These stories come from the real people who live with a broken health care system. Some have health insurance and some do not. Many of these stories suggest potential solutions* that lead to quality, affordable health care we can count on. One thing we all agree on is that the we cannot trust the insurance industry to fix themselves. To learn more about what Health Care for America Now stands for read our Statement of Common Purpose.
We wanted to give you a chance to speak for yourself, in your own voice, about the need for Health Care for America Now. Do you have something to say? Tell us your story.
for
Michelle
Fallon, NV
I'm a self-employed person in rural NV. 8 years ago I had a choice of 2 insurance companies. But the one I chose was bought out by Blue Cross a couple years back, which is now the ONLY choice for self-employed people in rural counties in NV. From $100 a month in 2000 my premium has gone up to $240 a month today. That's for a policy with a $2,000 deductible. The first 2 doctor visits a YEAR I pay a $35 co-pay. Any additional visits in a year, I pay the ENTIRE amount. And Blue Cross decides whether or not the visit and any lab fees, x-rays, etc. count towards the deductible. Surprise surprise, I can spend a FORTUNE on health care and never reach the deductible!
All the talk of "lowering" premiums by paying billions to insurance companies in subsidies nmakes me sick. (no pun intended!) I wouldn't mind the $240 amonth if I got anything in return for it. ANY plan by Congress has GOT to address coverage!
Right now I am waiting to be old enough for Medicare to afford the surgery my doctor says I need, as I know with my current policy it will cost more than I can afford.
*Health Care for America Now is not responsible for the content of these stories. These stories are submitted by individuals in the online audience and have been edited in some cases. Health Care For America Now does not endorse any of the solutions or policy positions suggested in the content of these stories. Health Care for America Now is a coalition of organizations that agree to the Statement of Common Purpose.
See our coalition partner list.
Read the Statement of Common Purpose.
