Reply #27: A matrix

[Donna Zen]

I believe a matrix is needed as we turn this huge ship around. Yes, expansion of the current system is a starting point, although it must be remembered the current system is what is broken. The actual insurance industry would still exist since they would be in some cases the policy producers, and in some or most cases they would still be needed to service the account. But the payer would be central for all of the insured. It now costs 10 times as much to process a private claim as it does to process a medicare claim. Why is that? Duplication of service of is one, and of course the high margin of profitability is another.

To bring the cost done there is much to be done including the institution of preventive health care for everyone, and the negotiation of drug costs. If the system should be put in place without first negating the factors that would cause the system to fail, then we will be pushed back further from the goal. What we must avoid is gimmicks that put the money into the pockets of those who don't give a damn.

Although Hillary's plan was the subject of the first part of my post, she is surely not alone. Not at all. What I don't understand is why the politicians are framing this issue as it should be. We really do need to revamp our system if we are to be competitive in the world. And we really do need to bring down costs. And we really do need a system that works for all of us. The majority of Americans can understand that if it is presented to them. Personally, and here I may be cynical but I've watched this debate too long not to be, I believe that the problem lies with the lobbyists and the money.