Many struggle with health care costs

“Insurance premiums for the Affordable Care Act plans are likely to jump 35 to 94 percent across the country within the next three years” said the opening line of the news brief “Tax bill linked to surge in Obamacare premiums” in Friday’s Dispatch. How long will Americans allow the health insurers, drug companies and hospital conglomerates to try our patience by skimming and scamming “We the People” who foot the bills, either through private insurance or public health care payment programs?

Everyone I talk to, even some senior citizens on Medicare, are worried that their next accident or illness will put them on the path toward bankruptcy. High deductibles and copays, on top of increasing premiums in the private sector — including for Medicare Advantage — is not in their budget. Unrest is growing in business circles because health care costs are crowding out funding of their essential missions. Corporate leaders feel the pain of their employees who must trade any potential wage or salary increase to pay growing insurance premiums.

At least half of Americans are now keenly aware of the problem and want to see our Congress act on their behalf. They want to have what other nations have — health care at half the cost, with no money owed at the point of delivery of care. For all the criticism from the American media about health care in these countries, their medical outcomes overall are better because everyone has access.

Congress should hold hearings on House Resolution 676 and Senate Bill 1804 and listen to its constituents for a change.

Bob Krasen Columbus