For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Len — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:40:35 GMT

The only way health care reform will work is to put all of the for-profit health insurance companies out of business and just have the federal government have a medicare style plan for every American with a special subsidary for Veterans. In other words, it's a dead horse. Corporations, Small Biz and entrepeneurs won't go for it. They'll all scream, "Government intrusion" and that will be the end of health care reform. Why bother? Just accept that it isn't going to happen.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Réal, Syracuse NY — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:47:52 GMT

My friend and I are in the process of starting our own business. I'll have no healthcare when I get out of the Navy in six months, so we'll see what happens there. I hope this business works out for us, because if it does, I'm moving to Europe so I can live a real life. I hope American politicians do fix the healthcare problem in the coming years, but for me its a day late and a dollar short.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Allen Hochhalter — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:54:39 GMT

As an American I find it unimaginable that we do not have some kind of National Health Care System! We need a plan that must provede those in need with relief "when it is needed". We need Major Medical Expense coverage with a structured deductable plan, maybe similar to our Medicare System Plan, to protect people from the devastating financial and emotional loss they suffer when they get sick or injured. Maybe we cold have a plan where the deductable could be covered by private insurers just as the deductable is for people on medicare. We do need Action from our representatives. Please keep it in mind come election day.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

jeff — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:17:46 GMT

Everyone in this country should take a really long look at the health care industry in this country. The system truly is sick itself. If you don't believe it , just wait till the next time you need to have a procedure done or some emergency taken care of. You will freak at the cost and how difficult and problematic and confusing it is. A true nightmare. Please wake up America!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

A. Reid — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 06:06:31 GMT

Hi! just a short comment on the health care issue.
Sorry I don't own a business yet, but I work for a hospice company. My insurance rates just went up this month. For one child and one adult $374.00 bi weekly for medical insurance. This is insane!!!!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

elisabeth schneider — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 06:22:57 GMT

I owned a small flowershop and worked 48 hours a week. I was never able to afford health insurance. It is an outrage... When is this country going to copy the french health care system... It is the best in the world and it works. It is affordable and accessible to everyone! I know, I was borned and raised in France. There is no waiting lines, you can choose you doctors. The care is great, and medications very inexpensive. It baffles me how anyone in the usa can be against Universal health care. It would profit everyone and the americans would be certainly healthier. Also, France offer affordable health insurance to its citizens living overseas. The health care system in this country is a real rip off and it needs to be changed. If those politicians do not know how, send them to take a class at the french ministry of health!! Also, no
one seem bothered by how much money is being spent on the military... 610 billions in 2006!! This money could have taken care of a lots of people for many years to come... Also, preventive care is Key to a successful health care system... preventive care should be accessable to everyone. In France a doctor visit is only $30.00
This country is backward!! Health care system in France is N0 1, american health care system is N0 37th... What a shame! And you think this country is the greatest in the world?? Right!!! No country is the greatest when it cannot provide something as important as health care! To us europeans, it is a right and a moral obligation! And for the one who think France is bankrupted, France has never been so rich!!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Sandy Collier — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 07:23:07 GMT

As a Teamster about to quit my job and open a business, so I can be a better mommy than truck driver, I am concerned about this very thing. I am middle-aged(Eeek! ) and hope to address my overweight condition before taking the plunge so I CAN get some kind of coverage for,say, drastic hospitalization and pay for routine doctor's visits out of pocket. If I keep my salary down I can deduct 100% of those expenses as well as whatever premiums I have to pay-I hope.

My job makes it extemely difficult to be healthy and I am accustomed to the comprehensive health care we enjoy as union members. I will get a double-whammy of reality when I make my move. Wish me luck! The alternative is to consign my young son to the indifferent care of a rapid turnover of caregivers and underskilled big-city teachers for the next 12 years or so while I continue to work 60-70 hours per week, on nights,weekends,and holidays for The Man. THAT dog ain't gonna hunt.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Amy, Macon, Georgia — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 11:09:40 GMT

Small business owners often overlook the resources at their disposal. Local Chambers of Commerse and Small Business Groups will offer low cost group insurance to members. If they are irresponsible enough not to get healthcare for themselves at least, they deserve whatever they get!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Rob C. — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 11:12:52 GMT

I researched opening a small-business with only 4 employees.
I got through all the tax-laws and my head was reeling...then I looked at getting medical insurance in a group plan for 4-people.
The quoted rate was 3X my projected first-year income after expenses.
I stopped looking into opening the business at that point.
I now understand why comapnies use the tatic of employing a bunch of part-time employees compared to a smaller amount of full-time employees.
This may decrease the insurance payments for the company but limits the businesses chances of employing hi-grade/long-term employees.
I for one will NOT even apply to a company unless they have medical insurance available after 90 days employment even if I have to pay a higher preimum as a lower time employee.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Gary Rowe, Albany, NY — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:02:10 GMT

I have worked in the health care industry for the past 40 years, the last 20 as a practice administrator. The whole health care industry as gotten completely out of hand. Insurance companies ask for and receive double digit increases each year while lowering reimbursement to physicians. DME companies and pharmaceutical companies are constantly involved in direct marketing campaigns that encourage more and more consumption. Americans don't need more care, they need to take better care of themselves. We are in desperate need of a single payor system that provides health care for all Americans and eliminates the "for profit" entities. Tell your elected representatives to stop taking money from the big corporations and do what is right. If they don't....fire them.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Eve Tahmincioglu — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:02:35 GMT

Hello Len,
Do you think the nation will ever get to such a critical point that drastic reform would be acceptable?

Eve

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Caroline Woodman, Thomaston ME — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:09:22 GMT

Healthcare in this country is scary. Most of those policies for small business including the group policies have very high deductables and don't pay for much anyway. My husband recently started a new job where the family plan is $870.00 monthly meanwhile here in Maine the President of Blue Cross got a 45 million dollar bonus in 2006. How many people could have had their healthcare needs met just by his bonus?
Amercians need to wake up and demand quality healthcare for all. The only way to do this is with government healthcare. We have to let our senators and congressmen know how we feel. NOthing will happen if we don't, remember this is the president who wants more money for his war and wants congress not to spend so much on kids healthcare. Sicko should be required veiwing for all adults in this country.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

A. B-G. Boston, Massachusetts — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:03:24 GMT

I was an exchange student to Sweden many years ago. After comparing maternity leave, medical care, among other items with what the Swedes have--my husband and I are considering moving there and possibly settling there. We also figured out I have less tax liability there making only $36,000 a year. I wouldn't be taxed at my husband's higher rate, which is about the same in Sweden. I say "screw it." The powers that be will not reform the system here because its their "turn to ride on the high hog." I'm sure I'll be slandered as un-patriotic for leaving, but my parents and grandparents understand. I'm doing what anyone would do for their kids--trying to give them the best life I can. Its exactly what my husband's grandparents did 40+ years ago in leaving communist Poland.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Tom Davis — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:20:29 GMT

Overall, there is a simple fix, but we may have to endure our own civil war. Us versus Them. If we won, that sure would make us common folk happier in all manner of daily life with more of the best of American freedom.
I hope I can do this: please read Jane Bryant Quinns last Newsweek essay. P.S. In my dreams I see a populist pres., and an overpowering majority of young democratic congressmen and women. Remember the Bastille.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Ivy Hamlin, NY, NY — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:24:14 GMT

I used to own a small busimess with about 6 employees. I was able to cover them for a while, then rates got beyond what I could pay. I kept looking around, tho'. Amazing the scams I was offered. On one policy, the saleman flat-out lied to me about the terms. When the paperwork arrived I waded through it and discovered that there was a $25K deductible. Can you imgine? A twenty-five thousand dollar deductible! And it wasn't that cheap! I had to call and scream and threaten and finally got my money back.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Renee in the Midwest — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:26:37 GMT

I work on the administrative side of a small business (30 employees) and every few years or so each employee completes a form stating their health issues so the company maybe able to get a lower premium. What sucks about this is the insurance company can then charge what they want when they see any underlying condition and heaven forbid we have anyone with cancer then ZOOM up goes the premium! I think the company pays like $890/month for the family plan.
A few months back I was going to have an elective proceedure done and I tried in vain to find out a ballpark on how much it was going to cost and do you think I could get a straight answer? Healthcare is about the only industry I can think of that you can't easily get a price quote on how much something is going to cost. I wanted to know so I could start saving ahead a little bit. My goal was to shop around to find the best deal so ultimately my insurance company wouldn't be over charged by some over zealous Dr. Granted, health insurance wasn't intended to cover every sniffle and sneeze and I think some Americans have that idea. Even those on government assistance should have to pay some sort of co-pay and for goodness sake find a family doctor and quit going to the emergency room for your rashes. And another reason healthcare is so costly is because us hard working Americans are paying for those that are here illegally and are sponging off the rest of us. Please excuse my rambling and misspelled words because this has stuck a nerve.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Brian — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:31:16 GMT

For those who think that universal or government healthcare is the answer, all you need to do is look at the state of Wisconsin. Recently, the governor and Senate passed a bill to insure all people under the age of 65. This plan would cost 15.2 billion dollars, which is about $3 billion more than the state takes in yearly in taxes. This wonderful plan would increase the tax bill paid by residents by $510 dollars a month. Small businesses who do not offer insurance would see their employees costs sky rocket.

So, for those who think the answer is government control, I have one question. Who will pay for it? In case you can't figure it out, you will, with higher taxes. Personally, I like having the choice, even if I have to pay a higher premium.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Mario Sousa, Hartford, CT — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:38:13 GMT

First of all, I know there has been a lot of talk about why America doesn't have national healthcare. The obvious reason: HMOs and insurance companies pump too much money into the governments pockets for this to ever happened. I believe you call it "contributions" But we all know they are "legal bribes". DON'T BELIEVE THE PEOPLE WHO SAY NATIONAL HEALTHCARE IS BAD!! I am from Europe and live here in the US and I have heard spokesmen speakign about how long it takes to see a doctor, get a surgeon, get your pills etc etc. Does it happen? Sure, but not the way these people describe it. They are all liars, not doubt in my mind paid by the health care companies to speak badly about national healthcare. How long do you wait for a doctor now? How many times have you been denied coverage? Or told what pills to take? What doctor to see? This is your life they are talking about!! What does some snot nosed kid taking a call in who knows where know about your medical condition to deny you anything!!?!?!? What are your premiums for? If I pay you to provide for me in times that I need help, then I do not expect to fight over bills. Why have coverage in the first place? When I was in Europe (Portugal) a few years back, my appendix burst and was rushed to a hospital. I had emergency surgery and stayed in the hospital for 9 days. NINE!! Here you'de be home the next day. On the 7th day, I had a temperature of 99.1. They wouldn't let me leave the hospital. Finally, when I left, I paid my bill: $6.35. (Phone call). Wake up America!!!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Mike, Media, PA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:38:13 GMT

Amy from Macon has the right idea. Instead of complaining about the lack of access to health care coverage, small business owners need only join their local Chamber of Commerce to get access to a real laundry list of health care plans. That is if the REALLY want the coverage or just want an excuse not to provide health care for their employees.
Plus, there are all the other benefits associated with belonging to a Chamber including the networking functions and education. And, no, although I belong to a good Chamber, I don't work for one.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Dave E, Milwaukee, WI — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:42:17 GMT

One thing to remember; the health care system in this country is NOT a free market / "capitalist" system. It is a very sick mixture of legally sanctioned monopolies (AMA, hospital associations, drug companies etc.), publicly funded programs (Medicare, Medicaid) and for-profit payers (insurance companies). There are huge amounts of money pouring into the system and most providers have a vested interest in the status quo (inertia). More and more small business and middle class people are falling through the cracks and face financial devastation. Just don't blame "capitalism." Entrepreneurs were squeezed out of the system a long time ago and now operate on the fringes.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Ray, Houston, TX — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:47:06 GMT

People want nice things? People want more government funding for parks, healthcare, roads and other things? It's simple. Raise taxes. If you want nice things, you have to pay for them. Where else would we get revenue for a major crisis like this? Remove funding from NASA? Cut back Parks and Recreation funding? Not enough money there. Raise taxes, get more government income and then see what more money means more nice things. Of course there is always that problem of politicians hoarding it.....

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

JRS, Chicago, IL — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:10:09 GMT

I find it ironic that your "solution" to small business problems is a further abrogation of property rights and ending for-profit enterprises in health care.

As a business owner, I have suffered the increased health care costs associated with insuring my employees. I have also suffered the increased costs associated with giving my employees wage increases. Perhaps you could really help me out by putting all my workers on the government payroll! Better yet, how about forcing my customers to buy my products in quantities more than their needs!

Wake up America. The state and the consumer are more at fault for breaking America's health care system than greedy HMOs are. If you want to fix these problems, deal with them as the economic issues they are, not the emotional issues you want them to be.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Ted — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:13:46 GMT

I am no fan of Michael Moore or his partisan rants, but your comment "(t)hey took the plunge, started a firm, but now realize the escalating cost of health care coverage may send them back to working for The Man;" sums up problems that I encountered after twelve years of owning and operating an incorporated small business. Health care insurance costs were the defining reason why my wife and I are now back working for "The Man" in another state. Small business might be the engine that drives the economy, but health care insurance costs are driving small businesses out of business.

Like everything else in the country that directly impacts average people these days, the system is broke and appears to be driven by nothing more than the insatiable greed of large corporations. Whether it's health care coverage; prescription drugs; gasoline and energy costs; out-sourcing of jobs and / or related illegal immigration; and a myriad of other problems --- we are in deep yogurt and there is no relief on the horizon. Politicans in both parties are enablers of this mess and chamber maids to special interests, which have been enjoying one big party at our expense for years.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Bob Krasen, Columbus, Ohio — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:19:00 GMT

I encourage everyone to focus on their state legislatures to address the need for guaranteed healthcare for all. The feds may never deliver. E.g. California's legislature passed a universal health care bill last session that was vetoed by the Terminator Schwarzenegger. Many states have similar bills already introduced, e.g. Ohio, The Health Care for All Ohioans Act, H.B. 186 & S.B. 168. You can get info about similar bills in all states that have them at www.spanohio.org Do not be afraid of contacting your legislators.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Robert, Ashland, Ohio — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:26:08 GMT

Universal Health Care seems to work in the countries I have visited. I would just be afraid the same people who screwed up the Katrina disaster relief effort so badly would be the people our Government would put in charge.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Bonnie Huval — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:30:42 GMT

Due to pre-existing conditions, I have been declared by the health insurers as "uninsurable in the United States" (their words). That means they will not sell coverage to me at any price... in the USA.

In 2000-2001 my consulting firm paid most of the premium to cover an employee other than me, but by 2003 I could not do that any more either. I left the country and took my 15 year old consulting practice with me.

I know people all over the world. Switzerland's health care sounds slightly better than France's. My chronically ill friend in Switzerland could easily be dead if she were in any other country. Instead she is not only alive, but working.

At present I am in the UK. I came here for personal reasons, not their NHS. I do not recommend emulating their NHS health care system, which even they admit costs more than other countries in the EU without matching quality of care. Now that I am outside the USA, I have been able to buy private insurance and can get care in the private network, which is better.

If I return to the USA to live, I will again be unable to keep or obtain health insurance. Tax laws make it punitive to spend more than 30 days a year visiting in the USA. When I left, I supposed there will be no going back.

If rising anti-immigration emotions keep me from being able to renew my visa, I have chosen the next country I will go to. What I do improves the profitability of factories and telecom companies, which I hope will make me welcome.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Alexis, Washington DC — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:04:28 GMT

Those of us with insurance are used to paying for it. If our taxes increased by 3% across the board, we could fund national health insurance, and 3% is far less than most of us pay now!!!!! Hmmm... less money, better coverage, coverage for everyone... is this really a debate? In a free market economy, we all want more for less - and Universal Coverage does this! HR 676 - tell your reps to support it!!!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Neil, Nashville Tn. — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:44:01 GMT

The goverment should atleast be able to have a basic plan for everyone like Medicare. After that you could buy supplemental plans if you need it. We don't have a health care problem in this country. We have a delivery problem. When the only reason people work is to have health insurance, then how are we ever going to encorage people to start new businesses.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Jim Watson, Carlsbad, CA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:52:09 GMT

Interesting article. Even if you have health insurance with a major carrier you may not be completely covered. I have a friend in the business and she said people (me) don't read the fine print and will get caught out with a major illness. She saved my wife and I (both self employed) a lot of money by raising our deductible, and taking out an additional policy from an independent carrier to cover us in the event of a catastrophic medical event. . .

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Will Konyndyk — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:53:58 GMT

As long small business believes government is the enemy and votes Republican not progress will be made on health care. As long as people believe Canadians and Brits have substandard care and believe the rest of false corporate claims things won't change. And no the states can't fix this mess. A national health plan similar to Medicare is the only answer. You have control costs by limting profits for both the drug companies and medical industry. As long as you let rich folks spend whatever they can we might get something passed in the next for years.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Janet, Scappoose, Oregon — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 16:03:56 GMT

Almost every day, people come into my small business and tell me how I should change this or that. Sometimes, people have great ideas, but 98% of the time, what they say just shows how little they understand the business I am in. The same is true for those who imply that I and other small business owners are stupid and deserve to die if we can't afford health insurance. Health insurance is very expensive and many small businesses can't afford it. Heck, businesses of all sizes are having a hard time of it. More importantly, many people have pre-existing conditions and are turned down. I am NOT too stupid to check with the Chamber of Commerce. Ours doesn't offer anything. We are not idiots, Amy & Mike. I have an MBA and experience in this area. I promise you that the only reasonably priced plans have very high deductibles and poor coverage.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Amanda, Calgary, Canada — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 16:37:39 GMT

I live in Canada and pay $44.00 per month for my health care coverage for the essentials (doctors visits, tests etc) plus about $5.00 for the rest (drugs and such). People always say that the American system is better than ours because of the wait times, but I recently had a scare where I could not move my leg because of a lump in it. I waited 45 minutes to see a doctor, and less than half an hour for an ultrasound. This was all at no cost to me or my company health plan, and my company offered health care plan covered the drugs that I needed to deal with the pain. I can not think of a better system than the one that we have here.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Jeff Dill Old Bridge N.J. — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 16:54:23 GMT

Part of the problem with health care in this country is the high cost of prescription drugs. The drug companies say that they need to charge higher costs so they can recoup the cost of r&d for finding new drugs to treat diseases, this really puzzles me because the government pays drug companies to find drugs for diseases (r&d). Then they use us for guiney pigs to test their crap on and find what the affects are, then hide the results give the medication to other countries at lower prices and charge the people of the United States inflated prices, then make billions of dollars year and then to add insult to injury tell us that the price is the lowest that they can charge and still make a tiny profit. In one word B___S___ . This is another part of the problem that nobody seems to address. Our health care system is on its death bed. Please someone pull the plug.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

JOHN SMITH,YUCCA VALLEY, CA. — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 16:58:16 GMT

IT IS DISGRACEFUL THAT WE HAVE MONEY TO WASTE ON THE WAR,NASA AND OTHER THINGS LIKE THE BRIDGE TO NOWHERE.WHY CAN'T WE HAVE A NATIONAL HEALTH CARE POLICY AND PUT THE MONOPOLIES IN HEALTH CARE OUT OF BUSINESS?

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Susan, Illinois — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 17:00:39 GMT

In August of last year I was diagnosed with Endometrial cancer. I work for a small company who did not have health insurance (I still work for them and they still have no insurance). The 4 employees here have husbands who have incredible insurance plans. I do not. My lifesaving cancer surgery wouldn't even be discussed by the healthcare professionals who are supposed to save me, unless I could pay at least 50% of it upfront and make incredible payment arrangements afterwards. Subsequently any private insurance wouldn't take me because of this condition (I had applied privately the year before, but I am overweight and was therefore denied by ALL of them). Even the federal medicaid system wouldn't help me because I'm 35 (34 at the time), have a job, have no kids, etc. Since all of this happened, everything is out of pocket. I'm not rich, I'm dying in this debt. My mother borrowed from retirement, friends pitched in. And the governments answer was "You have to be unemployed for 6 months, and THEN we'll have OUR doctors examine you and see if this is life threatening to be considered for anything". SIX months? I would have died. Now, I've been given a second chance at life, and am swimming in debt and I STILL can't get insurance. So now I miss work for all the doctors visits I have to make, don't get paid for that time, have no insurance and keep incurring debt with EACH visit. I don't know all the discussions about politicians and small business insurance availability, but I know SOMETHING MUST BE DONE. A year ago I would have died from my invasive cancer, now I'm dying because of the debt, and to this day any doctor that sees me sees only what I can pay... not my life, my humanity. Something must be done.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Richard, Seattle, WA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 17:06:16 GMT

Regarding the comments by Amy in Macon and Mike in PA about simply joining a chamber of commerce or other professional organization to get group rates. Yes, you can do this, but the plans offered are *very* low-end plans in terms of coverage.

I run a 200 person consulting & development company and we moved to a self-insured plan 2 years ago after almost a decade of untenable double digit increases from our major carriers...we feel that providing good, fully funded healthcare is an essential benefit, but the cost is huge and will eventually outstrip our ability to pay for it even though we are fortunate to be in an industry that pays well.

For 2007, our insurance costs will be greater than our cost for 28,000 sq. ft. of office space, computer equipment, and our 401(k) plan COMBINED...there absolutely IS a healthcare crisis in this country and those who don't believe it are either ignorant, deaf, or both. If you're just listening to what the Republicans and the insurance industry (or their collective mouthpieces on right wing radio) are telling you, you're simply not tuned in to reality.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Vaughn, Washington, DC — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 17:11:51 GMT

We are living in a Third World nation so long as we do not have universal health coverage. I cannot start a business because I need health coverage. I am tied to my boring, unproductive job because I need the health coverage that it provides. Instead of opening a business, paying an employee or two, paying taxes and buying supplies from other businesses, I am stuck just being a taxpayer. Our backwards health policies stifle business formation, creativity, profitability and productivity. Someday, we will learn.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Ted — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 17:13:28 GMT

Janet from Scappoose is quite correct and on target with her comments. Many chamber organizations struggle to find ways that offer access to affordable health care coverage for members, especially those with less than ten employees. Larger chamber organizations frequently do offer access to a group health care plan for small businesses (which they otherwise would not be able to access), but typically with very high premiums and high deductibles.

Chamber organizations could (and should) be part of the solution to this mess, however, too often they tend to be somewhat tepid in their advocacy efforts concerning these matters. And there also tends to be a symbiotic relationship between them and politicians on these types of issues. As I stated in a previous posting, there will be no relief on these issues as long as politicians in both parties continue to advance the agendas of special interests, rather than the interests of citizens that they were supposedly elected to represent.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Reedman, San Jose, CA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 17:30:58 GMT

Looking at Michael Moore's SICKO:
-- bone marrow transplants for kidney cancer is a very experimental treatment. It isn't approved or covered anywhere in the world. Only because we are in the USA is this even an option being discussed
--- health care would probably be as affordable and available here as in Cuba if doctors here were paid the same as they are in Cuba. Not likely to happen ...

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Roy Yarnell, Greenwood, NY — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 17:45:33 GMT

I have read all the blog entries to date, and see no solutions offered.
My suggestion is to enter one Bill into congress removing the existing Federal Health Care Plans, and Federal retirement Plans from the House and Senate legislators. They have special wonderful plans that they approved for themselves long ago that cost them nothing. By removing their plans maybe the Congressmen would have more interest in solving the national Healthcare and Social Security problems for we the people, which would then include them.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Eric - Lake Charles, LA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 18:25:46 GMT

I have a better idea. I want choice, not government mandates. Healthcare is in America is too expensive because of unreasonable liabilities, overzealous government regulation, and government mandated charity. For starters, let's allow nurses to treat minor illnesses and write certain perscriptions, lower the horrendous cost of FDA approval for new drugs and end the frivolous lawsuits. That would take care of many of our problems.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Peter Alaimo, Phoenix, AZ — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 18:41:50 GMT

We currently have a system in which the Merchants of Greed in Big Insurance and Big Pharma make obscene profits and the result is 48 million uninsured people and medical bills as the leading cause of bankruptcy for those who do have insurance.

The only answer is for the government to step in and put an end to this oligopolistic system. Everyone would be covered, no one would be bankrupted, healthcare would be better than now, and the total cost for all would actually go down substantially.

Will it happen? I don't know. Big Insurance and Big Pharma have long had the public brainwashed. And they have bought and paid for the politicians of both parties for many years. I hope it will happen. ButI don't know.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Mary, Tiffin,OH — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:19:27 GMT

Come on people!! Do you really want the government that has ruined Social Security and, yes, AND Medicare to run a healthcare plan? No one has actually spoken to the people directly involved in the system; Nurses, Doctors, Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapists are the ones who work in the trenches day in and day out. We are the ones who see what is happening, not only with our patients, but with ourselves. You want to see the worst healtcare coverage? Look at a healthcare institution, especially a long-term care facility. Medicare and state Medicaid programs have made is so these facilties can barely make ends meet. I personally know several caring, hard-working, compassionate nursing assistants who had to choose between taking the insurance coverage or feeding there family! This is absolutely appalling! America is the so-called richest country in the world, but you could have fooled me. When private insurance companies are allowed to practice medicine without a license, across the country, by mandating how long a person can be hospitalized, or whether that's even an option is immoral, unethical, and downright murderous, regardless of what standard you judge it by. Ask the people in the trenches in healthcare what needs done. Politicians are out for re-election. The top-heavy government is too much of a bureaucray to do anything efficiently (look at the mess following Katrina). Insurance companies should not be for-profit type businesses; they should be providing for those paying for their services, not to pad their own pockets. I am willing to bet that those employed by these racketeers have the best coverage available. After all, why shouldn't they? They make millions of dollars daily.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Bob W. Morrristown, NJ — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:28:31 GMT

And, what most Americans DO NOT REALIZE is that MediCare is the all-time single most budget-deficit causing Federal Government expenditure, by far, over 7 times more costly than all other major expenditure (Social Security, Defense, Transportation, etc.). In a recent article published by USA Today, this fact remains absolutely hidden by the Federal accounting standards - which can not be used by private businesses.

So, the reality is clear - if we ever had a national healthcare plan, the abuse, fraud and theft would leave this country completely broke. Thanks to MediCare, which is costing American taxpayers over 1 trillion dollars per year, our nation is almost broken financially. Almost.

MediCare is the biggest government pork-barrel hand-out in our nation's history. If we add medical coverage to people less than 65 yrs. old, we will be in serious trouble.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Keith, Green Bay, WI — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:35:44 GMT

This country already has a National Healthcare program, it's called Medicare. How many of us would be satified with this level of coverage? How many doctors would continue to practice with Medicare in control?

The system is certainly broke, but we all share in the blame. The new Consumer Directed Health Plans (HSAs and HRAs) are a great examples of gaining control of costs while allowing more individual choice. Unfortunatly, there is little understanding by the average consumer. It's time for all of us to become more engaged. There are plans in all 50 states for the uninsured, underinsured or children. You may be suprised as to what's already available.

Keep in mind that "if you think healthcare is expensive now...wait til it's free... "

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Rita Dick, St. Petersburg, FL — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:46:20 GMT

We are a small corporation of two, aged 61 and 63, and relatively healthy. For health insurance with a $2,000 decuctible we must pay $1,124 per month. This is extremely difficult not to mention outrageous. I have had to forego removal of a small basal cell skin cancer because it would cost me over $3,000 out of pocket, which is almost as bad as when I was charged $17,000 for lying in a hospital bed overnight, and having 5 minutes of anesthesia so my artificial hip could be put back in socket (called reduction). All politicians should be stripped of their cushy health care that we pay for until we all get guaranteed coverage.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 20:04:23 GMT

Actually, Mary, my husband works for a small clinic, and they actually PREFER patients who are covered under Medicare because they know they will get paid! Although the system isn't perfect, it's better than fighting the insurance companies or having their payment taken away because the company was able to weasel out of it, and then they have to go after their patient! My husband and everyone in his clinic are fighting for universal health care because they genuinely care about the health and wellbeing of their patients, and are sick of watching people drop off the radar because they can no longer afford their treatments.
Also, speaking as one of the 45 million uninsured people, I find the system to be just. plain. crazy. I am young, non-smoker, very rarely drink, avoid sodas and fast food, and exercise on a regular basis. I have been very healthy for most of my life. I have been to a doctor a total of 5 times my entire life, but I have a blemish in my health record: when I was SIX YEARS OLD, I had a serious case of pneumonia that resulted in hospitalization, and now every so often I get upper resperatory infections. Nothing horribly life-threatening, never requiring an emergency room visit, and curable with antibiotics and rest, but as a result, obtaining my own health coverage would result in hundreds of dollars out of my own pocket EACH MONTH... equaling more than my car payment, credit card payments, and utilities COMBINED... and even with my employer paying a good portion, I would still be losing $250 a month (and none of these figures include my husband, just me). AND EVEN AFTER PAYING ALL THIS MONEY, I can be denied coverage for some ailments because of my "history" and "pre-existing conditions"? I find health insurance coverage to be almost as scary as being without!
I just have one question... how is this system NOT broken?

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Paul Thomas, Athens, Georgia — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 20:09:18 GMT

There seems to be some confusion between the care provided by doctors, nurses and other healthcare providers - and the ability to pay for that care.

One needs to only look at the reasons for the high costs of medical care to see how to fix that problem. Supply and demand is part of the problem, as well as the costs the medical care provider incurs to provide the services we (the public) wants.

Those costs include their own insucrance premiums to cover their legal bills when the treatment provided doesn't live up to the patient's expectations (ie: law suits).

Being healthy is a right, but only if you exercise (pun intended) it by being pro-active in your lifestyle, and take the blame for whatever it is that ails you.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Renate, Aloha, Oregon — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 20:18:16 GMT

People sometimes confuses health insurance with health care. Insurance is a for-profit third party standing between you and health care. In countries with socialized health care, there is no "insurance" except if you want to buy extras or private coverage. Instead of insurance, they have health care which is considered a basic right of citizenship.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Jim Hix Amelia, Virginia — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 20:49:41 GMT

Dear Mike and Amy,
Where do you live? In a dream world I believe. I am a small business owner with three employees. I can not find less expensive insurance anywhere. I pay $1,900 monthly for health insurance in Virginia. My renewal happens in Sept. and I just received notice that it will be going up to $2,300 per month. It's not the greatest policy in the world but it protects us from catastrophies. I just received 60 and I can not wait until I reach 65 for medicare. Yes, this country has a real problem and it probably will break us especially after the cost of this war. We need some way of joining with large groups of people to get a better rate. I do not know if that would work. People do not realize how much insurance cost the employer. It is not cheap. If the Chamber of Commerce offered a cheaper policy I would certainly get it. It just is not there.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

marcos Orlando Florida — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 03:41:39 GMT

It costs so much because of all the illegals and law suits make it a loss to practice medicine, kick the leeches out and make it harder to bring a case and bam more doctors and cheaper prices. Wow deep eh?

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Zen, irvine CA — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 04:03:40 GMT

You want high healthcare cost or high unemployment. Take your pick.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Christopher Howard, Kars, New Brunswick — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 10:05:11 GMT

I left the United States a year ago to be with my Canadian wife who isn't allowed into the country to be with her Canadian (US Resident) husband due to the rules and regulations of another government fiasco in your country.

Worked out great though, your government doesn't have my 90K a year salary to tax and squander on bloated government. You health care insurance industry doesn't have my $900 a month premiums to inflate their share price with anymore either.

Think about this, how much are you taxed, and deducted each pay period for absolutely nothing in return?

Somewhere over 90% of your health care is spend on items other than providing actual services. Think about that.

Your political system is a crook, Canada is no better but at least with 46% taxation our health care is covered.

My wife an I are expecting our first child in 9 weeks. We've been to two different doctors and a specialist numerous times with no bill to follow. Our care is comparable to the United States and we had no wait times that were any different than I experienced in my six years south of the border. We even got into the specialist after less than 24 hours notice! She even gets one year for maternity leave that is paid at 55%.

So what is more important to you? Is it saving your inept politicians health plan, and campaign contributions? Is it the CEO and share holder of your medical insurance industry? Is it the corrupt judicial system that allows excessive abuses which bankrupt those who aren't lawyers? Or is it your own personal health and that of your family?

Get off your butt and do something, stop being the land of the burdened and stupid and do something!

You're getting screwed!!!!!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Jed Cruz of San Jose, California — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 11:06:04 GMT

Are we a nation of providing true freedom for all citizens or we really a nation that has learned the art of mastering the tools of deceiving hordes of its own citizens into enslavement? The mere fact that our health care system doesn't allow the very core of our essence of freedom, the desire to pursue our creative efforts and energies, to flourish and thrive without a hefty price is sheer hypocrisy to our values of freedom. The confines of a debt and interest alone are enough to be a cumbersome burden, but adding the fact that one would be shackled to a job in order to receive care for health needs is very unnecessary. Such health care needs are basic universal needs and where our freedom is stolen lies within the delivery method of the system: that it is provided to society through private corporations for the sake of making a profit. I have a dream.. I dream about a time when the people have all of their basic needs met, not because they fall into a class of rich or poor, but because they are human and citizens of a great and free nation.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Rick Mosey, Toledo, OH — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 12:50:17 GMT

I read a story in the New York Times over a decade ago that well over 50 percent of corporate employees would leave their jobs to start their own businesses if it were not for health care costs. It struck me then -- as it does now -- that this country's worldwide reputation as innovators was in serious trouble. Do politicians really believe that small business is the lifeblood of the economy? Hardly. And where would corporations be if over half of their workforce broke out of their cubicles and headed for the exits in search of a more fulfilling life?

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Scotticus, Albuquerque, NM — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 14:19:12 GMT

Well I seriously doubt anyone will really scroll down to the bottom to read this, but hey here goes...

What we need in this country isn't socialized health care. What we need is socialized health care _insurance_.

Just like insurance for your car, people will shop around to find the policy that best fits their needs * and their budget*! If the government were to subsidize (I hate that word, but it fits) every man woman and child -Let's say $250/month (half actual median coverage all which is currently paid by employers). Then everybody will be covered for basic medical costs. Want more coverage -buy it yourself. -just like auto insurance policies, some people will want better coverage.
Competition between insurance companies will keep prices down, hospitals will have to lower prices to keep insurance companies sending people to them, people will get the coverage they WANT, and most importantly, every single man/woman/child in the USA would finally receive health care.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Charles Shaw, Tampa, Fl — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 14:29:54 GMT

Actually Mary, the administration of the Medicare program has been privitized. Which means, for profit insurance companies manage the program. Private enterprise and for profit motives have no place in health care.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Barbara, Richland, Washington — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 14:38:22 GMT

My husband started his own company in our basement because he had cancer and couldn't get life insurance as a result. He had three children and a homemaker wife...me. Six years later he died and twenty years later I am CEO of an incorporated business. Our product has become the benchmark technology for what it does in an international small specific niche market.

You've heard the phrase, when life gives you lemons make lemondade. My tiny corporation has wrung the lemon dry. The lemonade isn't enough to cover one of only two health insurance plans available to a micro sized business in our state. Health benefits alone cost us 20% of gross labor costs. Our unaffordable plan also makes it expediant to consider employee candidates on the basis of age and the number of their dependants. This week my company is reducing employee benefits. Dependants are only covered if the employee pays for that. The other option is not to offer benefits at all.

Meanwhile, big business has bigger insurance subscriber pools and optimal financial choice for insurance benefits but is sending its labor overseas to avoid paying health benefits.

Consider, U.S. small businesses provide the majority of total tax income received by our government. What is wrong with this picture?

There is one solution. Universal health care.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

DJ Anderson — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 15:02:39 GMT

One needs to remember that it is not only the Insurance companies causing this mess. Has anyone actually thought to ask why the physicians and their practices hold the insurance companies hostage? What most of you don't realize is that in order for an insurer to be able to pay the physicians, the premiums collected must be able to cover the medical "costs". Some physicians in rural states DEMAND 800% (that's right 800%) of the Medicare allowable, which is used for a baseline in respect to medical costs. Next consider the hospitals. Hospitals routinely overbill both patients and insurers along with state and federal programs. Take one aspirin for instance, cost is typically .5 cents. The hospital is likely to bill $3.00 to $5.50 for just ONE aspirin. Extrapolate that to all hospital services and POW! You have over inflated "costs". Add in the rising drug prices and over utilization of the drugs, and you have a recipe for disaster. Why is it that the US healthcare system is so broken? Because of MONEY, or the love thereof. Part of the problem is that everyone involved is to blame, you can't blame one industry over the other, or blame one player for the whole team playing poorly. Government intervention is needed, but not in the form of a federal "healthplan". Why not "regulate" the industry and set pricing standards for all players involved, including Insurance payers, providers, facilities, pharma, et. all.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Cathode Ray, Cary, NC — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 15:02:46 GMT

I have worked both as an independent technical consultant and as an employee of larger companies. I find that I have an entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to create things on my own. However, after many years, it has finally gotten through my thick skull that the defining characteristics of a person running a small business are not only skills but a) to be in good health b) to have a spouse who works for a large company with insurance. If you don't have these, you won't make it. Those that say health insurance isn't a problem or say stop complaining are most likely in good health.

Health care is relatively affordable if you are in good health, but as time wears on your health declines. It happens to us all. So just as you start to do well with your business, the health insurance costs start to chip away at the success.

Last year I grossed about $90K, but I had $21K of medical expense, a combination of insurance premiums and Dr. visit and prescription copays. At the beginning of the year, I had a dry spell and missed paying the insurance premium on time by 3 days and so got dropped. When I reapplied, due to various conditions my wife and daughter have, they jacked the rate to $1750/month and that's without the copays. Based on last year's copays, I figured would have had to shell out in the range of $32000 of the four of us for this year. That's nuts but at least there are no exclusions. In North Carolina, the charter for Blue Cross is that they have to offer coverage to everyone with no exclusions, but it seems like they can charge whatever they want to the highest risk pool. This lasted 3 months.

I now think I'm over trying to make it as an entrepreneur, not because I don't have the technical skills or where-with-all to do it but because I can't afford health insurance for my family. Now I work for a company with greater than 50 employees, and am on a group plan that takes about $650 out of my before tax salary which is pretty good I guess. But this new insurance company Aetna, is refusing to pay for the generic of Allegra saying you should use the over the counter Claritin. This is ridiculous, how do they know what works and what doesn't? We've been through trying both types years ago.

Anyway, so much for being a self starter... Health insurance, the great stifler of innovation.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Salm1 — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 15:08:12 GMT

I have been self employed for 4 years. I am the only employee, (for some reason, most major insurers will only take you if you have two or more employees). That leaves me with a very limited number of questionable quality insurers and one big name insurer. I cover my family of 5 with a high deductible (over $4000 per year) HSA policy. Here are the problems:
1) Average increase since 2003 = 17%/year on premiums and a forced equal increases in deductible each year. In other words, double monthly payments in 4 years.
2) Limited choices of providers (as stated above)
3) Most policies are broken into 5 or more sections (general care, prescription, hospitalization (inpatient and outpatient), emergency care, etc... and each section has different deductibles, different co-pays, different maximums, different items that are or are not covered, etc, etc, etc... Instead of paying for peace of mind, you feel as if you are gambling or buying stock. You have no real sense of how much it will cost you each year and you are never pleasantly surprised. It is always worse that you hoped. I am no genius but i am also no fool and I cannot predict my medical costs year to year and that is with no major issues, (thank goodness) during these 4 years.
3) Most policies available to the self employed do not cover dental, Optical, well baby care, checkups and more. All those annual costs are 100% out of pocket.

This rant is getting too long. The bottom line is I want a simple policy that covers my families medical issues, that provides peace of mind, (major illness or injury will not bankrupt us), and I should know what my maximum yearly or lifetime costs will be no matter what. It should be affordable, (I am paying nearly 17% of my annual income currently for my medical policy) and I should have better choices.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

connie peters. — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 15:30:05 GMT

this whole usa has become sicko,,no feelings no one care they all are money hungry ,its amoneyca,thank the lord for europa..

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Chris, TN — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 16:24:42 GMT

Dear DJ Anderson, you have got to check your facts better. I practice in TN, I have been open two years, have yet to make a profit, work three jobs to keep my clinic open and pay my nurse. I too am a small business owner who can only pay the health insurance of me and my nurse by working additional jobs. I am lucky to get even medicare rates by payers, I have yet to get paid by medicare. As for inflated demands of reimbursement to insurers, I don't get a say in that, I'm lucky if I'm told ahead of time what the payment will be.
However, hopefully this office will be okay in another year or two. The thing is, if I didn't have to deal with insurance companies or medicare, I could get by with charging less than 50 dollars on average for a patient visit. My overhead per month is about 35,000, and thats just to keep the doors open. I could cut that to 20,000 just by not having to pay people to help me get insurance claims in, and referrals, prior authorizations, etc done. The paperwork takes more time and cost than delivering the care.
To those of you who think nationalizing all health care is the way to go...please remember what happens at the VA centers monthly. Walter Reed was just a small look at the inefficiencies of nationalized service. If you think its money seeking docs...I could have made more money doing something else for less educational cost (which by the way I'll be paying untill I'm 62), less hours, and less hassel.
Lastly, please realize that doctors and hospitals have been taking pay cuts every year. Salaries for docs have not keep up with inflation since 1990. Medicare has been instructed to cut costs and has decided to do this by decreasing reimbursement 4% per year. How many people do their job for less money each year.
If we could fix the payer system we could fix the system.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

R, Orlando, FL — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 16:30:50 GMT

It is funny how we do not face the real problem, excessive compensation for health care providers. If you notice how much they make in socialist countries, it is a small fraction of ours(some doctors in the US make many millions of dollars, or how about the $10 aspirin at the hospital) does that seem reasonable? In the movie Sicko, one doctor made $250k and lived in a $1 Mil home, I can accept that. It is not the insurance industry causing the higher premiums, the claim costs keep going up. We all need to work with our congressmen to figure a way to limit income to them. We would see the cost of insurance, whether private or socialized plummet and we all would have the ability to possibly afford the treatment without insurance except for major procedures(where insurance should be needed). I personally do not want the government in total control, we see the IRS tax code, just imagine the plan document for healthcare! They have proven time and again they cannot properly control funds, what's the deficit now? Anyone who wants the US to have socialized medicine needs to have their head checked, because it won't be free, they will have to tax us all that work whether you want it or not and the poor and immigrants will still get a free ride. Same boat, different recipient of payment. Wake up America, don't fall for empty promises, think about what is the root problem!!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Glenda Farmer, Keizer, Oregon — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 18:08:27 GMT

My husband and I are owners of a small cleaning service. We were without health care coverage for several years. Then my husband began suffering from chronic pain for which OTC pain relievers provided no relief. I researched and found coverage with Kaiser Permanente, an HMO, who had no limitations on preexisting conditions. We only covered my husband at $115 a month with perscriptions costing $15 each at $60 per month. That was affordable. He was eventually diaganoised with Fibromyalgia, a syndrome for which there is no cure but the symptoms are managed with medications and life style changes. For him that meant cutting back on the number of hours he worked and the type of cleaning jobs we scheduled. That affected our income, but in the beginning we were able to manage. Now, he is still with Kaiser but we pay $377 a month and 50% on perscriptions which run $550 a month. He is doing his best to work 4 hours a day. Some months we do make ends meet!

I remained without coverage until my youngest daughter moved in with us, Then, I was finally able to get coverage with FHIAP because she is a dependent and our income is within range. When she ages out of the program I will loose my coverage. Currently I am being treated for depression and high cholestral.

For both of us, health coverage is now a necessity and I am concerned about the all to real possibility that someday we will not be able to afford coverage.

A few years ago our state came up with a state health plan to cover those who need medical coverage. It was a good idea, but the politicians did not include with the plan a plan to permanently fund this coverage. Hence only the children are currently covered.

We definately need a better way of providing for our citizens health coverage. A national coverage of some sort, but ran by a not-for-profit non-government enity. Initially a committee needs to be established to work on a plan with a reasonable time limit set in which to work out the plan. The committee should include some average non-government-employed citizens, a couple business owners from both small and large business, health care practioners from various levels, a couple government people who understand how the government runs the finances and current entitlement programs, and finally a couple of residents who have lived under national health care programs. All aspects of other national health care programs should be honestly and without bias studied for their successful and unsuccessful workings. Then a plan drawn up that would work for us, providing preventative care, regular coverage, catistrophic coverage and perscriptions. The coverage would be funded in part by taxes--a guaranteed amount, and by premium payments from citizens based on ability to pay and number covered in a household. There would be a ceiling on the total amount any individual or family paid for the coverage. Our congressmen and women whould also be covered under this system and pay the premium as well. All citizens would be covered regardless of age and status. This would do away with medicare and medicade. The bulk of the funds the not-for-profit enity received would go to pay for health care costs with a small percentage to cover the administrative costs of the enity. Reasonable costs should be established for all health care needs and procedures. Finally, a reputable watch dog group would be appointed to run oversight on the workings of the not-for-profit enity.

Th plan needs to be submitted to the citizens to look over and let their congressional representatives know their input. It is likely that such a plan would not be approved by congress without citizen pressure,

I may be a dreamer, but I have hope that something can work out. Any one else have any other ideas??

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

David Hagen Yakima Washington — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 18:58:37 GMT

Universal health care is something we can not afford. First of all any time the Government gets involved it's more expensive remember the $700 hammer? Secondly the Dr's are going to get Medicare reimbursement rates? That will drive them out of business in a hurry. We need to start with tort reform and then utilize not for profit insurance companies.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Ray Ready, Central, FL — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 19:17:41 GMT

I own a small business and pay $750 per month for family coverage. This includes my wife, 2 kids and myself. We recently had a baby that had major complications with bills totalling around $150,000.00. The bills were all paid promptly. This is not astronomical pricing it really was a great deal and will take 15 to 20 years for the Insurance company to recoup that money. What you all fail to realize is that you will pay regardless of who runs the "System". You need to think through your argument before your irrationally jump off the deep end and fall for the illusion of affordable universal healthcare. Its going to cost you the same its just no longer going to be called premiums it will be called taxes. Unless we become a communist socialist country and the government controlls everything in which case you will pay dearly with your standard of living. No matter how you slice it you will pay. The only way to truly make things better is to use the power you have as a consumer and shop things around get multiple quotes on insurance. Contact the doctor/pharmacy before filling your prescription to get the price and go to the one thats cheaper. Treat everything as if you were paying for it and negotiate with people then you will see a reduction in healthcare costs. You are forgetting that you would not want anyone controlling the maximum for what you charge for your services other than the person paying for it. Dont shirk your responsibility. Make America great again not by trying to emulate Socialist EU countries which are not great but rather go back to the prinicapls and ideals that made America great to begin with. God bless America.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Dean Columbia, SC — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 20:06:11 GMT

Do the math. Look up medical lawsuit payments and devide by the population. This is half of the problem. The other half is who pays when people get health care that can't pay? We all do. Each company should be mandated to pay for health care or pay a tax that is used to pay for those who can't pay. This levels the competive playing field. Not fair some companies pay and some don't. Once those two things are done I think we will find most of us can afford health care. No government health care--have they ever done anything right!!!!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Tom Harbin, Bloomsbury, NJ — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 20:38:23 GMT

I am retiring and closing down my small business of 27 years. I'm tired and, for the last few years, not profitable. A large part of that is the medical insurance I have always provided my employees at no cost to them. But every year the cost to me has gone up - a lot.
My compeditors never provided free coverage. Why should I have had to? This should be a function of government. The time is long past. The system itself is "Sicko".

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Sheldon Strauss, Columbus Ohio — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 22:24:30 GMT

Wake up the problem is very simple private insurance covers people who healthy enough to work. When anyone becomes sick, disabled they lose the private insurance because they can no longer pay for it. You then spend what ever money you have left and wind up on medicaid. This is our system, the private insurers take billons and give little in return. Next time someone asks about socialized medicine being bad ask about the police and fire dept. or maybe socalized roads.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Dave C, Utah — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 16:05:27 GMT

I am a small business owner, nailed with high insurance costs. Yet, I'd still rather pay too much for insurance than to have the government take it over. That's what Michael Moore was advocating in his film. Yes, it would be "free", but it would be a nightmare getting care.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Yve Lunsford, jacksonville, Florida — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 16:09:19 GMT

Local government needs to be held accountable. City council, Mayors, Governors, Senators then congress. The President will not solve the health care problem. Local first then Washington. I bet your city councilmen have health care. The President is bought and paid for. Get involved locally!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Steve Fernlund, Las Vegas, NV — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 19:47:21 GMT

Check this out:
The health care savior for small business

http://www.nvtoday.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=229&Itemid=2

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Brian, Virginia — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 20:29:48 GMT

I am in a 4-person start-up company and have health care coverage. It is an excellent policy through Blue Cross Blue Shield. Only 2 of us opted for it because the other 2 have spouses that already had coverage. We did not partner up with any other companies. We got a policy for companies between 2 and 10 people big. If you are starting a company, you have to realize you need to know how to run a company, not just be good at your profession. That includes understanding finance, accounting, marketing, and yes, HR. If you can't get inexpensive insurance because you smoke or are overweight, then recognize the choices in your life actually effect you. You can't get insurance because you have a bad job that is tough to stay healthy? Get a good job. And if you can't do that because you didn't stay in school or do well in school, then realize that the choices you made in life actually effect you. We will be in sorry shape if we go away from private insurance to government run insurance. All that will happen is that the good doctors will only accept private insurance or no insurance and only the wealthy will be able to see them. All of you who complain now will have worse care.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

James Lee — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 20:59:50 GMT

That guy is full of bull, he makes things up and lies. I am a small self employed person. and doing very well thank you. No thanks to him who makes Millions off of negative lies and heresay. J.Lee

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Wanda Mullen Alpharetta, Georiga — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 08:34:58 GMT

My husband and I have a small Business and pay a big amount each month to stay insured. We even pay a big amount out of our own pocket for co-pays and what insurance doesn't pay for some reason. We just want to stay healthy and enjoy life and live to a ripe old age.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

C.J. Alabama — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 15:46:05 GMT

I am currently disabled due to the failure of the healthcare system. Poor quality care due to not having insurance caused serious problems. If anyone actually wanted to do anything about this mess it would have been done long ago.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

W. Giera, Annapolis, MD — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 18:14:16 GMT

RE:Amy, Macon, Georgia
There is absolutely ZERO support available through the sources you mention. If anyone has a pre-existing condition (like everyone!) you cannot get insurance at the small business level. Only a comprehensive national plan will work. Period!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Ed , Portland Or — Sun, 29 Jul 2007 04:16:54 GMT

My wife and I went to China to visit her family.
While there, I developed an ear infection.
I saw a doctor in a clinic there. (Specializes in ear, nose ,throats).
The cost of the office visit including prescription?
$4.00 (FOUR) american dollars!!!!!!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

CONCERNED CITIZEN — Sun, 29 Jul 2007 04:21:08 GMT

HEALTHCARE IS A BUSINESS. I AM A DOCTOR AND THIS IS HOW I MAKE MY LIVING, PAY MY STUDENT LOANS, AND SUPPORT MY FAMILY. INSURANCE REIMBURSEMENTS SUCK AND ARE VERY LOW, IF A PATIENT EVEN HAS INSURANCE. ALSO WE SET UP PAYMENT ACCOUNTS AND THE PATIENTS DEFAULT ON THE REPAYMENTS. PEOPLE PAY THE CABLE BILL AND CELL BILLS BEFORE PAYING SOMEONE TO SAVE THEIR LIVES. I HAVE TO EAT. THE ONLY THING THAT CONCERNS BIG BUSINESSES SUCH AS WALMART, AT&T, VERIZON PHONES, SPRINT PHONES, TIME-WARNER CABLE, GE, AND FORD ARE SAVING DOLLARS AND MAKING A LARGER PROFIT FOR THEMSELVES (CEOs). I BELIEVE THAT NOT ONLY SHOULD HEALTHCARE BE REGULATED BUT ALSO CABLE TV, CELL PHONE COMPANIES, THE BIG OIL COMPANIES, AND THESE CHEATING / THIEVING POLITICIANS. I HAVE A FAMILY AND BILLS TO PAY TOO. I HAVE TO PAY FOR MY OWN HEALTHCARE AS WELL SO JOIN THE CLUB AND QUIT COMPLAINING. 1 OUT OF 3 SMALL BUSINESSES FOLD IN THE FIRST 2 YEARS, REEXAMINE AND START OVER BUT DON'T BLAME HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS FOR YOUR PROBLEMS, FOR YOU HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO ATTEND SCHOOL FOR MOST OF YOUR FORMATIVE YEARS AS WELL TOO.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

S. Brown — Sun, 29 Jul 2007 05:43:13 GMT

Time for our government to care more about its' own citizens and spend time, money, and resources developing a national, universal healthcare program, instead of starting wars and rebulding efforts for those citizens of other nations like Iraq.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Reuben Nieves, Sacramento, CA — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 05:46:30 GMT

If you want solutions to the health care problem, you have to think "out of the box" I see this economy as extremely weak. The stock market is no indication of its strength since much of the profit are made from the business they send over seas. The middle class is shrinking leaving the rich and poor becoming larger. Forclosures and bankruptcies are at record levels and the deficit is reaching 9 trillion dollars.
What I propose is a national sales tax dedicated to paying that portion of health care that manufacturing and transportation employers pay for the employees who are citizen and permanent aliens. This would give employers an incentive to stay in the United States rather than to go over seas to send the products back here to sell. This would in turn increase employment which would support Medicare and Social Security. Any money left over should be applied to paying down the national debt which could strengthen the dollar.
For those who scoff at another tax they have to realize that taxes are coming. Would you rather be taxed and have a job or not taxed and have your job go over seas? No one has yet come up with a credible solution to health care or businesses leaving to go overseas. If you have a better solution let me hear it.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Mark — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 18:28:45 GMT

In the UK the National Health Service is available to all. BUT ... no-one wants to use it because you know the ONLY part getting any money is frontline services i.e. Accident and Emergency. (However, there is real reassurance that health services are there to some degree at the point of need - FREE of CHARGE.)

Just as in Education, British citizens are opting for private health care. Expensive? Yes. Worth it? Definitely (at least in my experience).

The USA has led the way in driving everything toward money and free-market economics. Surely the richest nation on the planet can
a) Provide excellent healthcare for all citizens and
b) Teach it's citizens to be better "financial managers" if they insist on the free-market model?

I guess by keeping people financially inept and by not providing health-care for all, it's easier to fleece them!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Charles Roy Stark, Clarksville, TN USA Retired — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 01:19:34 GMT

I have the solution to several of our problems that face us here in ths US today. Real simple, reinstate the draft. All US citizens 18-35 must serve their country for 2 years. This would give us all the medical personnel we need. The United States Public Health Service is still out there. The USPS is a uniformed service just like the military. If you do not believe in bearing arms and don't want to be in the medical service, recreate the CCC. Rebuild the nations highwaysand roads. Rebuild the forgotten urban areas,rebuild our public parks and recreation area. Make Americans take ownership in their country again. This is also job training. All of this can be accomplished. There are hundreds of thousands of retired, or disabled people out there with tons of experiance to pass on and train the younger generation.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Matt — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 01:34:53 GMT

I keep hearing from Republican's how great health care is in this country. I must admit, 3 years ago that was probably me, but I got hurt on the job, seriously hurt. I was able to keep health coverage for 3 years with Cobra, but that has run out. Now no one and I mean no one will give me coverage. The health companies hang up on me or never return my call. I am disabled with horrible pain and burning numbness in my neck, arms and legs, I have had two surgeries and am waiting for another, but it I shouldn't have had to wait this long, the insurance company delayed surgery for over a year, the first time and now after three years there is no safety net. To make things even worse the $300 I get for disability is too much to qualify for Medicare. I always thought there was help for the seriously injured in this country, no Worker's Comp. does not cover anything NOT related to the injury. To all the people who say we are best, maybe some day you will be in my situation, then you will know what true helplessness feels like.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

fsilber, Memphis, Tennessee — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 15:13:14 GMT

My fear of socialized medicine is that it will be politicized. Like the public education system, it will become a boondoggle by which politicians reward ethnic voting blocks and big-money contributors with jobs and contracts, at the expense of health-care quality.

Unfortunately, I don't know the solution.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Marianne Crist Hagerstown, Maryland — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:27:10 GMT

There should be national healthcare. I, for one am tired of being taxed without representation. I would rather pay taxes that get me something in return, such as healthcare, than pay taxes for a lot of welfare recipients.
Also, it would not cost $510.00 because the government would put a cap on how much who can charge for what. At least thats the way in Germany, it costs less tha HALF of what it costs to insure one person a year.
Medical care in the US is overpriced to begin with due to the insurance racket!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Jim east Indialantic Florida — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 01:38:15 GMT

My wife and i are in our late 50's,have a small business and obtained a health savings plan about 5 years ago. The premium has increased to $980.00 per month with $ii,000 deductable, We have spent $30,000 this year on med. We,as many owners i know are looking to europe for our future before we go broke. If large companys can move,so can we.some american dream. jim indialantic florida.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Christine Duncan, Arvada Colorado — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 21:32:12 GMT

One thing that I believe would bring health care costs down would be to make them clear. When you go to the store to buy something, there is a price on the shelf. When you go to the doctor for a visit or a treatment, that cost should also be out in the open. Then if say, your dentist says you need a root canal, you should be able to shop around for it, the same way you can compare prices for tires for your car.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Rick Brown, Little Rock, AR — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 13:32:12 GMT

The problem with the medical system is the same problem we experience with the education system. Too much government interference. Supply and demand dictate that any subsidized endeavor is going to drive up demand while supply remains the same thus driving up costs. As long as the government dumps money into the health care system in the form of medicaid, medicare, health programs for women & children and aliens and the "poor", there will be escalating costs.

Contrary to poular belief, the government is NOT here to help us- they are here to rule us and make us dependent on them for goods and services we could provide for ourselves if they would stay out of our businesses and our lives and quit forcing the productive person to support the parasites.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Michael Lakkland Fl — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 22:40:10 GMT

I'm self employed and dont have health insurance for my wife I'm looking for something affordable can you help us

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Annette Cowling — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 12:08:42 GMT

We need a universal health care system in this country. My husband was paying $600 per month for his insurance when he left his job of 24 years. I have also paid a ton of money for health insurance and never used it. Now that he's self employed he needs shoulder surgery, which his company denied, though he got the torn shoulder doing the same stupid job for 24 years. Our insurance has a $3000 deductable now, covers no office visits or medicine. He is trying to work in pain and also has another disease called ankolosing spondalitis, which is resurfacing and causing pain again. No help is available for people unless you have kids and it's ridiculous. All he wants is to repair his shoulder so he can work. No one cares about people who have always worked for a living, especially in Wisconsin. I would move out of this state if I could. But we have a house and who would buy it? I see the same houses for sale for years in our neighborhood.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

DEMI ,GREECE — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:20:19 GMT

HELLO EVERYONE ,
I AM A GREEK CITIZEN AND WHEN I SAW MICHAEL MOORE'S FILM
I WAS IN SHOCK FOR ABOUT AN HOUR.I FEEL SO DEPRESSED FROM WHAT I SAW AND ALSO CONSIDERING THE FACT THAT OUR GOVERNMENT BLIND POLICY ALMOST FOLLOWS UP YOUR COUNTRY'S EXAMPLE IN HEALTH SERVICES.
MAYBE THE NEXT PLAN IS TO PUT US ALL TO SLEEP FOR EVER AND ENJOY THEIR WEALTH.
GOD HELP US ALL.

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Mira, Mountain View, CA — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 15:51:06 GMT

After many years of managing large organizations in the corporate world I started my own small discount office furniture</a> business five years ago. I have struggled to offer a solid health care plan for my employees. We have had steady growth over the years, but not the cost of health care has grown even faster. Do you know of any states that offer a subsidized small business health care plan like Arkansas?

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Diana Pardo — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 01:18:31 GMT

If you can't get affordable health care, please visit

www.AffordableHealthProgram.webs.com

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Amber,Riverhead, NY — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 23:27:07 GMT

To us, the average American, Small Business owner Middle income parent that has a middle income job without benefits...we must ask ourselves what are we missing here? We claim to be the best country in the world(maybe because more than half of us have probably never seen outside our borders) Our dollar is worth S%^t and countries like France have Universal health care.... I here first hand from the French that their medical care is very good and medicines are cheap.
So if the prospect of universal care doesnt seem to threaten the quality of medical care and people like us who drive the country's economy are barely keeping our heads above water because we are terrified that our 3 year old will get the flu or our eight year old may break his arm or God forbid we get Pregnant!!!!we could go out of business ...and why do my mexican neighbors whom I have taken I liking to but why do they bring home just as much as I do after I pay my overhead but they get FREE health care!!!! ...who is benifiting here and what are we missing. and what can we do about it in "the best country in the world"!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 15:24:00 GMT

The french Rock!!!!!!!!!!

For many small business owners, health care system is "Sicko"

Edgar Abbes Garden Grove, CA — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:03:53 GMT

As a small business owner I must say yes I live in fear. One slipped disk or hand injury or failing kidney, or clogged heart artery and its Chapter 13!