<p>The legends have spun so far out of control, it is difficult to obtain accurate information.</p>
<p>For example, I don’t necessarily dispute that “premium increases may be moderating.” However, Texas residents were told that premiums would decrease if reform were instituted. The first article suggests that even more reforms are needed before decreases may be expected. [See, the “I am from the government and I am here to help” category of falsehoods. Do you really think insurance companies are going to give it up willingly?</p>
<p>I also don’t dispute that the frequency of claims is decreasing. Legislatures have made it increasingly difficult to sue for medical malpractice and the result is there are fewere claims: It is simply isn’t worth the time and expense to sue in many circumstances. </p>
<p>I have an anecdotal example: Client of mine takes here mother to emergency room. Doctor’s diagnosis is that mother is suffering from “nerves.” Prescribes some anti-depressants. [Mother had been seen a few times in previous months for suspected heart problems and none found.] Mother dies the next morning. Incorrect diagnosis? Not sure. How would you feel though if told that the matter simply wasn’t worth investigating. Since mother was retired, her life has no substantial economic value in Texas today. Combined with the standard of proof needed to succesfully prosecute an emergency provider [good samaritan protections and all], there is simply too high a burden to see whether there is a wrong that requires a right.</p>
<p>These are the hidden consequences of raising the barrier for satisfaciton. As long as it is somebody else that suffers, it is easy to criticize the lawyers as being too litigious. When it is your turn at the bar and you have suffered a loss, the feelings change. I feel badly for this young woman and the loss she has suffered; unfortunately, she will not likely ever get any answers.</p>
<p>My real concern, however, is not for the protection of lawyers. Rather, it is the availability of health insurance in general. [Don’t remember the exact number but something close to 40% of Americans don’t have health insurance.] The tragedy is that many, many people don’t even seek medical care because they simply can’t afford it. Those that speak of “nationalized health care” as if it were the end of all thing American simply don’t appreciate the hidden costs of not providing for health care. Most amazing, are those that are against nationalized health care that will readily fight any decrease in Medicare benefits [a nationalized health care plan that is amazingly efficient]. Furthermore, this administration has passed a new Medicare plan that represents the most costly expansion of nationalized health care ever at what result? Confusion among users and a blatant payoff to the pharmaceutical industry. It is a shame.</p>
<p>It is of no significance to this website and I don’t expect to change any reader’s mind. National health care issues, or the failure thereof, drive my vote these days. As each of us age and require more and more health care, it will become of more concern to each of you.</p>
<p>Too long a post, but at least I have learned how to italicise.</p>