On Tuesday, September 18, 2018, at their regular meeting, the Carroll County Democratic Central Committee weighed in on the issue of Medicare for All. The Affordable Care Act helped many Americans get health insurance. However, it did not resolve the problem of ensuring that everyone needing medical treatment would receive the care they needed. Due to Republicans’ attacks on the ACA, and the fact that 18 Republicans Governors refused to expand Medicaid under the ACA, the Central Committee felt that our Country needs a complete overhaul of our health care system.
The members brought up complaints they have heard expressed by their neighbors who are Democrats, Republicans, Independents, and non-voters. Expensive co-pays and deductibles were keeping some from getting health care. Others objected to “someone sitting behind a desk, who has no idea who I am, refusing my doctor’s request for an MRI. Some likened high insurance cost to a tax, while others complained of high prescription drug cost.
What they liked about Senate Bill 1804 and House Bill 676 is that both cover anything medically necessary.
This includes dental care, eye care, hearing aids, and mental health. They especially liked the provision covering nursing home care, which a lot of their friends were concerned about.
They did not overlook the cost and financing for Enhanced Medicare for All. Even a conservative think tank opposed to Medicare for All came to the conclusion that it would save the Government money. Sources for funding include a slight tax on stock and bond sales; a modest tax on unearned income (not something hedge fund operators will like); and an increase in the personal income tax on the top 5% of income earners. Savings come from vastly reduced paper work; negotiated drug prices; elimination of health insurance profits and advertising cost.
Unique about the resolution they adopted by a unanimous vote is that they specifically request Senators Durbin and Duckworth to co-sponsor SB 1804 and for Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (17th District) to co-sponsor HB 676.