Senator Calls For Public Health Insurance
May 16th, 09Democratic senator Sherrod Brown sees a real problem with American public health. Citing figures, Brown said forty-two million people between the ages of 18 and 64 without health insurance is a serious issue. Added to this number, the 25 million more who lack adequate coverage, and one could see why Senator Brown demands that this issue be addressed by Congress.
Brown is imploring Congress to approve funds for public health insurance as part of the 2010 budget. The senator believes that a public health plan option would be a tool to reduce health care costs, improve the quality of care, and ensure access in rural and other underserved regions.
“Comprehensive health reform is not only a moral issue it’s critical to getting our economy back on track,” Brown said. “We can’t achieve economic prosperity if families are only one hospital visit away from financial disaster or American businesses struggle to compete globally due to health care costs.”
Brown, of Ohio, referenced the fact that about 1.2 million fellow Ohio citizens that are currently without health insurance. He pointed out that the number of uninsured is growing in many parts of the state.
More statistics, culled from the Ohio Family Health Survey, noted that the numbers of uninsured adults was increasing. In Allen County Ohio, the percentage rose approximately 3.44% between 2004 and 2008.
Senator Brown believes that a public health plan option can be beneficial addition to the current insurance system; it is not meant to be a replacement system. This new option would be a way to stimulate health competition-and potentially reduce the current costs.
Brown said, “We must preserve access to employer-sponsored health care while increasing competition in the private market.”
He added, “Unfortunately, HMOs and private insurers always seem to be one step ahead of the sheriff. Including a public health plan option will keep costs down while ensuring coverage is comprehensive and accessible.”
