Looking forward to benefits of reform
Like so many Americans I cheered when Congress finally acted to improve our health system with the Health Care and Education Affordability Act of 2010.
In 2008 I spent $18,000 out of pocket to cover treatments that my insurance did not cover. Last year my insurance was bought out by an insurer that finds it necessary to tell me on each statement how much of my lifetime benefit I have used.
I cannot tell you how I look forward to one day seeing that line deleted from my statements. The purpose of insurance was to cover us when we are sick. How that got lost in the pursuit of profits is a national tragedy.
The stability that secure coverage will bring to American families will strengthen our nation. The cost savings of reform will strengthen our economy. The affirmation that Americans have the right to quality affordable health care will strengthen our democracy.
This act was an important first step toward quality care for all. Let us keep going. It has taken more than my life time to get this far. I am hopefully that once Americans feel the effects of reform we will be ready to take the next step together.
Gloria Huezo
Hanover Park