Americans want practical solutions to health care system problems

To the Editor:

President Obama and the Democratic Party suffered a huge repudiation at the polls. The Republicans control the Senate and the House and promise to dismantle “Obama Care” which only 37 percent of voters support. Given President Obama’s misrepresentations of “The Affordable Health Care Act” a 37 percent approval rating isn’t surprising. Obama’s misrepresentations included the following statements. “We should not mandate the purchase of health care.” “The health care bill will not increase the deficit by a dime.” “If you like your insurance plan you can keep it.” “You can keep your doctor.” “The health care bill will pay for itself.” The President’s statements did little to inspire confidence in his health care program or in his leadership. Americans experience a credibility gap.

However, as Republicans seek to dismantle Obama Care perhaps the Congress might remember the problems of health care prior to Obama Care’s passage. The problems included spiraling costs, coverage for young people ages 18 -25, and provisions for people with pre-existing conditions. Legislators might choose to keep popular provision like allowing children to stay on parent’s policies until their 26th birthday. Or clarify provisions for individuals with pre existing conditions. Totally dismantling Obama Care won’t nostalgically return the U.S. to a golden age of health care. Americans want practical solutions to problems not deceptive statements from their President or rhetoric from a gridlocked Washington.

Philip W. Chapman

Highland