YOUR COMMENTS

I typically never endorse expansion of government and I always question it's ability to efficiently deliver services. With that said, I find some of the comments regarding rationing quite amusing. What do you think the current insurance companies do?

To me, there seems to be a nearly "across the board" implicit denial of every medical claim by insurance companies for any procedure other than regular checkups.
I'm sure we could come up with tens of thousands of examples in NH alone.

I even saw this with my car insurance company who was refusing to pay just what I owed on my new car despite it being a total loss through no fault of my own.
I know many NH homeowners in the more recent past have run into this "brick wall" with their home plans and flooding not being covered.

What is the common thread here? Every example is a person who is paying out of pocket in advance for coverage that has to be battled for later.

Government run health care may not be the solution, but for-profit coverage leaves a lot to be desired at the moment.
- Herb C., Concord

Wow...this vitriol that passes for news in NH is saddening. It's funny how Republican officials who are ON PUBLIC HEALTH PLANS don't want you to get the SAME PLAN as them. If the plan was so bad do you think that they would be on it? A public option would pay for itself as a non-profit insurance option. Medicare has 3% overhead, private industry has 20% overhead and makes in excess of $2 Billion in profits. As for private competition, there are only 7 major insurance companies in the US. Most of these collude with each other and the hospitals (Blue Cross/BlueShield) to raise the prices. Plus when Republicans were in the took away our right to get Canadian drugs (from the same manufacturers that we get in the US), took away our right to negotiate prices and broke Medicare by giving it to private companies. That's right, Medicare is run by private companies leading to less care for higher prices. Look it up. Republican talking points are coming from the big insurance and pharmaceutical companies. As unbiased as you'd like to be, if you have to worry about where your funding comes from your opinion is immediately biased. Getting dropped by an insurance company because you cost too much money is just immoral. This trillion dollar health care costs what it does because our system is so broken. There were no outcries when the Bush administration funded the Iraq war, which has cost significantly more money. Listen, I hate spending increases and tax increases as much as many conservatives, but if you can't see how the current system is broken and we need a change to something that's potentially better then nothing is going to change and our costs will keep going up until you can't afford health care and then with all the baby boomers granny really will die from the lack of health care.
- PT, Athol, MA

Katherine,

Read the document it clearly states that no one who is not legally working in the US is eligible. If you are legally employed in the US you can buy into the system. We do have many foreign individuals working here legally and paying taxes, they are eligible, illegal’s are not.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no unauthorized aliens shall be eligible for any item or service furnished under this title. The Secretary shall not provide funding under 1903('l:t~ for medical assistance provided to an individual unless such individual has been determined to be eligible for medical assistance under this title on the basis of "(A) United States citizenship or nationality through the verification process described in section 1903(x); or
"(B) qualified alien status through the immigration status verification system described in section 1137(d).

This is where you Republicans take a speck of truth (legally employed aliens who pay taxes are eligible) and turn it into “we will be paying for illegal immigrants health care”. Do you understand the misinformation here? Did you even read the document you linked to?

The document clearly states if you are not legal you are not covered.
- Jim, Raymond NH

While I wish Jake from Manchester and Jim from Raymond were correct about the provision in HR 3200 concerning illegals being denied health care on our dime, here is the actual pdf version of the amendment, known as the "Deal Amendment" which liberal Democrats, and Grant and Space - two of the "Blue Dogs" - refused.

http://energycommerce.house.gov/Press_111/20090730/hr3200_deal_1.pdf
- Katherine, Atlanta, GA

I spent 9 years of my life in Britain. I love the people, but wouldn't wish the health care system on my worst enemy.
- Michael F, Seminole Florida

For those who favor a public plan, please explain how it will save money. Our current public plan, Medicare, has a several trillion dollar deficit. One of the reasons for the higher costs of private insurance is cost shifting from medicare.

The cost of a public plan covering far more people at higher rates will spiral out of control. Of course care will be rationed and people will be denied care, it is the only way to manage the exploding costs. If you think otherwise, you also must believe in the tooth fairy.

Nothing is done to manage malpractice which is a huge reason for the cost explosion because the trial lawyers contribute far too much to the campaigns of of the politicians. This must be managed to begin to control costs.
- John, Onset, ma

I have known about Veterans sometimes getting lousy medical care for more than 10 years.

Soldiers and Veterans should receive better health care and health insurance than members of Congress.

Members of Congress should have to get their health care at military hospitals and Veterans hospitals. Members of Congress should have to see the Doctors and nurses of military hospitals and Veterans hospitals. Members of Congress should have to get their surgeries at Veterans hospitals and military hospitals.

Members of Congress should NOT receive any more pay raises until health care and health insurance for soldiers and Veterans significantly improves.

Soldiers and Veterans SHOULD BE able to get their health care at any hospitals and health clinics they want.

People should be allowed to buy into Medicare or a health insurance plan similar to what members of Congress have. Monthly premiums could be based on monthly incomes and coverage options.

People should NOT have to have health insurance.

Businesses should NOT have to provide health insurance to employees. Businesses should NOT have to pay a tax if they do not provide health insurance to employees.

People and businesses should be allowed to buy health insurance plans sold in other states.

Many state governments may want to form regional health insurance plans that sell individual plans and group plans.
- Ken Stremsky, Manchester, NH

Mega dittos Jim from Raymond!! You are well informed. The right wing lemmings are to stupid to realize they are slaves to the drug and pharmacutical lobbyists. They are a pathetic bunch but rest assured they will be the first in line to get their share.
- Jake, Manchester

Vince and Andy
Once again illegal aliens will not receive one cent from this program you are grossly misinformed.

H.R. 3200 includes a provision that specifically says that there will be no federal funds spent to cover illegal immigrants:

H.R. 3200: Sec 246 — NO FEDERAL PAYMENT FOR UNDOCUMENTED ALIENS

“Nothing in this subtitle shall allow Federal payments for affordability credits on behalf of individuals who are not lawfully present in the United States.”

Also Andy there will be no denial of care and no one will be forced into hospice.

The system we have now denies care to increase profits for people from all walks of life from a fetus to the elderly. Seriously where do you people get this stuff it’s pure propaganda. Also the break just started I’m sure Hodes will be around.
- Jim, Raymond NH

Obamacare
Sends the grandparents off to the Hospice.
Denies Care to save Costs
Covers illegal aliens
and now it appears to pay for unions health insurance out of government funds. Anyone notice that Paul Hodes doesn't have a Town Hall which he shows up in person?????
- Andy, Milford

Dave King, Milton

Aaaaah, now I understand why you are so grossly misinformed. The Liberty Counsel (LC.org) is funded by the whack-a-loon wing of the Republican Party and of course big time insurance and pharmaceutical lobbyists.

There are so many falsehoods on that site I don’t even know where to begin.
Like I said you really should reconsider where you get your information from.
- Jim, Raymond NH

All anyone has to do is take a look at the governmenet run healthcare in Canada, England, Frnce or Switzerland. Do the research and then you can join the rest of us who are informed and opposed to the Obama socialized medicine scheme.
- Brian, Farmington

This is a really fantastic thing to read and listen to the people who think the Government is the answer to health care. The US Government has NEVER EVER solved any social program with any program, War on Drugs, War on poverty, Welfare, MEDICARE, Social Security etc. All have failed or on the brink of failure. The Liberals, both Dem and Republicans, think that throwing money at this problem and creating this HUGE monster will solve it all. Well I have news for all of you with the blinders on, you are DEAD Wrong. The cost will finally sink us, service will go down, corruption will be rampant. I have been stationed in many countries with One Payer systems( Government Run) and it is all the same. If we want real reform it has to be done with the Torte ( Legal) System first, this will never happen with all the Politicians being Lawyers. And for that matter you know this is a bad system since the politicians pushing this have EXEMPTED themselves and certain special interests from it. And Jim in Raymond you need a reality and a Math lesson. Your math is based solely in your opinion. They are not based in fact. And technically speaking ILLEGAL ALIENS ( undocumented workers for the PC crowd) are not supposed to get most of the Government provided services they do get now. It is pure and simple this is the beginning of the end of the US as we know it. Welcome to the Peoples Republic Of America.
- Vince Milano, Epping NH

Dave King, Milton

47 million is roughly 10% of the population. We spend 40% more than other nations on health care because our system is totally insane.

If we take out the middleman and use a single payer system we would save at least 30% now add 10% to cover the least fortunate in our society and we still save 20%.

If you need anymore help with your basic math skills please don’t hesitate to ask.

Also had you done a little research you would have found the following

H.R. 3200 includes a provision that specifically says that there will be no federal funds spent to cover illegal immigrants:

H.R. 3200: Sec 246 — NO FEDERAL PAYMENT FOR UNDOCUMENTED ALIENS

“Nothing in this subtitle shall allow Federal payments for affordability credits on behalf of individuals who are not lawfully present in the United States.”

In short you are grossly misinformed perhaps you should reconsider your sources of information.
- Jim, Raymond NH

For a long list of problems with the proposed congressional health care proposal (HR 3200) as well as a link to the entire bill, go to LC.org and search on "healthcare".
- Dave King, Milton, NH

So, let's hear about the wonderful Republican healthcare reform plan. There isn't one? Really? Oh, I see. The GOP only wants a victory over Obama and the American people be damned. Well, no surprises there.
- LJC, Manchester

Could someone kindly explain how adding 47 million new clients to health care insurance can reduce the cost? And the fairness of some 10 to 15 million illegal aliens having health care financed by citizens?
I also dispute all taxpayers being forced to pay for abortion on demand, and the trial lawyers reaping increased wealth from inflated malpractice cases.
- Dave King, Milton, NH

Sean, I couldn’t disagree with you more. In response to your article I would like to point out that the President has stated repeatedly that he will not raise taxes for anyone earning less than $250,000 a year. He also has stated emphatically that he will not sign a bill that increases the federal budget deficit- it must pay its own way. Yes, some of the items being discussed in Congress would increase the deficit, however, the President has gone on the record in public that he will not accept a health care bill that increases the deficit.

As for health care choices, we are very limited today. You can’t shop around the country for the best medical insurance, like you can for a home mortgage. The bill proposed by Congress will increase, not decrease your options for medical insurance.

If you currently have no health insurance, like 47 million other people in the country, then you’ll now have health insurance available to you. There are no facts that would indicate the quality of health care would be adversely affected by the plan. To the contrary, the quality of health care will likely improve as we move to a nation focused on the well being of people instead of corporate profits.

It’s not true that Americans would be forced out of their private health coverage. The President has said repeatedly that if you are satisfied with your current health insurance, you’ll be able to keep it. If the Government option is more affordable, and it turns out to be a better plan, people may choose to drop their private insurance in favor of a better public plan. The private insurance companies are fighting this option because they have said it would not be a level playing field. They couldn’t compete with the Government run plan.

Let’s not forget why they feel this way: Their corporate profits of up the 30% would make them less competitive- you pay for it. Their saturation advertising in all the media costs billions - you pay for it. The multi-million dollar salaries for the CEOs have to be covered- you pay for it. None of that money provides health care to you. It’s not your health they are concerned about. It’s their profit. We need to change the focus from profit to people.
- Gary Way, Bedford

A couple of points about 'employer based' health care, which dominates our current system.

First, providing health care for employees is an enormous burden on employers. Health care costs are one of the reasons that the automakers are in such deep trouble. The costs are rising faster than any other sector of the economy, and the administrative burden is onerous as well.

So why is the business community not 100% behind the public option? One would think that businesses - particularly small business - would be happy to have that burden lifted off their backs.

Perhaps it's because there is a sense of brotherhood with their friends in the insurance industry. But it's far more likely that the true reason is because businesses don't really pay for your insurance- at least not with their own money. (The fact that you think they do is one of the most remarkable public relations coups in recent history).

Businesses pay for your insurance out of the money they would normally pay YOU in raises, costs of living allowances, bonuses, etc.. Ever wonder why, when the economy has seen significant growth over the last 20 years, and wages at the upper income levels have risen dramatically, that middle class wages have been stagnating? Take a guess.

You've been hoodwinked, folks. The reason you're not making 20% more than you are now, and keeping up with inflation (in other words, what you actually should be making) is that business is using that money to pay your health insurance costs.

The funny thing is that somehow they've made you believe that they are doing you a favor.
- Dave, Sandwich

The issue of health care is not a debate as it is claimed. It will be taken over count on it. We will then be told the will of the people is complete.

You will notice our leaders are seeking everything they can to take control and nothing to ease the burden from our doctors or private hospitals. If you want to stay a free nation teach your children that freedom is not government dependence. Of course you will be fighting everything they are learning in school today, but at least at home you can foster honest debate. If your son or daughter starts calling you names you can safely assume they learned it from the far left in control of their education.
- Deb, Derry

...."The politicians ought to listen to the people for a change".

That is correct.

And you are a politician. So why aren't you listening to the people Sean Mahoney?

You have lost each (and every) political election in which you have run. That was the people speaking and means that they are not believing in what you have to say.

You also do not allow reader comments and feedback in your own publication, BusinessNH magazine which is a clear indication of what you as publisher and politician think of what the people have to say. This is probably why you can only hold a politically appointed position (a political favor).

The people can read and watch the media for the same polls and information reported in your column -- what do you think we're illiterate and not capable of our own consideration?

In your own words..."think about that"!
- Bob, Portsmouth

Love it. As always, government either creates the problem or makes a small problem huge (always in the best interest of the people of course) and then wants to pretend like they are the answer to the problem they created and paints their targets as the evil doers. Brilliant!
Sheep to the slaughter. Our government runs schools prepared us well.
- Deirdre, Goffstown

I know that actual facts are very difficult for Republicans to grasp however I feel I must point a few out.

1 Over 73% of Americans favor a public option.

2 We spend more than any other industrialized nation on health care and have poorer outcomes.

3 we rank 26th among industrialized nations in the health care category

4 We already have a bureaucracy between you and your doctor. Claims that should be paid and treatment that is needed and should be covered are denied constantly.

5 The health care bill would actually help small businesses provide health care to their employees at a much lower rate.

6 We already did away with “frivolous law suits” under Bush and the cost of health care went UP not down.

7 The wealthy in this country are still paying far less in taxes than they did under Reagan and again far less on a percentage basis than I do in payroll taxes.

8 Lower taxes on the wealthy does not create jobs as we have learned over the last 8 years taxes were constantly lowered and layoffs were constantly on the rise.

9 Over 50% of all bankruptcies filed are over medical bills and half of those are from people that have health insurance.

There’s much, much more but I’ll stop there

It’s very odd that so many claims you guys make the opposite is frequently the outcome.

Lowering costs on health care would pump billions into the economy from the bottom up and that my friends is what creates jobs because it creates demand for goods and services.

Our current health care system is the laughing stalk of the industrialized world. If you’re loaded it’s the best care in the world but if you’re the average “Joe” it often leads to financial ruin.
- Jim, Raymond NH

Ever walk into one of the new additions on so many hospitals in southern NH lately and wonder if you were in a mansion? The extreme excess in building and features in these health care settings cant be helping the bottom line. Birthing suites with slate and tile bathrooms, jacuzzi tubs...looking more like $200 a night hotel room than a medical setting. Yea, these things are nice, but are they necessary in a time when "cost" is such an issue.
put the priorities in order here
- John, Manchester

"Many of the "wealthy" individuals on whose wallets the Democrats set their sights are actually small business owners and entrepreneurs."

Prove it. What percentage of 'small business owners' earn profits over $500,000?

Well, I'm sure you won't, so I'll tell you myself: about 2-3%. (Learn to use Google and you'll find it yourself.) So 97-98% of small business owners won't see any changes at all.

If you want to argue over whether or not that is fair, then do so. But don't perpetuate the misinformation that it is the poor small business owner who is going to be pushed under by these reforms. Besides, even under the formula on the table, those with profits of $500,000 will still bring home $350,000 per year.

Now, a second question: how many *more* small business people and entrepreneurs will we have if a public option is available? When people won't be locked into their jobs because they fear what will happen when they lose their health insurance, that will be good for America.
- JMA, Epping

It's interesting that the only thing the Republicans and their supporters can do is criticize the healthcare reform ideas from the Democrats and President. Where are the Republican ideas? Do they just want to keep things the way they are? Are they OK that if you have a pre-existing condition that you can't get health insurance? Are they OK that if you lose your job and can't afford private insurance that you and your family are on your own? Are they OK with the fact that the majority of people who are losing their homes due to foreclosure are people who have a serious medical prolem like cancer and are bankrupt because of the exhorbitant cost...many of them even have health insurance (until the insurance company decides to cut them off). Are they OK with the fact that all of us already pay for the millions of people who have no health insurance...with higher premiums and taxes? Never mind the excessively long waiting time in emergency rooms because that's where people with no insurance end up. I don't agree with everything that is being proposed either but something needs to be done. it's time for the Republicans to start being part of the solution. It's time to start caring about the American people.
- JoAnn, Manchester

Great op-ed, Mr. Mahoney. Right on.
- Ed Holdgate, Sandown, NH

Now the supporters of this government takeover are rolling out a new boogey man, the evil insurance company. Be afraid stupid voters, be afraid. These business that pay taxes and employ people are making a profit, and ultimately profit is still a dirty word to the left.

Okay, in large part many insurance companies are part of the problem, and not becasue they exist to make a profit for thier owners either. Too many times they deny covered services for a variety of reasons, however, its not always the insurance company. The doctor/hospital also misbill with disturbing frequency. Often when the member changes insurances the biller sends the claim to the old company anyway even tho the insured has presented thier new information. Other times the insured does not update the doctor with thier new info.

I am in complete agreement that no one should lose thier home or face bankrupcy due to medical bills. If the government wants to creat a safety net option, I could support that however poorly run and exorbitantly expensive we know it will be. Insurance is a business, like any other, and exists in part to cover a wide variety of medical conditions. Before paying out claims it is reasonable to ensure that the services offered are needed and covered by contract. It is not unreasonable to not covered services that have little demonstrated value and these are usually spelled out in the contract as not covered.

There is much that could be done with out the "public option" that is ultimately a take over of our insurance by the government. The ban on interstate insurance sales could be lifted, thus providing real competition, not the faux competition the democrats say they want. A reduction of mandates for stuff that is not medically necissary, like infertility treatment. unlimited chiropratic, acupuncture, Viagra etc. would help reduce premiums. If folks want the extras they can/should be offered as riders that you pay extra for. There is a problem with paying for health care today, but it should be clear to anyone who pays attention that this frankenstein creation of the Pelosi - Reid cabal is not designed to solve the problem, it is designed to take over our health care. It would be nice if the left was honest enough to say so, we could have an honest debate, but they aren't so they'll continue to creat boogey men.
- jeff, goffstown

They couldn't even handle Cash for Clunkers without a mess of bureaucratic ball-dropping, lack of planning entirely, lack of foresight, websites down, recipients confused, calls unanswered, websites down...

...Imagine what they'll do when you need a decision right now for something to save your life!
- Mike R., Bedford