee illegal immigrants health coverage; elderly won’t be euthanized when ill. Anyone who says our health care system doesn’t need reform hasn’t been sick lately, run through the system or has incredibly good, employer paid, insurance and doesn’t know what 60 percent of us do: “Don’t get sick, figuring out how to pay for it might kill you.”

BETTY GARDNER

Priest River