My article came from the New York Times.
Bernard, Tara Siegel "For Consumers, Clarity on Health care Changes" http://nytimes.com/
Terms to Know: Affluent-having a generously sufficient and typically increasing supply of material possessions
Doughnut Hole- a big, expensive gap in coverage that affects millions
Last night, a revised form of the health care bill was sent to Capitol Hill ready for the signature of our president, Barack Obama. It has definitely been a long time coming and much conspiracy and controversy has risen over the effects of passing this bill. Not one Republican signed the bill and even some held up signs outside Capitol Hill that read, "Kill the Bill". Others believe that it will be a big step forward, providing a peace of mind to many Americans who really want or need health insurance.
The legislation is meant to provide coverage for as many as 32 million people who had either been denied coverage before or could not afford their increasing insurance premiums. Most Americans will be required to have health insurance and will face federal penalties if they do not but it. Affluent families will be required to pay additional taxes on their health care policies and plans will now prohibit consumers form placing lifetime limits on medical coverage and cancelling the policies of those whom fall ill. And within the three months following the signing of the bill into law, people who have been locked out of the insurance market because of pre-existing conditions will be eligible for subsidized coverage through a new, high-risk insurance program.
This new bill proposes many new changes legislators predict will occur in the near future. In 2013, affluent families with annual income above $250,000 will be required to pay an additional 3.8% tax on their investment income, while contributing more to the Medicaid program for their payroll taxes. Starting immediately, consumers who hit the doughnut hole will receive a $250 rebate. In 2011, they will receive a 50% discount on brand name drugs. By 2020, the "doughnut hole" in the prescription drug program will be eliminated.
I favor the philosophies of those who support this bill. It is still not too late for us to come together in solidarity and care for mankind. No one can be denied the right to life so why be denied the right to sufficient health care plans with affordable health care premiums? We shall see where this bill takes us. ( Hopefully not to the hospital!! ;-)
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Hey Myeisha good topic for a blog! I was just watching a new story on this bill and I am horrified by the partisanship within Congress. There are clearly motives in Congress that have nothing to do for the benefit of Americans but rather for the benefit of political parties. I was wondering what you think the issues that the Republicans have with this bill are and whether they are valid concerns?
ReplyDeleteMyeisha, I seriously laughed when I read that no Republicans signed the bill. That's so sad!
ReplyDeleteSo this blog hits a soft spot, primarily because I have had many health problems that I needed to take care of, but it's really expensive. We had to pay like $400 for an ultrasound (my tummy was hurting, I'm not pregnant)
All of this made me appreciate the healthcare reform even more. I thought of all the people who couldn't afford their medications, and those who were forced to go without the necessary help.
You said that the more affluent will have to pay more in taxes, and it's about time something like that happened. We just finished talking about immigration in our Social Justice class. How do you think this will ultimately affect the popular sentiment on immigrants and of those who "don't deserve" health care because they are not citizens or residents?
Hey Myeisha,
ReplyDeleteYour blog was really informative and gave me info on the feelings of the people about the plan. I am happy that we passed a Health Care Bill and agree when you say that we have come a long way. However do you thinik that there will be any modifications to the bill because of the republicans not agreeing with the present bill?
Hey My My!
ReplyDeleteThis is a great blog & you write so well! I totally concur with you about the matter of health care. I think this new piece of legislation is great for constitutes in America, and I hope people take advantage of this bill and acquire affordable health care!
To answer your question Kristine, I definitely believe that there will be add-ons to the bill, just to please the Republicans in the Seante. They are not going to let this go without and fight and will make it as hard as they can for Democrats to rest.
ReplyDeleteTo answer your question Amira, I think that immigrants and people we call illegal aliens will bnot be discriminated against witht his bill. They will have the same rights and opportunities as we all will. Everyone deserves healthcare.
ReplyDeleteTo answer the econstudent, i think that the Republicans are fearful of how the affluent families will be taxed more. Republicans are apart of that party which means that there pockets will be touched. They do not like that idea and have exhibited it by protesting this bill.
ReplyDelete