Congress can do better on health care
When making critical health-care decisions for my family, especially for my son who has Type 1 Diabetes, I do my homework. I research, I speak with experts, I weigh our budgetary constraints, I listen closely to my son, and together we commit to the course of action that will best serve his well-being.
I expect the same level of care from my representatives when they are deliberating health-care legislation. Americans deserve nothing less than a thoughtful and collaborative process from our Senate. A coherent, effective, and just health care bill requires committee hearings, bipartisan collaboration, and evaluation by the Congressional Budget Office.
The health of our citizens is one of our nation’s most precious assets and our health care system is an essential component of our civic infrastructure. We deserve far better than political posturing, a rushed vote-a-rama with no CBO input, and a final bill reconciled behind closed doors.
I still believe that our Congress is capable of the ingenuity and compassion necessary to address the weaknesses in our nation’s health care system. I hope it is also willing to do so.
NANCY MCCORD, ATLANTA
Gov’t should make health care tax-deductible
If our government truly wants to improve health care for citizens and help control the costs, there are two easy actions that could be taken. First, make all health care costs tax-deductible, including medical, dental and optical expenses, rather than the current policy of the costs having to be a minimum portion of one’s income before being deductible.
Second, make health insurance premiums be tax-deductible for individuals who purchase their health insurance directly rather than being provided by an employer. If the premiums are deductible, there would be some incentive to purchase better and more-comprehensive plans.
These should not be an “an either-or” option, but both available.
MIKE DEAL, ALPHARETTA
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