It’s time to expand Medicaid
We’re on our own
Regarding “House rejects Medicaid proposal,” (A3, April 23): Once again the Texas House voted down Medicaid expansion. This is a case of a belief system, or ideology, overriding both the need for greater access to health care in our state and good common sense. Despite the fact that the federal government will pick up most of the tab for Medicaid services, and that hundreds of thousands of people will gain access to care thus far denied to them, there persists a line of thinking among many that we all must be on our own. It encompasses the idea that “since I manage to have health care without government help so can you.” This idea contains within it the notion that everyone has equal opportunity to have health care and so can get it “if they really want to.” This strain of thought is not only cruel but wrong.
Sadly, it appears as it will take a painfully long time to change this thinking, if ever.
Shaun Smith, Houston
They should be held responsible for the deaths and health problems that result from these sad actions! Our laws hold those responsible for their actions in our America!
R.K. Entrekin, Houston
Help and do no harm
Regarding “No vaccine, no job at Houston Methodist,” (A1, April 23): When the medical professional who refuses to take the vaccine for COVID-19 administers it to a patient, do they feel it is of no help or that they are harming the individual?
Cliff Bodin, Humble
Quite convincing
Regarding “We have a right to refuse unvaccinated drivers,” (A12, April 23): I must commend the very convincing article by Dr. Paul Klotman. The dean has brought out excellent historical events in the past that had similar resistance from stubborn people refusing to see the logic. Seat belts and smoking restrictions are today considered normal. We need to
educate such people.
I support Dr. Klotman’s suggestion that we refuse to patronize people who do not want to get vaccinated.
Showri Nandagiri, Sugar Land
What’s really important?
Regarding “Metro ready to spend millions on redesign plan,” (A3, April 22): Metro approved a $9.6 million contract with STV Inc. for redesign of the downtown freeway system, including I-69 in the Wheeler Transit Center area. Yet apparently no one can find $100 to pay someone to pick up the incredible amount of litter spread over the twoblock area surrounding the center. As is typical with any number of locations around Houston, no one in the administration seems to care about the appearance of the city we all care about. We spend millions trying to attract companies and visitors. But we give little consideration to one of the factors that’s really important to them. It’s mind blowing.
Ray Lawrence, Houston