Friday, May 05, 2006
As the wealthiest nation on the beautiful earth with the most advanced medical technology, and the United States ought to serve as a global model for health insurance delivery. But this is not the case, as an estimated 47 million Americans live in fear of serious illness because they don't carry health insurance that would help pay their medical bills. Experts said something needs to be done to rescue a growing number of these poor Americans from the perils of uninsured health care.
Ethel Shaw would soon join the ranks of America's uninsured. Shaw works for contractors, which provide custodial services at two U.S. government agencies.
At 61, Shaw says she is tired and wants to retire, but her medical problems, including diabetes, high blood pressure and glaucoma, won't permit it
America's health care system is one of the unique among industrialized democracies in that there is no universal, government-sponsored health insurance plan for all citizens.
American employers historically have offered health insurance as the job benefit to cover doctors' office visits and also medication for their employees.
Those who would like to reform the system disagree over the best solution to U.S. health care crisis.
The Bush Administration advocates private health savings accounts that would give Americans tax credits for money they set aside to pay their medical bills. Critics said such plans favor large insurance companies over low wage earners.
That's why many people support universal health care plans similar to those in other countries, Again, Karen Davenport, of the Center for American Progress.
"I'm worried about my health... I don't know how I'm going to make it if I give up the job. But if I stay on the job, I don't know how I'm going to make it because I'm half sick," said Shaw.
posted by kanth
@ 2:22 AM
permanent link | Post a Comment |
0 Comments:
Post a Comment
<< Home