Well, the 2010 mid-term elections are over. And it's still clear to me that democracies are wonderful but they suck when it comes to reaching consensus on critical issues like health care reform. Once again, the Wall Street Journal, reiterates tired, trendy phrases for many of its readers. In today's editorial--"the ObamaCare Crossroads--we read: "In our world of infinite wants but finite resources, there are only two ways to allocate any good or service: either through prices and choices … [Read more...]
Health Care Reform Debate and Lack of Trust in Congress
As we approach a vote by Congress this weekend on health care reform, it's becoming clear that health care is not the issue at all. It's lack of trust in Congress. In today's Wall Street Journal, Gerald Seib reports that a new WSJ/NBC News poll reveals voters, if given the chance, would replace 50% of all members of Congress. People want to see consensus and an end to the bickering in Washington. They want action, not rhetoric, not grandstanding. I won't break down the demographics of which … [Read more...]
Health Care Reform Stifled by Drug Companies
The Washington Post reported two unrelated stories that, considered together, demonstrate a concerted effort by large drug companies and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to kill health care reform. The reports are disturbing and reveal two major challenges to controlling health care costs in the U.S. First--and most disturbing--the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, in concert with other unidentified business groups, are funding an "economic study" showing that health care reform would destroy jobs and … [Read more...]
High Health Care Costs Due to Lack of Competition
Unlike any other industry in the United States, the health care system is destroying our economy due to lack of competition. Despite all the arguments from health care experts, the "industry," a confluence of insurance companies, providers, pharmaceutical manufacturers, medical technology companies and lobbyists, is responsible for high health care costs. Breaking up the health care monopoly is a necessary step to halt price increases. Health insurance conglomerates, by far, are the biggest … [Read more...]