To the editor:
I worked in health care for over 15 years and there are some great things about our system including people in every hospital that are totally committed to high quality care. But there are inefficiencies that cost taxpayers in dollars and quality, and disparities in care determined by your ethnicity, gender or economic status.
U.S. health care costs the most but doesn't get the best outcomes. For every Mass General, there are many others that are underfunded and, despite their best efforts, are turning out mediocre care due to the high costs of treating the uninsured, inefficient systems and low staffing levels.
Opponents raise the issue of people who aren't insured going to jail. A health insurance requirement is no different than those states that require people to have car insurance. The reason for this is to save those who are insured from having to pay for coverage of those who are uninsured when they go to the emergency room and end up needing care they can't afford. I've heard opponents suggesting that health insurance needs to be changed, but we should let the market regulate itself. If the insurance companies have not made changes by now, why should we think they will in the future?
Every other developed nation provides health coverage for their people. Not only is it the right thing to do, it is a good investment in our future. Research shows us that healthy kids are better students, and healthy adults function at a higher level both mentally and physically. What can be achieved with health care reform is a healthier citizenry and stronger, more productive country. In a highly competitive global marketplace, that's something we all should be supporting.
Betsy Burtis
Derry, N.H.
