Universal care is the only answer

The time has come for the United States to join the rest of the developed world and admit that health care is a fundamental human right in modern society. The reality is clear. We are struggling.

Two of the largest industries/employers in our country have collapsed and one of the key issues in this collapse: the spiraling cost of health care. We are a society that is known for its compassion and willingness to assist in times of disaster.

As the unemployment rate grows our neighbors join the over 45 million people in the United States who have no health insurance. What greater disaster has our country seen than over 45 million citizens unable to receive the health care they need? We cannot progress when we live only one serious illness from complete bankruptcy and financial destruction. In Germany universal health care is the norm.

The government spends about 10 percent of their GDP on the system, compared to the United States where millions go without coverage and the government spends almost 16 percent of the GDP on health care. Take the examples of Switzerland or Taiwan, both capitalist economies and both recently (within the last 20 years) having adopted a universal health care model. These countries spend about 11 percent and 6 percent, respectively, on health care and still enjoy a system that protects all of their citizens.

If we want to remain the greatest country on earth it is time we look to the future and we join our neighbors in recognizing that health care is a fundamental human right and a necessary step in the economic growth of our nation.

Jason G Spoor

Teacher's union president

Palatine-Schaumburg High School District 211

Chicago