by Susan E. Carr

Created on: January 22, 2011   Last Updated: March 13, 2011

The Obama health care plan passed in Congress in 2010 appears to be a step in the right direction.  Controversey surrounds this issue and it may well be that there are misunderstandings around the concept and/or that it is subject to at least some misinformation.  When deciding on this issue, it is important to make an assessment based on your own research with some of the following questions in mind.

1.  What do other countries do around the world when it comes to health care?"

2.  Are the systems in other countries working and benefiting the citizens?

3. If I have private insurance how does it stack up to what is offered  for "free" or for a minimal cost to the citizens in other countries?

4.  Is if fair that my fellow Americans are going without adequate care because they can't afford it -  even if I can?

5.  Is socialism really the term I should use when referring to universal health care  or is this a term designed to inspire me with fear?

6.  If other "free" nations include health care for their citizens, is there is a reason for me to feel that I am threatened in someway if it is accepted?  Do I feel that democracy is at threat?

7.  Are special interest groups benefiting from scaring me away from the concept of health care?

These are just a few of the questions that are appropriate to ask and to research on this issue. Canadians as an example, have access to health care universally .  No one is turned away from any facility because they cannot afford to pay.  This system is not perfect but it does provide the necessary needs of those who require it.  It definitely costs money. From time to time, other forms of health care have been discussed in Canada and options have been suggested.  Historically though, any suggestion of change has consistently been met with significant backlash from Canadians who remain steadfast in their convictions that health care should remain as it is.   

Whenever Canadians are polled regarding the cost of health care and whether or not it will be sustainable with escalating costs, they will unilaterally opt in favor of paying more personally rather than allowing the system to be privatized in any way.  Private clinics do exist.  Patients can pay to have tests, exams, and diagnostics such as MRIs done more expediently on a self-pay basis.  However, private clinics are continually monitored and audited to ensure that they remain within allowable boundaries when treating and charging patients.   

A number of other countries do offer health care, many have proven themselves to be exceptional.  A quick look at some of these systems and how they operate may well point to the conclusion that Obamacare is a step in the right direction.

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