Changing "Obama-Care" to "Trump-Don't Care"...so sad, so sad
6
Assumptions are the basis of all these reviews, I bet the assumptions are much different than those I would consider to be reasonable. And for those that want popular corrections to the ACA, I want effective ones. Many times popular changes don't work, like say single payer.
3
To solve problems with the ACA, why not go with fixes that voters preferred by a large margin and thus received a mandate in the election?
https://www.hillaryclinton.com/issues/health-care/
https://www.hillaryclinton.com/issues/health-care/
1
Because most people are not competent to select solutions. Sort of like how you don't allow design of rockets be what is popular, but rather what engineers say will work. And anything Hillary proposes or proposed is suspect. She lost!!! And Bernie lost to her!!
2
The liberals should start being honest about Obamacare, instead of relying on fake narratives. It is they who consufe their base into believing this is a good law.
Why not admit, publicly and openly, that about 80% of all Obamacare customers really get Medicaid, i.e. insurance for free. With only 20% paying customers, the plan a failure by definition. And then continue being honest and say openly that these people who can't afford such insurance, should be given one for free, paid for by the people who work for theirs.
It's one thing to give welfare to the needy with plans to give them a chance to stop being needy. But to continue giving free stuff for life does not make sense; only bureaucrats and liberals like this approach.
Why not admit, publicly and openly, that about 80% of all Obamacare customers really get Medicaid, i.e. insurance for free. With only 20% paying customers, the plan a failure by definition. And then continue being honest and say openly that these people who can't afford such insurance, should be given one for free, paid for by the people who work for theirs.
It's one thing to give welfare to the needy with plans to give them a chance to stop being needy. But to continue giving free stuff for life does not make sense; only bureaucrats and liberals like this approach.
3
I can't understand why the republicans will not accept the the congressional budget office is generally right in it assements.
It was right with Obama care and is right now.
I guess they still want to live in their fantasy world like the new president who is taking credit for things he had no impact on and ignoring things he did. In the words of the new president, sad. :(
It was right with Obama care and is right now.
I guess they still want to live in their fantasy world like the new president who is taking credit for things he had no impact on and ignoring things he did. In the words of the new president, sad. :(
3
Perhaps because they made all sorts of assumptions that the ACA was wonderful. I don't trust their assumptions.
5
Kind of the obverse of Anatole France's famous statement "The law, in its majestic equality, forbids the rich as well as the poor to sleep under bridges, to beg in the streets, and to steal bread."
Republican's "replacement" will allow both the rich and the poor to pay thousands of dollars per month for health insurance.
Republican's "replacement" will allow both the rich and the poor to pay thousands of dollars per month for health insurance.
3
Hell is were :
- Germans make you cuisine
- Italians organizes your things
- Brits make you love
- Americans run healthcare
- Germans make you cuisine
- Italians organizes your things
- Brits make you love
- Americans run healthcare
1
It sounds like the Republicans had better pull a magic rabbit out of the hat. I think they are beginning to realize, maybe, that they have messed up big time.
I can only hope.
I can only hope.
4
The rising costs of health care before the ACA was so high for so long that health care costs amounted to 18% of the GDP, money that represented the use of wealth which removed that capital from endeavors that create mostly new wealth. The only way that that system could produce adequate income for insurers was with group coverage with huge institutions, otherwise the premium payers would have been high risk at needing a lot of care which leads to markets driving insurers out of the market. Everyone in single payer system contributes to and receives care so the risks are well able to be established and costs can be well managed. Amongst the most developed nations on Earth, only the U.S. avoids the single payer system and the proportion of the GDP devoted to health care is twice as high. Economically, it makes a lot of sense to consider health care as a necessity of life that must be delivered as needed and the means of funding affordably it should be of less importance.
1
The ACA was forced through, and even the Dems didn't want to vote for it. It was the hardest bill to pass in Obama's presidency.
Okay, let's get past the fact that it's a far-reaching law with many flaws (starting with the number of people 'exempt,' like Congress and the White House, a number of unions, etc.). Regardless, too many changes have been made to laws and regulations through its implementation to repeal it! Thousands of industries are affected, as are the day to day operations of hospitals, doctor offices, etc.
The biggest problem with the ACA is all the middle men it created - far too many make money off this law, and they are NOT providers of care. They are the software companies that are mandated via electronic medical records. They are the consultants or regulatory departments that almost everyone needs to understand what they are required to do... or be fined.
Many rant about the insurance companies, I get that; employers no longer cover as much (Cadillac tax) and must pay the government $65 per person they offer insurance to; the desire was to force employers out of covering employees to push up enrollment in the exchanges - a move towards what was designed to become 'universal' care. Result - those with insurance pay more now than ever, private offices are shutting down and being taken over by integrated delivery networks and healthcare systems, and everyone is getting a piece of every dollar you spend, whether they provide care or not.
Okay, let's get past the fact that it's a far-reaching law with many flaws (starting with the number of people 'exempt,' like Congress and the White House, a number of unions, etc.). Regardless, too many changes have been made to laws and regulations through its implementation to repeal it! Thousands of industries are affected, as are the day to day operations of hospitals, doctor offices, etc.
The biggest problem with the ACA is all the middle men it created - far too many make money off this law, and they are NOT providers of care. They are the software companies that are mandated via electronic medical records. They are the consultants or regulatory departments that almost everyone needs to understand what they are required to do... or be fined.
Many rant about the insurance companies, I get that; employers no longer cover as much (Cadillac tax) and must pay the government $65 per person they offer insurance to; the desire was to force employers out of covering employees to push up enrollment in the exchanges - a move towards what was designed to become 'universal' care. Result - those with insurance pay more now than ever, private offices are shutting down and being taken over by integrated delivery networks and healthcare systems, and everyone is getting a piece of every dollar you spend, whether they provide care or not.
3
Isn't that sweet? Susan Collins showed "the UNEASE" of "some in her party" that the repeal would cause an insurance DEATH SPIRAL.
Is that the same "death spiral" that republicans were ominously threatening as a result of public antipathy toward Obamacare?
People, isn't it reassuring to know that at least some of the GOP members of Congress have concern for the average American?
Is that the same "death spiral" that republicans were ominously threatening as a result of public antipathy toward Obamacare?
People, isn't it reassuring to know that at least some of the GOP members of Congress have concern for the average American?
4
Apparently, in the GOP universe, God's elect will have health insurance and everyone else is doomed anyway, so why bother. Don't these people have ANY relatives who are among the working poor?
4
I don't understand how the Republicans have been voting to repeal the ACA, without simultaneously having a viable alternative ready to offer. As Trump recently said, "All talk, no action." Why doesn't Congress simply offer the American people the same insurance program that they receive? From what I understand, it's a great deal. I guess they don't consider their constituents as worthy as themselves.
2
I would be fine with that as long as it is a choice and those that choose it pay the total cost of such. I bet it would be more expensive than affordable. Same with say Medicare for all, good option, but can you afford it at full costs.
80% of those getting insurance,since Obamacare got Medicaid,which is 100% welfare.Can this country really afford this?Do all these people really deserve or need full coverage,paid for by a govt in bankruptcy?I haven't had health care insurance for over 35 years and still going strong.We should be encouraging healthy lifestyles,which would make people happier and save a lot of money.Instead,we get this massive incentive to use more health care resources and not do anything to encourage the need for LESS health care.
2
It is less expensive to provide health care upfront, preventative health care, than it is to let people wait until they have to get rushed to the emergency room. I would prefer that you asked about why congress has free health care and fat pensions/perks in this incredibly wealthy "bankrupt" nation.
@jrj90620 - The welfare people have it the best of all, especially under Obama. They don't have to work for anything, but are given everything - luxury high-rise housing, food, utilities, cell phones, internet, cable tv, chauffeured transportation, the best of health care (equal to what the Congress receives), etc.
2
You are right. Most of these are welfare cases who get about $250 per month in taxpayer subsidies for their health insurance. If the subsidy ends, they drop out for lack of money.
1
Republicans, in their constant quest to devise slogans that confuse their base into thinking they are getting something when it is actually only the shaft, have started throwing around "universal access." This is a term that sounds a lot like "universal health coverage" but is actually nothing of the sort. It's kind of like setting a huge feast in front of someone who has no arms.
7
Agreed. We already have universal "access" for those with money. What people want is universal "care."
2
I think the government should get out of the process completely. No individual mandate and laws created by insurance companies or health professionals. I also have misgivings about the title of this article. Yes, people will lose their current insurance--but what about the money taken from others to pay for it? Shouldn't those people have their taxes decreased? I think wealth redistribution--and this is that--should stop. The government should not be involved.
6
Exactly correct,but in this day of govt worship,we are in the minority.
You are extremely incorrect. Please see my comment to the OP.
Tighten up your tedious boilerplate nonsense. "Day of government worship? Get a grip.
1
The reason for the ACA is its first letter 'A', AFFORDABLE! What is there to understand that private insurances are 'UNAFFORDABLE' and that is the reason why so many Americans don't have health insurance and our longevity is shorter than a lot of nations in this world even though we claimed to have the best medical facilities in the world. This is true of any goods that we buy. If it is not affordable, we don't buy and the maker of that industry will die out in time. Meantime, the people will be impoverished. That is a formula for a third world country and eventually fall victim to their own creations. It is the stuff revolutions are made of.
3
How about giving us the same health insurance that Congress has?
32
They're insured under the ACA, which is one of the reasons the Republicans are so hot to get rid of it. I'm sure they want to put something better in its place for themselves.
1
No, Congress is NOT insured under the ACA. They are insured under the Federal Employees Health Benefits Plan.
6
Last night Jimmie Kimmel showed one of his informal interviews with random pedestrians in Hollywood. He asked them a simple question. "Which would you prefer Obamacare of the Affordable Care Act?" No one who answered knew they were one and the same thing. A number liked Obamacare better because it had Obama in the name, but a number wouldn't chose it for that same reason. One person chose the Affordable Care Act because it "was more affordable".
What this showed was people's ignorance about the ACA and it was humorous, but not very...
The ACA never was never intended to be about Obama, but about getting insurance to millions of the uninsured and reducing the cost to hospitals of treating the uninsured.
The etymological origins of Obamacare lie within Republican messaging and was used as a pejorative, however Obama later adopted the use of it. Too bad he did not realize, or no one advised him, that would be a mistake.
By branding it with the name of its creator it became a target for the Republicans since its inception. I am wishing the Obama and federal government had done a better job at naming the program (maybe something like Fair Health) promoting and explaining the ACA to the public, maybe hiring a professional PR team to do so. The program was/and is so important to so many. It might have been worth the effort. Maybe the Trump supporters would have understood it better and not been so against it.
What this showed was people's ignorance about the ACA and it was humorous, but not very...
The ACA never was never intended to be about Obama, but about getting insurance to millions of the uninsured and reducing the cost to hospitals of treating the uninsured.
The etymological origins of Obamacare lie within Republican messaging and was used as a pejorative, however Obama later adopted the use of it. Too bad he did not realize, or no one advised him, that would be a mistake.
By branding it with the name of its creator it became a target for the Republicans since its inception. I am wishing the Obama and federal government had done a better job at naming the program (maybe something like Fair Health) promoting and explaining the ACA to the public, maybe hiring a professional PR team to do so. The program was/and is so important to so many. It might have been worth the effort. Maybe the Trump supporters would have understood it better and not been so against it.
14
Yes, "affordable" is either Orwellian or wishful thinking.
4
this ignorance is why we will have a (shudder) "President Trump." Whom I shall hereafter refer to as POTUS or "that man in the white house." Because those two words should just never have come together.
4
Why can't those who would loose their health-care insurance if Obamacare is revealed just buy a policy with their own money instead of relying on OPM? (re OPM: sounds like opium, is equally addicting, stands for Other People's Money--forcibly extorted.)
4
I'm sure you are aware that many people can't afford insurance, especially if they have pre-existing conditions.
If you think people without insurance haven't for decades been treated with OPM, you haven't heard much about the rising cost of health care. Surely you don't believe that providers don't pass along their unpaid bills to the rest of us.
One way or another, we pay. With a centralized plan underwritten in part by the government, there are at least ways to negotiate and control costs. The escalating costs of health care have been a drag on the economy that we can no longer afford.
If you think people without insurance haven't for decades been treated with OPM, you haven't heard much about the rising cost of health care. Surely you don't believe that providers don't pass along their unpaid bills to the rest of us.
One way or another, we pay. With a centralized plan underwritten in part by the government, there are at least ways to negotiate and control costs. The escalating costs of health care have been a drag on the economy that we can no longer afford.
11
Too much insurance drives up demand and gives suppliers the ability to overcharge.We need healthier Americans using LESS health care.Way too much health care being used in this country.Maybe a single payer,rationing system would encourage Americans to take better care of themselves,knowing they couldn't get quick care.
1
"Too much insurance drives up demand" oh absolutely. That is why people love to crash their cars more than ever. And burn down their houses.
4
It's clear to me that Washington has a drug problem. The drug of choice for House Republicans is tri-ta-killen-act. Just one dose, and you can't think of anything else. Representatives Ryan and McConnell have been taking 500mg. every day for years.
5
What am I missing...the Republicans have been bashing ACA for 6 years and they still don't have a viable alternative?!?!
19
Since the Affordable Care Act was first introduced to Congress in 2009 I would say Republicans have been bashing it for 7 years. And they've had the entire history of time to come up with something better, not just the past seven years
5
Certainly we cannot trust the individual states to replace it!
8
There are two points I want to share. First, many people focus on whether they are subsidizing others or not. People need to realize...there are many families using Obamacare that pay the FULL price and do not receive subsidies. Additionally, just because someone receives a subsidy, doesn't mean they don't work hard. There are many people who simply do not earn as much as others, even though they work two jobs, 70 hours a week.
My second point is that insurance premiums have been increasing every year for a number of years and the primary reason is that health care in the United States is extremely expensive. Obamacare is not the central problem, rather out-of-control healthcare costs. These costs are not sustainable for our families or for our country. Instead of politicizing healthcare, our elected officials need to seek a real solution that has healthcare cost reduction in the center. Further, we all need to keep our minds open about whether or not there is government involvement. Looking at current models worldwide, it appears that healthcare costs are lower when private companies are not involved. We should be closely considering why this is the case.
My second point is that insurance premiums have been increasing every year for a number of years and the primary reason is that health care in the United States is extremely expensive. Obamacare is not the central problem, rather out-of-control healthcare costs. These costs are not sustainable for our families or for our country. Instead of politicizing healthcare, our elected officials need to seek a real solution that has healthcare cost reduction in the center. Further, we all need to keep our minds open about whether or not there is government involvement. Looking at current models worldwide, it appears that healthcare costs are lower when private companies are not involved. We should be closely considering why this is the case.
21
"it appears that healthcare costs are lower when private companies are not involved. We should be closely considering why this is the case."
It doesn't take much consideration: it's because of private companies needing and being motivated by PROFIT. More and more of it every year.
It doesn't take much consideration: it's because of private companies needing and being motivated by PROFIT. More and more of it every year.
5
What civilized, developed nation has put as much effort into methodically, deliberately,and with great strategy and care... into Hurting and Weakening many millions of their own People, even unto dire sickness and death? The US and the GOTP alone holds this pathetic distinction.
As for all those who point out the faults of the ACA: it is not what the Democrats wanted, but what the GOP - and insurance industry - insisted it be. What the Left wanted was Single Payer, but the Greed Faction insisted at feeding at the table. For those states that worked in good faith to do their best to implement it well, it's gone quite well. For those that only half-heartedly rolled it out, with grudging cooperation from the insurance carriers, it's not done as well by the People. It's essential to note that Success or Failure has depended far less on the ACA, and far more on state and local implementation. The ACA is what it is allowed to be. This is a key fact that is glossed over by almost everyone.
It's replacement on the Right is, and has always been, NOTHING. The sooner everyone sees that the GOTP has never wanted to subsidize health insurance for the Common Man, and that the best healthcare for all Americans is any that Congress or the States don't have to pay for... the better off we will be. Stop pretending the Right has a replacement in mind. They don't.
It's current coverage - or nothing. Period.
As for all those who point out the faults of the ACA: it is not what the Democrats wanted, but what the GOP - and insurance industry - insisted it be. What the Left wanted was Single Payer, but the Greed Faction insisted at feeding at the table. For those states that worked in good faith to do their best to implement it well, it's gone quite well. For those that only half-heartedly rolled it out, with grudging cooperation from the insurance carriers, it's not done as well by the People. It's essential to note that Success or Failure has depended far less on the ACA, and far more on state and local implementation. The ACA is what it is allowed to be. This is a key fact that is glossed over by almost everyone.
It's replacement on the Right is, and has always been, NOTHING. The sooner everyone sees that the GOTP has never wanted to subsidize health insurance for the Common Man, and that the best healthcare for all Americans is any that Congress or the States don't have to pay for... the better off we will be. Stop pretending the Right has a replacement in mind. They don't.
It's current coverage - or nothing. Period.
19
Republicans in Senate and House: Simply declare that Obamacare is now officially renamed Trumpcare. Then let the experts improve it. Isn't your hatred for President Obama what it's all about?
12
Why do Republicans have to repeal Obamacare? Fix what's broke and then call it something else. Repeal and replace sounds like a disaster waiting to happen.
9
Republicans don't want to repeal health care. They just want to repeal the tax that wealthy Republicans pay to subsidies the premiums so that poor people can afford medical coverage for themselves and their families.
9
Before you Liberals get to whining too loudly......
Let's not forget that the majority of the 18-20 million didn't really want Obamacare but were forced to get it just to keep their job!
Let's not forget that the majority of the 18-20 million didn't really want Obamacare but were forced to get it just to keep their job!
Yes, damn Liberals, always wanting people to be able to access affordable healthcare. Truly diabolical.
9
BangStick, where are the data for that assertion? Overall opinion data seem to be indicating reasonable satisfaction with the ACA now.
7
The ACA (Romneycare) is what the GOP would approve, unlike the single-payer option advanced by liberals. It preserves the right of insurance companies and health care providers to continue to raise costs and pay extravagant salaries to executives.
If your employer was forced to help to provide you with insurance, I'm sure sorry for you. Just remember that it's the market incentives in the ACA that create the cost problems, and I hope you never have to find out what happens when you don't have insurance.
If your employer was forced to help to provide you with insurance, I'm sure sorry for you. Just remember that it's the market incentives in the ACA that create the cost problems, and I hope you never have to find out what happens when you don't have insurance.
3
I can't wait to see all those insurance industry giants clamoring to capture the marketplace in states like Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, which have more cattle, potatoes and cow dung than people. Yeah, they sure are going to benefit from all that competition. Please, Westy's , let us city slickers know how drastically your premiums and deductibles and co-pays are lowered, and your benefits are greatly increased. Just list those changes right here in a couple months. We await with bated breath.
DD
Manhattan
DD
Manhattan
13
What does one call "repeal and replace" when 6 years on there is no replace plan that voters can assess? Set this ruse? deception? three0card monty? against one of Obama's supposed egregious "lies," namely, to say people could keep their insurance if they were happy with it when he meant --and everyone knew this is what the ACA said -- that if your insurance kept being offered and if it met minimal standards to deserve the name insurance, you could keep it. New slogan?: Repeal = death. Republicans lie [about having a viable plan]; ten thousand die.
9
The only "access" to be had in the GOP helth insurance plans will be the access doctors, hospitals, and bill collectors will have to your social security check, life savings, and house title.
14
Note to Democrats: If you had only not called it Obamacare you might have had a chance at this. You believed since he was such a "popular" President is was ok and now it backfired.
Backwards! The Republicans called it Obamacare so they could tie his political future to the law they intended to repeal.
7
Sheer ignorance speaking. It was not the Democrats who called it Obamacare. The Republicans put that name on it to denigrate it. It is and always has been the Affordable Care Act.
23
Actually, it was the Republicans who labeled it that as a sneer at President Obama.
14
Just stop it.
That many people weren't uninsured about ACA went into effect. And the numbers add up to prove it.
So...just stop it.
That many people weren't uninsured about ACA went into effect. And the numbers add up to prove it.
So...just stop it.
4
Read the article and look at the graph. Get help if you need it.
3
Health Insurance does not equal health care. People were not dying in the streets before the ACA and they will not be after the ACA. Take a deep breath, people.
3
But they will be dying younger and more frequently. whether at home or the emergency room.
which you will have to pay for.
which you will have to pay for.
13
Health outcomes have improved since the passage of the ACA. People previously couldn't afford prevention and entered treatment with advanced illness, often via the (very expensive) emergency room.
You might also be interested to know that the cost of treating uninsured people doesn't vanish like magic. Hint: It doesn't come out of the paychecks of hospital executives.
Those costs were spiraling out of control before the ACA, and they were passed along to all of us. Without something like the ACA we have no negotiating power to hold them in check.
You might also be interested to know that the cost of treating uninsured people doesn't vanish like magic. Hint: It doesn't come out of the paychecks of hospital executives.
Those costs were spiraling out of control before the ACA, and they were passed along to all of us. Without something like the ACA we have no negotiating power to hold them in check.
5
Actually people DO die in the streets, as did one middle-aged woman who had recently been evicted from her apartment last week. But more important are the people who've been dying at home or in hospitals where they were FINALLY admitted to ERs because they could not afford chemotherapy, or even basic medical care (not provided in ERs) to control their diabetes or high-blood pressure.
Your article's first sentence reads, in part, '... insurance premiums would shoot upward...". Do you mean more than they already have under Obamacare?
2
Yes.
5
35% last year. An amazing fail of record proportions.
Thank the insurance companies that have been pulling out of the system, some in anticipation that the ACA would be repealed. Of course they can still afford to reward their executives handsomely.
It's the market propping elements of the ACA (such as the unpopular penalties for not buying insurance) that have created the problems. Single-payer was promoted by the Democrats, but the GOP won't abandon the gravy train provided by the insurance lobby.
It's the market propping elements of the ACA (such as the unpopular penalties for not buying insurance) that have created the problems. Single-payer was promoted by the Democrats, but the GOP won't abandon the gravy train provided by the insurance lobby.
4
Nothing says they cannot go buy their own insurance.
1
Except when no insurance provider exists in their market...
9
I'm sure they would if they could afford it.
6
Right! If you are rich, you can buy medical care. That's the replace part of the Republican "Repeal and Replace" plan for Obama care. Not rich? God has a plan for you, too. Angels and everything!
6
The only way out has to be bi-partisan
2
Beware "High Risk Pools" They've been tried before and were a total catastrophe for those in need.
14
Putin has got to be enjoying this torturous exchange. The GOP seem rather deranged about how to do what Obama did without owning it. Division seems to be Trump's card for carrying this off. He's gonna blame it on the GOP and declare himself a new party!
3
Single payer is the answer.
The free ride is over.
The free ride is over.
13
Doesn't single payer mean government provided? Doesn't that mean the government must take money from citizens and redistribute it to people who couldn't have afford it otherwise. Doesn't this create the free ride you say is over?
1
I predict we won't be hearing much from Crossing Overhead.
Yep.. make that 18 Million + 1. That will be me.
4
The cruel irony is that these many of these sociopaths consider themselves "christians"
14
What irony. The Republicans are proving themselves wrong about what a 'terrible mistake' ACA was. They will eventually prove themselves wrong about a great deal more.
9
November of 2013, my brother blew a fistula between his bowel and bladder after suffering untreated diverticulitis for 12 years. No one would insure his pre-existing condition until he presented himself at the emergency room and a surgeon took pity on him.
See, the doc could have just given bro antibiotics and let his systems continue to flow together, not REALLY life threatening. But this human could see a perfectly healthy man expecting for his distressing condition, and removed a large portion of bro's bowel leaving him bankrupt and managing a colostomy.
He would still have that colostomy if not for Obamacare. Say it loud, it works and I'm PROUD!
See, the doc could have just given bro antibiotics and let his systems continue to flow together, not REALLY life threatening. But this human could see a perfectly healthy man expecting for his distressing condition, and removed a large portion of bro's bowel leaving him bankrupt and managing a colostomy.
He would still have that colostomy if not for Obamacare. Say it loud, it works and I'm PROUD!
6
The Republicans should repeal the entire ACA and replace it with one that is paid for completely by the Wall Street bankers and the wealthiest people in the U.S., e.g. Soros, Zuckerberg, Gates, Dell, et al. But they won't do it, because they're all accomplices in stealing from the people.
14
How come the news isn't picking up the change in the new house rules that specifically prevent the Congressional Budget Office from further financial assessments on the impact of the Affordable Care Act repeal?
15
I'm interested to know how removing subsidies for healthcare under ACA will 'make America great again." I, for one, will lose my subsidy and no longer be able to afford insurance. trump supporters I know have told me that's too bad for me, and I should stop whining. They think trump is a very smart man. I think trump is not smart enough to know how to "make America great again." America is already great. trump tweets his destructiveness daily.
11
Well of course they'll lose their insurance if it's repealed unless the Republicans replace it with something that works financially.
3
The ACA is just the first victim. Ryan and McConnell will go after Medicare and Social Security next. They've already proposed replacing both with worthless voucher systems. Their goal is to destroy the social safety network that has protected millions of people from medical and financial disaster over the last century.
11
So I do get to keep this year's subsidies? I can't afford the insurance the government is providing me, and I need to dump this policy if I want to only pay $2K for going uninsured. Is that per person? I don't have $16K a year to keep me and my husband covered until we reach Medicare. Then what there is of my "pension" will pay for our supplemental policy.
5
Every Republican house or senator who votes with their party instead of their conscience should get what they most fear--removal from office in the mid-terms. Impeach Trump!
8
Having experienced the consequences of Obamacare firsthand with my elderly parents, union members and life long Democrats, the only compassionate thing to do is to repeal Obamacare. Shame on you and the evil heartless trust fund liberal elites who supported this debacle.
3
Truly sorry about what happened to your parents, but that's a pretty small sample size from which to conclude that Dr. LZC--and, by extension, other supporters of the ACA--are "evil" and "heartless." It sounds like prior to the ACA your parents were enjoying good health insurance. This was due to their union - a collective bargaining group and a risk pool.
Please consider moving past the nostalgia for your parents' good coverage. Focus your energies on returning that good coverage to your parents while expanding the tent of good coverage to more Americans through an improved or replaced ACA. The more insured people, the greater the risk pool and bargaining power.
Please consider moving past the nostalgia for your parents' good coverage. Focus your energies on returning that good coverage to your parents while expanding the tent of good coverage to more Americans through an improved or replaced ACA. The more insured people, the greater the risk pool and bargaining power.
3
Republicans have demonstrated that they care neither about people becoming uninsured nor costs to the insured and the country. I hope the people will vote sensibly after the health debacle.
5
Note to progressives re health care: Don't worry, the free market will take care of everything (Ayn Rand says so). Translation: The Republicans will repeal the ACA and replace it with nothing. Millions will lose their insurance and many will die. The Republicans will blame the Democrats and get away with it. End of story.
9
I told you so. Repealing Obamacare is Obama's fault. (Did you know he was born in Kenya and shot out ambassador in Benghazi?)
2
Republicans will claim that Obama FORCED them to repeal Obamacare by passing it in the first place!
1
Times are swinging conservative. House, Senate, POTUS, likely 2 SCOTUS's... the changes will be dramatic and last decades. Only if people, real people, the majority of people, are caused to suffer will the tide turn. Else, look forward to environmental pillage on an unprecedented scale, a chasm between rich and poor not seen since the robber barons (who are back), and a massive repeal of rights for the non-wealthy.
5
When municipal water supply and waste water pipes are replaced, the old pipes have to remain in service until the new ones have been fully installed and tested. Anything else would be sabotage, and far worse: citizens would die.
2
Radical Republican extremists want to replace the Affordable Care Act with the Don'tCare Act. They are attempting to affix a market solution to a public-good and social issue. Republicans was to assert and enthrone private gain over the public good. An ideologically-driven market solution is a non-starter and will surely fail. Stop all attempts at a Don'tCare band aid.
3
Welcome to 21st century America that increasingly resembles 19th century Central America.
Americans voted for change and they got it. That change includes placing our collective health care on a live support machine that functions like the coin-operated air machines at gas stations.
Meanwhile, less than three months after the election, polls are showing some deep regrets with Obama's approval at 60% with Trump's way the dumps.
Stunningly sad, sorry and sour state of these "United" States.
Americans voted for change and they got it. That change includes placing our collective health care on a live support machine that functions like the coin-operated air machines at gas stations.
Meanwhile, less than three months after the election, polls are showing some deep regrets with Obama's approval at 60% with Trump's way the dumps.
Stunningly sad, sorry and sour state of these "United" States.
5
We must be the most incompetent people on earth. As a nation, we are ideologically driven to believe in miracles of so called "Free Market Economy" in healthcare; we have a deep dislike to adopt proven, cost effective healthcare models like the single payer British Healthcare System.
The Republicans who will finally slay the ACA do not have a cost effective alternative, other than converting medicaid into block grants administered by the States, and buying insurance across State lines. There is no proof of concept to prove that their ideas will enhance care, and bring healthcare costs & effectiveness in the US to be in line with the best in class in the world.
The healthcare special interests (Pharma, AMA, AHA, PBMs etc) have a vested interest in maintaining their stranglehold on feeding off the trough of taxpayer funded pool of money. They propagate the notion that a "market driven" healthcare economy can regulate itself, and that there should be far fewer restrictions on their operations in order to optimize the outcomes of healthcare markets. The beneficiaries of such a belief system have been, and will be the healthcare special interests at the expense of common folks.
Write/call your elected GOP Representatives in Congress, and demand they share with you their version of alternate healthcare plan audited by US Government Accountability Office. These charlatans need to be held accountable.
The Republicans who will finally slay the ACA do not have a cost effective alternative, other than converting medicaid into block grants administered by the States, and buying insurance across State lines. There is no proof of concept to prove that their ideas will enhance care, and bring healthcare costs & effectiveness in the US to be in line with the best in class in the world.
The healthcare special interests (Pharma, AMA, AHA, PBMs etc) have a vested interest in maintaining their stranglehold on feeding off the trough of taxpayer funded pool of money. They propagate the notion that a "market driven" healthcare economy can regulate itself, and that there should be far fewer restrictions on their operations in order to optimize the outcomes of healthcare markets. The beneficiaries of such a belief system have been, and will be the healthcare special interests at the expense of common folks.
Write/call your elected GOP Representatives in Congress, and demand they share with you their version of alternate healthcare plan audited by US Government Accountability Office. These charlatans need to be held accountable.
5
The debate around Affordable Care has been on-going since the Clinton years. It took 2 years for the Obama team to put forward and get passed their ACA. The republicans at no time during any of this put forward their alternate plan. They are now wanting to repeal the ACA with no known proposal for replacement, immediately. Why, in all this time, have they not presented their own plan? If they were really serious about making changes, doing "improvements" they should have a plan sitting on every Senator and Representative's desk for consideration, instead of this public spectacle.
6
This is the second greatest policy issue confronting Trump after immigration reform. If Trump is the negotiator he claims to be he would by absolutely foolish to allow the repeal of ACA without a replacement because outright repeal in advance would eliminate 100% of his negotiating advantage. His response to this dilemma will speak volumes about whether he is qualified to be President.
2
Pre ACA my family was in the Texas High Risk pool because of pre-existing conditions. For that "privilege" we paid $1600/month + my personal insurance premium of $800/month. After passage and after my income level decreased, my family's monthly premium went to $500 + subsidies and I began to recieve medicare at a cost of $100+/a month. Thank goodness, I could afford that amount, even at my reduced income levels. Today, my disabled son and I are on medicare, my daughters have left home. My wife is the sole recipient of the MarketPlace ACA insurance. We pay $432 without subsidies for her insurance. Without ACA, I expect that we would be spending a much greater percentage of our income than we are spending currently.
I wrote my US Senator Cronyn and he replied that the ACA is increasing our national debt and that the govt cannot afford it any longer. I wonder if we are so short on money, than why is the GOP pushing so hard for a tax cut for the wealthy. Seems counterintuitive, unless the GOP does not care whether my family or I have health insurance. I did not bother writing my other US Senator [Ted Cruz] since I recognize that Cruz does not have anyone but his own interests at heart.
I acknowledge that the ACA could be improved, so improve it and call it what you want. But do not Make America Sick Again.
I wrote my US Senator Cronyn and he replied that the ACA is increasing our national debt and that the govt cannot afford it any longer. I wonder if we are so short on money, than why is the GOP pushing so hard for a tax cut for the wealthy. Seems counterintuitive, unless the GOP does not care whether my family or I have health insurance. I did not bother writing my other US Senator [Ted Cruz] since I recognize that Cruz does not have anyone but his own interests at heart.
I acknowledge that the ACA could be improved, so improve it and call it what you want. But do not Make America Sick Again.
17
The press including the NYT needs to accept their part in aiding and abetting the froth to kill the ACA. Every time they refer to it as Obamacare, they feed oxygen and fuel to Paul Ryan and his ilk.
After the Act became law it was reported that it did not have popular support, but with little mention that those against it thought it was too liberal or that it was too conservative.
Where were the human interest stories that showed how it saved lives and kept people from bankruptcy. Today there are very few fund raisers for uninsured people with life threatening diseases. Or have you forgotten all the posters that hoped to raise $10,000 when hundreds of thousands were actually needed.
I guess the demand for political equivalency blinded our media. Suddenly with latest report from the CBA some now finally see the light. Let's hope it's not too late!
After the Act became law it was reported that it did not have popular support, but with little mention that those against it thought it was too liberal or that it was too conservative.
Where were the human interest stories that showed how it saved lives and kept people from bankruptcy. Today there are very few fund raisers for uninsured people with life threatening diseases. Or have you forgotten all the posters that hoped to raise $10,000 when hundreds of thousands were actually needed.
I guess the demand for political equivalency blinded our media. Suddenly with latest report from the CBA some now finally see the light. Let's hope it's not too late!
3
In Paul Ryan's words the repeal and delay will literally "pull the rug out" from under millions of the last and least in our country. That is only the beginning of the McConnell / Ryan ego fest's negative impacts. Look for a spike in unemployment and a recession in the healthcare sector--almost 20% of our economy.
One should not forget that broader coverage of insurance has also led to an increase in healthcare employment. Decimating funding by the repeal and delay will likely have strong and immediate negative impacts on employment and may even set off a recession in what is nearly 20% of our economy.
The better option is to repair the Affordable Care Act and pay particular attention to key cost drivers of unnecessary medicine and horrendously complex and expensive administration. A start has been made under the ACA by moving Medicare to a model of pay for results rather than pay for services. Much more needs to be done, especially in taming administration through simplification.
After all, how can the similar demographic to our neighbor to the north, Canada, be completely covered at close to half of the percent of GNP to the U.S.?
One should not forget that broader coverage of insurance has also led to an increase in healthcare employment. Decimating funding by the repeal and delay will likely have strong and immediate negative impacts on employment and may even set off a recession in what is nearly 20% of our economy.
The better option is to repair the Affordable Care Act and pay particular attention to key cost drivers of unnecessary medicine and horrendously complex and expensive administration. A start has been made under the ACA by moving Medicare to a model of pay for results rather than pay for services. Much more needs to be done, especially in taming administration through simplification.
After all, how can the similar demographic to our neighbor to the north, Canada, be completely covered at close to half of the percent of GNP to the U.S.?
6
Senator Warren Hatch stated “Republicans support repealing Obamacare and implementing step-by-step reforms so that Americans have access to affordable health care.” He should have said affordable health insurance. Our government officials conflate access to health insurance with receiving needed health care. Other than making drug companies compete for Medicare contracts, I have not seen any discussion of how they will regulate the provider side to control costs. IF “Don’t let the government get between you and your doctor” is an underlying design theme for Trumpcare then the CBO better start recalculating the projected cost of future American healthcare.
4
The ACA has expanded access, lowered costs, improved quality, and reduced the deficit. It is preventing 24,000 deaths per year. Health expenditures will be $2.6 trillion less than projected when it passed. It has reduced income inequality, as the bottom fifth's income has risen by 18 percent and the top 1 percent has fallen by 7. Coverage has risen for all age levels, income levels, and ethnic and racial groups. The share of Americans who have not received health care due to cost has dropped by one third. Uncompensated care has declined by one quarter.
Employer coverage has improved too. The growth in per-employee costs has dropped from 5.6 to 3.1 percent, and in employee premiums plus out-of-pocket costs from 5.2 to 1.5 percent. Had pre-ACA trends continued, per-employee costs would be $4,400 higher today.
The growth in health care prices has dropped, from 3.2 percent to 1.7 percent
The solvency of Medicare trust fund has been extended from 2017 to 2028. The federal deficit will be reduced by over $300 billion over the next decade and $3.5 trillion over the following decade. The average Medicare beneficiary will save $708 in premiums and cost-sharing in 2016.
Yes, the ACA could be improved. Price-gouging should be outlawed. Out-of-pocket expenses could be limited. But the ACA is working. Build on it.
http://healthaffairs.org/blog/2016/12/15/obama-administration-lays-out-i...
Employer coverage has improved too. The growth in per-employee costs has dropped from 5.6 to 3.1 percent, and in employee premiums plus out-of-pocket costs from 5.2 to 1.5 percent. Had pre-ACA trends continued, per-employee costs would be $4,400 higher today.
The growth in health care prices has dropped, from 3.2 percent to 1.7 percent
The solvency of Medicare trust fund has been extended from 2017 to 2028. The federal deficit will be reduced by over $300 billion over the next decade and $3.5 trillion over the following decade. The average Medicare beneficiary will save $708 in premiums and cost-sharing in 2016.
Yes, the ACA could be improved. Price-gouging should be outlawed. Out-of-pocket expenses could be limited. But the ACA is working. Build on it.
http://healthaffairs.org/blog/2016/12/15/obama-administration-lays-out-i...
3
For any working class family who recently had their HC premiums triple, Obama can take credit for the universality of HC paid for on the backs of the the disappearing middle class. So the outcome is what usually outcomes from socialist measures, making the system fairer by making a larger number of people incrementally poorer. Some might call that vote purchasing, as was obviously the case for student loan amnesty. I actually support universal HC in amore subdued form, but I am upset at who winds up largely paying for it. Let's get it right this time.
The people who are doing this repeal do not want to pay for the lower classes. Is it that they simply want the vulnerable to die? This is an act of war on The US perprtraded by its leaders. How is this democracy? Just end an entire system with no plan or even talk about how to proceed? Something is very wrong here. The United States is crumbling and all we seem to be able to do is watch it vanish into anarchy before are very eyes.
4
One of the reasons I moved to Europe was health care. In a single payer system, not only are you assured of care -- every acute condition I've ever had was treated promptly -- but even during the period when I was not covered by the national system, I was literally saved by the non-profit ethic of the WHOLE system, which is not predicated on profit, but asked me to pay only the reasonable cost of whatever treatment I was getting.
4
Another title "Health law"! Would it be possible to use words more precisely? Medicine is not health and vice-versa. The ACA is not a "health" law. It's a medical insurance law. It did not reorganize health (ooops, I mean medical care). It kept the main features of medical insurance and made major improvements to them.
2
When Obamacare first went into effect, about 5 million people LOST their health insurance in spite of multiple promises by Obama and the Democrats. I know a couple of these people. They then had to scramble to find less acceptable substitutes, often with much bigger deductibles and higher premiums. The policies these 5 million people used to have no longer exist, thanks to Obamacare.
The liberal press did not care much about those 5 million people. It seems that the liberal concern about people losing insurance depends on whose ox is gored.
The liberal press did not care much about those 5 million people. It seems that the liberal concern about people losing insurance depends on whose ox is gored.
1
Low Hanging Healthcare Progress Improvements
Sick people, the government, insurers, health insurance policy holders, and others bemoan the high costs of healthcare.
Much of those costs can be reduced by behavioral and technological changes that reduce the demands on the healthcare delivery systems and improve their effectiveness and integrity.
The low hanging fruit includes:
Mandatory use of the most effective proven patient safety measures in all healthcare facilities.
Mandatory use of the most effective proven food safety measures in all food industry facilities.
Smart phones that will not text from a vehicle except when the vehicle is in Park.
Vehicles that will not go much above the local speed limit for more than short times.
Vehicles that will stop themselves to avert rrear-enders.
School menus that support healthy choices.
Healthcare facility menus that support healthy choices
Taxes on sugary sodas.
Increased taxes on tobacco products.
Improved measures to detect, report, and address healthcare fraud, waste, mismanagement, and other wrongdoing.
Others?
Sick people, the government, insurers, health insurance policy holders, and others bemoan the high costs of healthcare.
Much of those costs can be reduced by behavioral and technological changes that reduce the demands on the healthcare delivery systems and improve their effectiveness and integrity.
The low hanging fruit includes:
Mandatory use of the most effective proven patient safety measures in all healthcare facilities.
Mandatory use of the most effective proven food safety measures in all food industry facilities.
Smart phones that will not text from a vehicle except when the vehicle is in Park.
Vehicles that will not go much above the local speed limit for more than short times.
Vehicles that will stop themselves to avert rrear-enders.
School menus that support healthy choices.
Healthcare facility menus that support healthy choices
Taxes on sugary sodas.
Increased taxes on tobacco products.
Improved measures to detect, report, and address healthcare fraud, waste, mismanagement, and other wrongdoing.
Others?
1
Many studies predicted Hillary Clinton would win the election. Hmmmm. The NYT predicted she would win. Hmmmm. I predicted Trump would win. He did. I predicted the Clinton's supposedly purely charitable foundation would lose a lot of donations post election. It did. I predict the repeal of the Unaffordable Healthcare Act will cost far far less than 18 million their insurance, and the liberal media and its lemmings here will rationalize away the truth and be in denial when the 18 million people do not lose their insurance.
I predict your misguided arrogance will prevent you from having friends.
7
I wonder, Is this the same Congressional Budget Office who was promoting the virtues of Obamacare and predicted the average subsidy would be $2800.00 a year by 2016. Is that the same $2800,00 that turned into a $4600.00 subsidy? Well, it was close, right?
With cost projections that accurate, we should take whatever this commission says to the bank and collect all that great interest the Feds are allowing.
With cost projections that accurate, we should take whatever this commission says to the bank and collect all that great interest the Feds are allowing.
Republicans are poised to replace Obamacare with the Trumpdon'tcare Plan.
1
Boo hoo hoo. People paying for their insurance. Can you believe it? My premiums have tripled under Obamacare.
Here's the Republican response to your having to pay 3 times as much for health insurance under the ACA. This answer from some of the comments below.
"You should have quit your job and found employment elsewhere. A job with better benefits. Perhaps in another state. If that was impossible just use the ER for all your health care needs."
See that was easy. Next problem.
"You should have quit your job and found employment elsewhere. A job with better benefits. Perhaps in another state. If that was impossible just use the ER for all your health care needs."
See that was easy. Next problem.
5
I recently posted a personal story that one reader suggested I repeat, in my mind because we do not understand how foreign HC systems do a better job at a much lower cost.
"We are expats living in France, fortunate to be under this country's universal health care as my wife was recently diagnosed with cancer.
With our GP we CHOSE both medical center and specialists, in this case professor's service in Nice two hours away.
Within days, often hours, all the tests, biopsies and appropriate specialists were mobilized, within a week protocols defined for treatment, henceforth once a week we return to the university hospital in Nice, one of France's four leading poles of excellence for this illness.
Both w/long term illnesses, the French social security boosted our coverage for theses illnesses from an average of 80% to 100%.
Like most French we do have private "complementary" insurance to cover the 80/100% delta plus a choice of comfort items. Both retired and getting on our monthly upscale insurance policy runs us about $230 a month for both (no use here).
Unwilling to worry the family we held off telling of our predicament but when I informed my FL based son his second cry of despair was "do you have enough money...".
An equal shock for him to hear that we were fully covered under one of the world's #1 health care system (tied w/ Japan), a system that provides quality TO ALL at an average of 40% less that the US (positioned #14 or #17 depending on the comparative studies).
"We are expats living in France, fortunate to be under this country's universal health care as my wife was recently diagnosed with cancer.
With our GP we CHOSE both medical center and specialists, in this case professor's service in Nice two hours away.
Within days, often hours, all the tests, biopsies and appropriate specialists were mobilized, within a week protocols defined for treatment, henceforth once a week we return to the university hospital in Nice, one of France's four leading poles of excellence for this illness.
Both w/long term illnesses, the French social security boosted our coverage for theses illnesses from an average of 80% to 100%.
Like most French we do have private "complementary" insurance to cover the 80/100% delta plus a choice of comfort items. Both retired and getting on our monthly upscale insurance policy runs us about $230 a month for both (no use here).
Unwilling to worry the family we held off telling of our predicament but when I informed my FL based son his second cry of despair was "do you have enough money...".
An equal shock for him to hear that we were fully covered under one of the world's #1 health care system (tied w/ Japan), a system that provides quality TO ALL at an average of 40% less that the US (positioned #14 or #17 depending on the comparative studies).
4
This whole debate is and has been ridiculous. We already pay for everyone's healthcare, we just do it in the most inefficient manner possible. If an uninsured person gets sick, they often wait until it has progressed to a dangerous point and then seek help at the Emergency Room. And yes, they will be seen and stabilized before discharge, and they will pay little or nothing because they have little or nothing no matter how many bills or threats they receive. So who pays? We all do - in higher health care costs across the spectrum.
Would it not make more sense to insure everyone, creating a huge pool of healthy and sick alike, and then providing some basic health care to catch problems before they become expensive disasters for patient and pocketbook alike? Or is that just too rational for the US these days?
Would it not make more sense to insure everyone, creating a huge pool of healthy and sick alike, and then providing some basic health care to catch problems before they become expensive disasters for patient and pocketbook alike? Or is that just too rational for the US these days?
12
Your last paragraph defines Obamacare and since its inception, Emergency room care is down dramatically. In fact, if people with ACA coverage show up with non-emergency circumstances to ER's, as they did before ACA, they are told specifically where to go next time in non-emergencies. If you haven't noticed, there are now thousands of small urgent care facilities across the country to cater to both ACA insured and the uninsured.
4
Couldn't agree more. Hard to understand the Republican Party's and conservative advocacy groups' belligerent opposition to the ACA. For crying out loud, its source is a conservative think tank plan -- created at the Heritage Foundation -- and was taken up by Republican Gov. Mitt Romney in Massachusetts. Is it that the Republicans and conservative advocacy groups disagree with the Heritage Foundation and believe the ACA -- essentially a gift to the private insurance industry, with its absence of any meaningful controls, in return for which the insurance industry agreed to cover people with pre-existing illnesses and children up to age 26 -- or is their opposition political (opposed to it because it was taken up by the Democratic Party) or is their opposition to it political and racist (it was proposed by a black Democratic President)? I do not believe that conservative/Republican rural Americans object to healthcare or health insurance; I believe that they just don't want to pay for it or, perhaps, be told that they have to buy insurance. They'd rather hold off on regular health care, wait to use their local emergency room and have the rest of us pay for their care. Similarly, it's difficult to understand the Democrats' new-found love for this law, with it's glaring absence of a public option. Too many other industrialized nations have figured out how to develop a national healthcare system, and one that is considerably cheaper than the system we have here.
4
This stuff isn't hard - the mandate is an essential part of the deal. Trump should know this - there has to be something for both sides or there is no deal!
Stop giving people a false choice or giving them the sense they are being forced to buy a product - provide free government care funded through taxes, instead of paying insurance premiums or getting paid less due to employer deductions for ever rising costs! Mandate prices to reflect actual cost of production!
Stop giving people a false choice or giving them the sense they are being forced to buy a product - provide free government care funded through taxes, instead of paying insurance premiums or getting paid less due to employer deductions for ever rising costs! Mandate prices to reflect actual cost of production!
2
KH - "...there has to be something for both sides or there is no deal!"
Where were you eight years ago when the Democrats said it was their way alone? Why do the Republicans have to ask the Democrats what they think when the Democrats rushed the ACA down everyone's throat? "Elections have consequences."
Where were you eight years ago when the Democrats said it was their way alone? Why do the Republicans have to ask the Democrats what they think when the Democrats rushed the ACA down everyone's throat? "Elections have consequences."
What does the GOP think the millions of people who have their health insurance taken away by them are going to say, "it's for the good of the country"?
They better make sure the gun laws benefit themselves first.
They better make sure the gun laws benefit themselves first.
1
galtsgulch - Excellent, threaten the GOP with guns! A very tolerant, liberal progressive gesture. Thank you!
Lastly, I find it surreal that here we are having the same arguments we were having eight years ago, and like a hooked fish on the dock, we will just keep flip-flopping around madly on this important matter of public policy without getting a solution implemented, all because of blind, iron-fisted, unmovable partisanship. How much of this can the voters take?
3
Price, Ryan, McConnell and the rest of the GOP Congress don't want to tell us, because they will not only hurt ACA, and Medicaid, but they will also impact and hurt those of us on Medicare, since these plans provide benefits to Medicare recipients, which Medicare doesn't cover, like the donut hole, rehab, home care and nursing home care.
So add the Medicare millions with those numbers onto the ACA and Medicaid, and Price, Ryan, McConnell et al, will be back on the street in 2018 if and when they push this through.
The above three, along with Congressmen Johnson and Brady, additionally want to also cut Social Security, to pay for the tax reform cuts for business and the 1%, along with their other rich Senator and Congressmen/women buddies.
They want to privatize all of these programs and reduce the amount we currently receive from them, which for many will be a death sentence.
These programs can all be paid for if the 1% paid their fair share, but they are driven by greed. President-elect Trump promised not to touch Medicare and Social Security, and we will hold him to his promise. It's time for us to drain this swamp on our own. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!
So add the Medicare millions with those numbers onto the ACA and Medicaid, and Price, Ryan, McConnell et al, will be back on the street in 2018 if and when they push this through.
The above three, along with Congressmen Johnson and Brady, additionally want to also cut Social Security, to pay for the tax reform cuts for business and the 1%, along with their other rich Senator and Congressmen/women buddies.
They want to privatize all of these programs and reduce the amount we currently receive from them, which for many will be a death sentence.
These programs can all be paid for if the 1% paid their fair share, but they are driven by greed. President-elect Trump promised not to touch Medicare and Social Security, and we will hold him to his promise. It's time for us to drain this swamp on our own. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!
34
Right on! All of us need to fight like heck. And Medicaid is also vital to the elderly on Medicare who don't have adequate funds if they need nursing home or Alzheimer's facility care. Medicaid uses a formula of a person's assets (house, financial accounts, land, etc) compared to likely length of care/life expectancy. So, these folks supplement their care at the end of their life with the few assets they have left in their life.
1
Mr. Trump: It's almost expected these days for candidates to make outrageous promises in the midst of campaigning, but totally unacceptable for those elected to do so after the campaign is over. Personally, I look forward to your folly; the sooner your dwindling supporters see your game time performance the better in the long run for America.
33
You are actually hoping for failure of this country so you can gloat? You, my friend are deranged.
Anyone that shows up to an emergency room in hemorrhagic shock because they were hit by a truck that ran a red light while they were crossing first avenue...will be treated. Why? Because of course. Because health care is a basic, human right provided by a functional society.
Insurance only works if pools are big and risk is diluted.
Everyone must pay in.
Single payer.
Insurance only works if pools are big and risk is diluted.
Everyone must pay in.
Single payer.
75
Ronald Reagan enshrined that right into law for US, because he knew there were those among him who do not believe in human rights, much less civility.
Thank you Ronald Reagan, however it did drive hospital costs through the roof.
We can also thank George W. Bush for making mental and physical health on par with one another. Yes, that act also drove up health insurance costs at the same time as the ACA, but that's not going away, either.
Can't blame Obama for either of those wise men's decisions, but the GOP is gonna OWN this debacle, you betcha.
Thank you Ronald Reagan, however it did drive hospital costs through the roof.
We can also thank George W. Bush for making mental and physical health on par with one another. Yes, that act also drove up health insurance costs at the same time as the ACA, but that's not going away, either.
Can't blame Obama for either of those wise men's decisions, but the GOP is gonna OWN this debacle, you betcha.
1
Didn't the Donald promise "Health Care for all" a few days ago ?
To be honest the world is much less depressing these days when you drink the T-kool-aid.
I even found the second season of the man in the high castle cheerier than reality this last week ...
To be honest the world is much less depressing these days when you drink the T-kool-aid.
I even found the second season of the man in the high castle cheerier than reality this last week ...
13
That's like saying everyone can stay in a Trump hotel, like I'd want to carry his card or could afford the ransom.
1
Try as I might, I just can no longer muster any sympathy for the people covered by the ACA who voted for Trumpty Dumpty and for Republicans running for Congress. Perhaps their (literal) pain and suffering will finally make them understand that they got exactly what they voted for.
I do, however, have enormous sympathy for their kids and for the people with ACA coverage who cast their votes for Democrats.
I do, however, have enormous sympathy for their kids and for the people with ACA coverage who cast their votes for Democrats.
39
It looks increasingly likely that the Republicans will repeal or cripple the ACA very soon. They have the votes to do so. But they do not have the votes they would need to implement a replacement.
Donald Trump's recently promised 'affordable. better insurance for everyone', which sounds a lot like universal coverage. Make the Republicans deliver on that. In other words make the Republicans either genuinely improve on the ACA or let them twist in wind as millions lose coverage and many are harmed.
In the absence of vastly improved, widened and more affordable insurance coverage, the Democrats need enough spine to sit on their hands and relay relentless anecdotes in the press, on tv and online of people getting sick and dying at the hands of the Republicans. The Republicans have for years shown a propensity for brutality which must now be matched or exceeded by the Democrats, to whom brutality does not appear to come naturally.
Donald Trump's recently promised 'affordable. better insurance for everyone', which sounds a lot like universal coverage. Make the Republicans deliver on that. In other words make the Republicans either genuinely improve on the ACA or let them twist in wind as millions lose coverage and many are harmed.
In the absence of vastly improved, widened and more affordable insurance coverage, the Democrats need enough spine to sit on their hands and relay relentless anecdotes in the press, on tv and online of people getting sick and dying at the hands of the Republicans. The Republicans have for years shown a propensity for brutality which must now be matched or exceeded by the Democrats, to whom brutality does not appear to come naturally.
32
you apparently missed all the brutal attacks the so called peaceful democrats made on republicans trying to leave trump speeches.
I can't speak for anyone else, but my health insurance premiums have nearly doubled since the ACA went through.
I can't speak for anyone else, but my health insurance premiums have nearly doubled since the ACA went through.
The irony Trump's voters will see how their white working class superhero will reward them with health care debt and the collection agency calling them to pay up. The republican since 2009 talking about ACA replacement but until now nothing.
19
It's a rouse. Americans have to remember the last Republican President who proposed Universal Healthcare to a Republican majority in Congress and was soundly defeated was GWB.
My question is, IF the ACA is repel, are these Trump/Republicans voters going turn around and vote AGAIN against their best interest in 2018 and in 2020? Or will they learn and vote FOR their best interest?
21
I fail to understand how voting for Trump is voting against my interest. What Obama has forced in many of us is insurances that has high premiums, high deductibles, and surpirse costs not covered by insurance. What I want is better access to care not insurance. What is the point of having the latter if it does not allow for the former?? What we need are government-subsidized clinics and, if desired by the voters, catastrophic insurance.
Time will tell; polls and common sense certainly didn't in November.
If the not-one-but-*two* terms of Cheney and W mean anything, though, his reelection is a safe bet. Don't get sick...
If the not-one-but-*two* terms of Cheney and W mean anything, though, his reelection is a safe bet. Don't get sick...
Some of the most vulnerable in our society, the sick and the poor are now more afraid than ever. How could anyone treat other humans with such disrespect? My family finds it hard to sleep at night because of our daughter's precarious medical condition but at least we can look ourselves in the mirror and feel whole. Those who vote to repeal Obamacare and refuse to communicate about what is to come should hang their heads in shame. I am sure, however, they sleep well knowing that they have the medical coverage that they need.
97
What about the untold tax payers that was going to pay for the ACA, without being ask. It was a lie that it was free.
There's only one reason why the Republicans are crazy to repeal the ACA. They hate Obama with every fiber of their bodies. It is like a cancer in their souls (well, maybe souls is a stretch).
43
Nothing to worry about folks.
Congress will not lose their healthcare, pensions, vacation time, or generous salary !
Congress will not lose their healthcare, pensions, vacation time, or generous salary !
33
In a recent NYT Op-Ed piece, former Republican congressman Eric Cantor claimed, in response to Pres. Obama's call for ideas to expand health care coverage after he took office, "For a long time, Republicans had been working on proposals to utilize high-risk pools to help patients with pre-existing conditions, to lower overall costs, and to expand coverage in the small employer market — policies that were compatible with the president’s public goals." This would suggest that Republicans were close to a workable plan at the time, yet seven years later, when faced with replacing the ACA, where is the plan? Apparently Mr. Cantor's claim is slightly exaggerated. Maybe it's cause they figured out that all of their ideas have already failed. In addition, many Republican-controlled states have benefitted from not having the burden of financing high-risk pools and Medicaid expansion. Pres. Trump's pick for HHS, Tom Price, wants to shift as much of the federal burden back to the states as possible, although he supports tax credits (translate: premium subsidies) that would increase with age. Currently, ACA premiums are based on a combination of income and age, with older people paying no more than three times the premium for younger (presumably healthier) individuals. It's unclear whether Price's scheme would offset the expected increase in premiums rated by age alone. Nor is it clear how lower-income people would benefit from such a plan. As the saying goes, "Silence is deafening."
15
The GOP stupidly thinks that "the markets," block grants to states, and tax credits will solve everything.
That was what we had before, and 20 million people who have insurance today didn't have it then.
When the state-level high risk pools are reopened with lifetime claim limits and astronomical rates, and people start dropping dead for lack of insurance, maybe the public who voted for Trump will wake up.
But until they do, that is what we are facing.
That was what we had before, and 20 million people who have insurance today didn't have it then.
When the state-level high risk pools are reopened with lifetime claim limits and astronomical rates, and people start dropping dead for lack of insurance, maybe the public who voted for Trump will wake up.
But until they do, that is what we are facing.
37
And how many of those 20 million were forced to get coverage because they could not afford to pay the fine.
Japan’s explicit price controls are roughly emulated in other countries via the use monopsonistic systems. Monopsony, meaning “single buyer” is the flip side of monopoly. A monopsonist sets prices below free market equilibrium. It does not matter if there is an actual single payer or many buyers (or payers) whose prices are set by the government or by insurance companies in collusion with each other. More competition among sellers generally leads to lower prices. However, more competition among buyers leads to higher prices. In the health insurance industry the beneficial effects of more insurance companies competing for patients are far outweighed by the adverse effects of insurance companies competing for doctors and hospitals in their HMO plans. This was completely misunderstood during the recent debate on health care reform. With health care, more competition among insurance companies on balance results in higher prices.
Focusing attention on the insurance companies, which are simply intermediaries between the doctors and the patients, was a tragic error. It would like trying to solve a problem of high energy prices by focusing on gasoline stations. Only if the government sets prices can health care prices be controlled. Controlling prices does not automatically result in longer waiting times. Japan and Switzerland generally have shorter waiting times to see doctors than does the USA. Additionally, if prices were controlled ..."
http://seekingalpha.com/article/1647632
Focusing attention on the insurance companies, which are simply intermediaries between the doctors and the patients, was a tragic error. It would like trying to solve a problem of high energy prices by focusing on gasoline stations. Only if the government sets prices can health care prices be controlled. Controlling prices does not automatically result in longer waiting times. Japan and Switzerland generally have shorter waiting times to see doctors than does the USA. Additionally, if prices were controlled ..."
http://seekingalpha.com/article/1647632
12
The Times published a story a week ago or so about how the ACA about how it has been instrumental in the institutional setting of heath care to work on lowering costs and ultimately insurance and patient costs. That story contradicts your assertion that there was no other focus than on insurance companies. There is a perception problem with the law from a lot of the public about depth of solution finding that was woven into the ACA. It's too bad the POTUS didn't cheer lead for his accomplishment because there is a lot of untold good that has come from it.. we hear only the bad because the right-wing has such a loud megaphone to drown out the voices of reason in the country.
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/02/us/politics/obama-health-care-afforda...
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/02/us/politics/obama-health-care-afforda...
8
Republican Congressman Paul Ryan has a long term obsession with the wrong economic guru.
He has no serious interest as to family financial hardships, profoundly drastic illness, or medical bankruptcies of ordinary people.
Not long ago Jesuit scholars from Georgetown University called him out on his hypocrisy by informing him his budget plan “appears to reflect the values of your favorite philosopher, Ayn Rand, rather than the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
You might recall Ryan blamed poverty on the culture of inner city men and claimed poor children getting free lunches at school lack caring parents.
Clearly, Ryan and his crew need to repeal their own healthcare benefits they obtained through Obamacare. And start over with their own pre-existing conditions and see how that goes,
He has no serious interest as to family financial hardships, profoundly drastic illness, or medical bankruptcies of ordinary people.
Not long ago Jesuit scholars from Georgetown University called him out on his hypocrisy by informing him his budget plan “appears to reflect the values of your favorite philosopher, Ayn Rand, rather than the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
You might recall Ryan blamed poverty on the culture of inner city men and claimed poor children getting free lunches at school lack caring parents.
Clearly, Ryan and his crew need to repeal their own healthcare benefits they obtained through Obamacare. And start over with their own pre-existing conditions and see how that goes,
41
he is just another republican puke and lackey of the 1% - with their every man for himself mantra - I do not understand why anyone would sign up for the military with these clowns running the show.
Members of Congress get Gold Standard healthcare (nothing related to Obamacare), the very best plan ever FOR LIFE. That makes them so out of touch with how most Americans struggle with premiums and soaring prescription drugs (so many get campaign money from pharmaceutical & healthcare super pacs).
You mean to tell me that taking away people's health insurance could cost them their health insurance?
I'm shocked!
I'm shocked!
31
For all those rotten souls who blame poor people, and all of us on Obamacare, for raising their rates, (a complete myth), wait until they see their rates go thru the roof when the 20 million of us soon to be uninsured overwhelm the hospital ER's. Who will pay for the uninsured? The insured. More uninsured will lead to skyrocketing premiums and deductible. The joke will be on all of you cruel fools.
America truly is a heartless, soulless, savage nation. Part of it anyway.
America truly is a heartless, soulless, savage nation. Part of it anyway.
42
Nonsense....of those supposed 18 million many had insurance via their employer prior to ACA rolling out. And of the remaining many were getting it elsewhere or going to the ER and not paying at all. Bottom-line is the ACA is falling apart and many states are already seeing double digit increases.
5
Please offer some proof that of these 18 million many have or did have insurance through their employer. Next, the reason ACA is falling apart in some place is because Republicans blocked medicare expansion refused top start insurance markets. If you say something is broken then go out and break it to prove you are right I would not call that honest or caring much about the people they are supposed to represent.
3
If it wasn't for the fact that Obama ran with a platform of reforming health insurance and having a 16 million edge voter mandate to realize that vision, I would have to pretend the Republicans are right to cherry-pick the worst situations, paint the whole nation with the same pessimistic brush, and sail headlong into destroying a popular government initiative. But the situation isn't the way the GOP portrays it, with only the most extreme cases of unintended consequences put in place of practical example. I wish what the politicians could do would be to actually go to work, just this once, and see if a solution couldn't be worked out om the ACA now that scapegoat number one is leaving the picture. It wouldn't even have to be a compromise, it could be a similar law with the things that work left in and the things that caused problems fixed, Trump gets what he want's, and the Repubs save face. But the problem is and always will be blind devotion to partisan ideology, rendering the GOP paralyzed when the crunch is on. Maybe in 2018 voter sentiment will finally overcome Koch spending and gerrymandering and Dems can then fix what is a fruitless exercise in preserving public participation in restoring the common good.
13
all that the Democrats ever do is raise taxes and spend money on "plans" that almost always fail. How many millions did Obama give to green energy start-ups that went out of business in their first year. I keep hearing about all the poor people who will lose their insurance, And all the rich people who don't need it. But what about us middle class people who make just a little too much to qualify for health care subsidies who's premiums have doubled since ACA took effect?
As imperfect as the ACA is, to take away health insurance from Americans who now have it is shameful, backwards, and cruel, not to mention the worst sort of partisan politicking by millionaires who happen to get great coverage with their jobs, and who will not be impacted (except they might make more money for themselves or their families and for insurance company stockholders and CEOs). When the ACA was first implemented, I actually lost health *care* I liked in order to get insurance coverage with the ACA. I live in a city that offered, and has promised to always offer, health care to folks who live here, which is a relief, though it is getting harder and harder to live here; the care doesn't function as insurance, however, so to avoid a federal penalty I purchased insurance through my state ACA exchange, Covered California. While I still hold out hope for us to join the rest of the countries that offer single payer style care, having insurance I can afford thanks to the ACA has been a good thing. Let's move forward to single payer, not backward to what will surely cost some of us our lives. I hope states start seriously looking into implementing universal health care and it gets to the point where the feds have to follow.
29
One could also argue that taking health insurance away from Americans who now have it, is unconstitutional.
1
Call and write your representative in Congress people! Write to the local paper, call your chamber of commerce, call your senators and for god's sake, we must all call the prez-elect's office since he does not do email! The message I send is always the same: why can't we have the same insurance mitch Mc Connell and Paul Ryan have? Yeah, why not? That pesky govt insurance sure seems to work well for them.
26
Fat lotta good that does. My representative in the 16th district, Adam Kinzinger, has office staff (or maybe it's an algorithm) that just keep emailing me the same form letter telling me all the resons I'm wrong for fearing loss of my health insurance. People do answer the phones at his offices (I call all 3 of them every day) and are very polite, and listen carefully, and promise to pass along my messages - but it's like talking to Steve or Amy in Bangalore; all they want is to be rid of me.
2
Can honest to goodness American's with millions and billions of dollars get together to start an (HONEST insurance and pharmaceutical company), where the premiums and drugs are within everyone's reach. I'm begging for the good people who care about others to put their heads together and do their best to help the 18 million who are about to loose the first decent health care, some the first time covered, for them? For the common good! Please?
15
no
8
Research has shown that, generally speaking, the 1% has less empathy than others. If they cared about society rather than simply themselves, they would be willing to pay higher taxes. And they wouldn't be putting their profits before the health and welfare of their fellow citizens and the planet.
The problem with schemes where everyone pays so a few can benefit is that the ones who do not pay their fair share. I have not been in a hospital for 40 years. I have been to a clinic three times. Why should I being paying for slugs who don't work, do/did drugs, drank, smoked, partied all night, ate unhealthy food? If they are sick it is most likely of their own doing, so they should pay their own way.
What? You didn't save for the problem? You had the same chance as everyone else to prepare and run your life. Your bad decisions and subsequent emergency is not my concern.
The unAffordable Care Act is not the only unfair government pyramid scheme. They all need to be eliminated.
The kicker comes soon. There is 7.6 billion subsidy to Insurance companies to eat ObamanationCare; When that free money sunsets, you can expect rates to triple again. AGAIN.
If there is any problem in the country, the fed.gov surely make it make it well salted and unfixable--at a very high cost. Fraud and corruption will run rampant while the representatives who enacted it will all get rich, right Hillary? Not once. On every boondoggle the fed.gov touches. Every one. Do not expect any politician to vote down the money train.
ISIS may be terrorists, but the fed.gov is the biggest enemy we have. And it is the most dangerous institution in the world. ©2017
What? You didn't save for the problem? You had the same chance as everyone else to prepare and run your life. Your bad decisions and subsequent emergency is not my concern.
The unAffordable Care Act is not the only unfair government pyramid scheme. They all need to be eliminated.
The kicker comes soon. There is 7.6 billion subsidy to Insurance companies to eat ObamanationCare; When that free money sunsets, you can expect rates to triple again. AGAIN.
If there is any problem in the country, the fed.gov surely make it make it well salted and unfixable--at a very high cost. Fraud and corruption will run rampant while the representatives who enacted it will all get rich, right Hillary? Not once. On every boondoggle the fed.gov touches. Every one. Do not expect any politician to vote down the money train.
ISIS may be terrorists, but the fed.gov is the biggest enemy we have. And it is the most dangerous institution in the world. ©2017
2
You need to understand how insurance works.
9
The failure of the young and healthy to make this scheme pay off as promised was NO accident. It was fully intentional.
If single-payer is the way to go, you need to consider WHY Vermont could NOT come up with a workable single-payer system. Don't stick Americans with stuff that even sweet liberal Vermont could not make work.
If single-payer is the way to go, you need to consider WHY Vermont could NOT come up with a workable single-payer system. Don't stick Americans with stuff that even sweet liberal Vermont could not make work.
2
@J. Madison:
You are right. If all these schemes force everyone to belong and pay, then the system is rigged. However, there is no problem with a true insurance system, which is private and voluntary. In that one you pay your premiums only because you want to, but so do those who don't take care of their health.
Unfortunately, in our country we now have a huge class of people who are too poor to pay for health care (among other things), and not skilled or motivated enough to get a job. We must take care of them. And that's where the dangerous government comes in: in promises to feed and heal these people if you, the healthy employed person pays up. And it takes its cut, a huge cut, an ever increasing cut.
Enough people like you have simply surrendered, and paid up just to have a peaceful life. And you keep paying….and paying. But the government you hired to fix the problem creates even more problems. Then you complain. So, what's the solution?
You are right. If all these schemes force everyone to belong and pay, then the system is rigged. However, there is no problem with a true insurance system, which is private and voluntary. In that one you pay your premiums only because you want to, but so do those who don't take care of their health.
Unfortunately, in our country we now have a huge class of people who are too poor to pay for health care (among other things), and not skilled or motivated enough to get a job. We must take care of them. And that's where the dangerous government comes in: in promises to feed and heal these people if you, the healthy employed person pays up. And it takes its cut, a huge cut, an ever increasing cut.
Enough people like you have simply surrendered, and paid up just to have a peaceful life. And you keep paying….and paying. But the government you hired to fix the problem creates even more problems. Then you complain. So, what's the solution?
1
Prices go up? My Blue Cross doubled as a result of Obamas insurance joke. It was supported to drop in price. Now I have to take a lesser policy instead of the good coverage I had.
2
Your Blue Cross doubled because medical care is more expensive. How do you possibly think the Affordable Care Act is responsible for higher rates? And just what do you think is going to happen when the ACA is repealed with no replacement. Healthy, young people will be insured. The working class, the middle aged and the elderly, and the people who already have some condition will not be able to afford medical care. Rural hospitals will close. Losses due to care provided to uninsured patients will skyrocket. We become sicker and poorer. That will be legacy of the incoming administration.
19
for the same coverage? really? And this is, of course, Obama's fault?
2
It isn't just the people getting thrown off their insurance, it's the effect of all those indigent care patients hitting the emergency room without coverage or without the ability to pay their deductible. The hospitals and those who fund them would be greatly affected unless they just turned they away. How many times do you suppose that plays on the news?
7
By law, ER's cannot turn people away & refuse treatment due to inability to pay. That is part of the problem with having an uninsured population: uncompensated care adding to the costs passed on to those with private insurance. We all pay for that care one way or another.
8
Not only we pay, but we pay much more, because people go to ER when preventable or easily treatable conditions become severe. Or they die. Not having universal coverage not only cruel, it is only uuugely expensive, as our fearless leader would say
7
Donald Trump said he would replace Obamacare with something "more beautiful". What does he mean by that? Could he be thinking of introducing a U.K.-style National Health Service (NHS)? He could, after all, with a stroke of a pen.
Now THAT would really set the cat among the Republican pigeons!
Now THAT would really set the cat among the Republican pigeons!
14
What does "access to affordable healthcare" mean Senator Hatch? Cheap policies that don't provide adequate coverage?
16
Congress won't listen to us. They don't have to, they still win even when a minority of Americans support them. Meanwhile, we are drowning in premiums and deductibles, twisting ourselves in knots every year with paperwork and debt, degrading our quality of life (and end-of-life).
The only power we have left is the power of the purse. This country needs single payer, or at the very least, a public option. Perhaps the only answer left is a national boycott of health insurance premiums if a public option or single payer is not installed by X date. Yes, there is a lot of risk, but no great movement succeeded without great sacrifice.
The only power we have left is the power of the purse. This country needs single payer, or at the very least, a public option. Perhaps the only answer left is a national boycott of health insurance premiums if a public option or single payer is not installed by X date. Yes, there is a lot of risk, but no great movement succeeded without great sacrifice.
66
That's an interesting idea: boycott the health insurance industry to change it. I would do it. Ironically, as a hospital employee, I am not allowed to work without health insurance.
6
Good.
Maybe those 19M can start to earn their coverage like the rest of us, and hopefully our premiums & deductibles will come back down.
Maybe those 19M can start to earn their coverage like the rest of us, and hopefully our premiums & deductibles will come back down.
That's not how it works. People with inadequate coverage tend to need the most expensive care because they put off going to the doctor, and then they can't afford the bill. Guess who gets stuck helping the hospital 'make up the difference'? People like us, who are insured. Premiums and deductibles will not come down. They will continue to increase, because insurance companies will be unfettered.
Also, children living in poverty can't earn coverage.
Also, children living in poverty can't earn coverage.
14
you are just so wonderful - a real american
3
It's unclear what you mean by "the rest of us" who are apparently paying high premiums and deductibles. Are you referring to people in corporate group plans? To my knowledge, most corporations cover most of the costs of health insurance though they are hidden in determining wages and benefits to workers. As for the 19 million, I would guess most are actually hard-working people who are self-employed, in small businesses or have been laid off due to economic downturns and cannot get coverage like people in group plans do. Maybe they should just quit or close down and become employees of huge corporations. In the past, those decisions had to be made sometimes and will be again if health insurance is not more available and portable.
3
Who knew that increasing health care for fellow Americans would create such RAGE for many?
These very same angry folks don't mind paying for endless war or for subsidies for the well off. No problem.
These very same angry folks don't mind paying for endless war or for subsidies for the well off. No problem.
31
I'd like to see a study of prior projections the CBO have made vs what actually occurred. Congress always "consults" them, but has anyone every looked to see if these projections are actually accurate?
2
The CBO projections from the mid-1960s of what Medicare would cost in 1990 was the biggest clean joke of the century. They were off by 740%.
Oh yeah - the sales pitch was that it would not add to the budget deficit.
Oh yeah - the sales pitch was that it would not add to the budget deficit.
3
They WERE and ARE accurate. Look it up.
6
I bet if the tax laws were changed and if even a fraction of the corporate tax loopholes were closed, we would be able to fund a national healthcare plan. but as long as corporations can get away with paying no or low taxes, the burden of US taxes will be carried on the backs of what's left of the middle class.
are we done with the GOP yet? have we learned our lesson yet?
are we done with the GOP yet? have we learned our lesson yet?
26
I am always amazed nowadays at the cruelty of Republicans. I should not be. I realized it 3 decades ago, which is why I stopped voting for Republican candidates for even the most minor of local elected positions, no matter how charming they seem. They cannot be trusted with the lives of ordinary people and cannot be trusted with our taxes.
38
Thankfully I have Medicare. Why can't everyone have it?
19
You have it now. When the Republicans get done you may not have it much longer.
18
Good question, but that would be rather simple for the Republicans to understand and their are in bed with their donors. What I do not get is, why everyone freaking out WHEN half of them voted for Trump knowing that him and Republicans are going to get rid of OC/ACA...??? My point is, you voted for him, now deal with it.
10
And those who lost their "approved" insurance will regain the insurance they lost. Those who live off the others can be insurance by extending Medicaid. Every one can have insurance. Just not the mess Obama created. Do not drop those with pre=existing conditions . protect portbility and have a "charity" program. And drop prohibitions of programs that were working well. An office ike mine of men and women who've had their families and don't need or want birth control should NOT lose their policies because our plan didn't include birth control. Obamacare is simply nonsensical. Designed by those who don't and never did practice medicine. Rahm E was an administrative psychiatrist. Useless for people solutions.
Rahm E was never a psychiatrist. You are confusing him with his brother who IS a doctor. Get your facts straight.
7
So if you're in an employer-sponsored plan, I don't see how you would somehow lose your policy. Plus I don't think "birth control" is a particularly large item when factoring in costs of health plans. Finally, although you support keeping pre-existing conditions and portability, you don't seem to grasp the expense to insurance companies taking on those risks. For "charity" to work, you need to come up with about $30 billion more to cover the costs subsidized by the ACA. Or, you could support a Medicare-type plan which would be supported by a modest increase in Medicare taxes. This would be a far simpler and more efficient method, but is opposed by Republicans on ideological grounds.
7
There is no way you can cover pre-existing conditions without everybody being in the pool. Translation - mandate. There is no way you can expand Medicaid without raising taxes. And there is no way people can have adequate healthcare without the governmental control of what is, or isn't, being covered. You could find it out in five minutes Google search. But of course, asking a Trump voter to read or think is mission impossible.
Every one talks about increases in their insurances, but no one is saying anything about how Medicare D (drug insurance for old folks) has also increased by almost 100%. I was paying around $36 a month for drug insurance and also paid $364 up front, before the insurance would kick in. This year, the insurance went up to $68 a month and the up front amount went up to $400. There was no increase on SS, and thus, no increase on my pension. Living on a fixed income, with such increases, one has to reduce or eliminate some purchases and activities. This will filter through the economy and business will suffer. Business suffer, unemployment creeps up. So what is one to do?
22
Oh please. $36 to $68 over more than a DECADE since Medicare part D passed is NOTHING. Try biweekly employer sponsored insurance premiums that more than doubled in the past 8 years (BEFORE Obamacare kicked in), and per person deductibles that went from $100 person to $500 per person. And that's with NO raise in pay for more than a decade!
6
Your cynicism noted. I worked for 40 years. When I started, the employer paid 100% of my health insurance. Soon after, the workplace board changed its policy. Every year, the health insurances relentlessly increased their rates, and the only benefit I got from that was the fact that I did not pay taxes on it. I also paid for Medicare then and now. The only way one can deduct the premiums is if one itemizes, something that seniors seldom do because their mortgages and other loans are paid off. So, my friend, try to put yourself in other people's shoes, before quacking like Trump does.
So what? The majority of those people are freeloading off other hard working citizens who are being over charged. If the only way they can score health insurance is by thumping other people to get it,...tough.
2
So Eddie- How do you feel about subsidizing Donald Trump as he hasn't paid any income taxes for over 20 years? How much of you tax dollar goes to support Trump and his merry mates from having to pay taxes- on your back?
30
I'd invite you to consider MLK's discussion of "welfare" vs. "subsidy," and the convincing conclusion that "hard working" people are just as much freeloaders as the rest of the riff-raff you so clearly despise; however, I'm fairly certain that you think you're entitled to your own set of facts and don't have an empathetic bone in your body.
Shove your "hard work" where the sun don't shine.
Shove your "hard work" where the sun don't shine.
2
No one political group destroys innocent lives as effectively as Republicans. Critics of Obamacare who claim they didn't know 20 million more Americans now have health insurance solely because of Obamacare should be more engaged in their government and less selective and politically ideological in their listening.
23
If you voted to deprive yourself of health care/insurance, then spare me any future complaints about the GOP "plans," but I can just hear ..........
If only the Dems had "helped" the GOP more, we wouldn't be forced to sell the house to pay dad's hospital bill......It's really their fault..........
Down the rabbit hole.....
If only the Dems had "helped" the GOP more, we wouldn't be forced to sell the house to pay dad's hospital bill......It's really their fault..........
Down the rabbit hole.....
15
Count on it. The Republicans are already figuring out "spin" so that when millions of people lose medical insurance because of their action, they will blame Obama for it.
13
As ever, the comments confuse health INSURANCE and health CARE. Get the for-profit insurance companies out of government health programs. There is no intrinsic benefit to health insurance. The single goal must be health care. As long as the voters don't understand this, we will not get reform of our health system.
102
Yes. Thank you.
Heather
Heather
2
" confuse health INSURANCE and health CARE."
A phony distinction...... All health policies by law in America provide free preventive services with no co-pays or deductibles.
A phony distinction...... All health policies by law in America provide free preventive services with no co-pays or deductibles.
Health policies currently provide free preventive services without copay or deductibles. ERs currently admit the uninsured. In the future?
The most recent fudge word of the people hating republicans is "accessibility" to health care insurance and hence access to health care. Paul Ryan the evil Eddie Munster of the Republican cabal dedicated to throwing millions off their health insurance use this word "accessibility". Translation: "oh health insurance is accessible alright, if you have the money to pay for it, but if not, tough luck, it's your own fault." This is Paul Ryan's compassionate conservatism. Once again republicans are committed to sleight of hand magic tricks to deceive the public into thinking they care when in fact, when the heat is off and the spotlight is not on them they will quietly dump all the people who had "access" but couldn't afford the price that it costs. In other words, in practical terms, no access at all. Another logically, verbally convoluted lie that has become the specialty of the GOP over the last decade. They use their intelligence and education to craft these verbal tricks to fool the masses. Do not let these heartless mercenaries get away with yet again.
26
It's absolutely ridiculous for this CBO to make projections any further out than 1 year. There are so many variables that can't be taken into account in 10 years, that the conclusions they come up with never pan it, even in a five year period. And for them to make some kind of prediction when they don't have any idea what the ACA is going to be replaced by, is even more ludicrous.
3
and the GOP has had how many years to find a replacement- and now all of a sudden Trump has a plan?
13
Well, it was a prediction of 18 million losing their insurance in one year. And it's a prediction based on there nothing replacing it, because there's nothing replacing it as of today.
If the CBO really wanted to muck up a prediction, it would do as you suggest..we assume that the Republicans are going to come up with a plan. I mean, really, it's been six years and there's not even a glimmer of coming up with some face saving PR. Which is pretty amazing, since this is the same party that is able to say with a straight face that tax cuts pay for themselves.
If the CBO really wanted to muck up a prediction, it would do as you suggest..we assume that the Republicans are going to come up with a plan. I mean, really, it's been six years and there's not even a glimmer of coming up with some face saving PR. Which is pretty amazing, since this is the same party that is able to say with a straight face that tax cuts pay for themselves.
13
No plan.. all talk and no walk.
3
Most people don't realize the repeal of the Affordable Care Act is about one thing and one thing only: taxes on high income earners. My income is primarily from capital gains, interest and dividends and the additional tax is 3.8% on this income. That is substantial for me and is much more so for Trump's cabinet appointees and the Republican donor class. That's why I don't see a replacement coming. And once the estate tax is abolished, which will put an additional $4 billion in Trump's kids pockets, he can claim mission accomplished and hand over the reins to Pence.
29
The only rich people that pay inheritance tax are the ones that didn't devise a trust while alive. Right now it's estates greater than $14 million and there are ample loopholes for substantial avoidance. But I agree, it would be repulsive to think so much wealth as in Trump's case can go untaxed, considering the nation's spending on wars, defense, infrastructure and safety that shelter and shield the rich, without paying their share.
13
You fail to point out that capital gains are taxed at a much lower rate than regular income, so even if that 3.8% figure is true, then the wealthy STILL come out way ahead.
This doesn't even include their tax cuts beginning in 1981, when Reagan looted the treasury, and started crushing the country with planned deficits.
This doesn't even include their tax cuts beginning in 1981, when Reagan looted the treasury, and started crushing the country with planned deficits.
16
So what? Obamacare<>Healthcare.
1
To sjaco: for some people obamacare does indeed equal health care. Without it, they will have none. Obamacare also made positive changes to your non-ACA health care which will go bye bye along with the ACA.
9
It is said a truly "high" culture can be judge on how it treats its pets, and its weakest citizens. To deny any American equal access to healthcare is unfair, unkind, and un-Christian. Health care is a right, now a privilege for the few. We are a greedy, morally bankrupt nation.
25
I offer some comic relief ...
Poem:
Humpty Trumpty said "Repeal and Replace,"
"Obamacare: Bad. A total disgrace!"
Without their insurance, thousands will die.
Save them! - An exceptional nation would try...
But not while run by this angry tough guy!
Tallest Tale:
While congressional and independent hearings into Russian and Trump/Pence collusion drag on into 2018, The Democrats find their backbone and put a halt to any significant legislation and appointments into 2018, and effectively blame the Republicans for gridlock. In 2018 Hillary becomes a representative in The House. The Democrats take back control of both houses of congress. Hillary becomes speaker. Trump and Pence are indicted, impeached, and incarcerated for treasonous conduct with Putin.
Hillary becomes president.
Poem:
Humpty Trumpty said "Repeal and Replace,"
"Obamacare: Bad. A total disgrace!"
Without their insurance, thousands will die.
Save them! - An exceptional nation would try...
But not while run by this angry tough guy!
Tallest Tale:
While congressional and independent hearings into Russian and Trump/Pence collusion drag on into 2018, The Democrats find their backbone and put a halt to any significant legislation and appointments into 2018, and effectively blame the Republicans for gridlock. In 2018 Hillary becomes a representative in The House. The Democrats take back control of both houses of congress. Hillary becomes speaker. Trump and Pence are indicted, impeached, and incarcerated for treasonous conduct with Putin.
Hillary becomes president.
7
I witnessed a crowd of nearly 3,000 people in Spokane on Martin Luther King Day boo and drown out Republican leader Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, chanting "Save Our Health Care." She delivered a few platitudes about how she's an "advocate" for this community, but Spokane County has 60,000 people covered under the Affordable Care Act who never had insurance before. This is one of the few events she has attended outside of her "bubble," carefully-vetted GOP loyalists. The fury over the Republicans' plans to gut the ACA with no responsible alternatives will only get stronger.
41
So glad to hear that! I used to live in E WA. Never did like her- too smug, false compassion.
4
What an odd form of pleasure must be to yank people`s health insurance from them and leave them at the mercy of charity. Sadism, odd as it may seem, is a conservative proclivity.
25
Yes, 18 million Americans will lose their Health Insurance.
But the devastating effects will be much more catastrophic, than on just those 18 million.
People like me, who have had good Health Insurance for our entire lives - will see our Premiums skyrocket, as the Insurance Companies scramble to try and make up the losses that they will incur.
Doctors will be forced out of business, as the Insurance Companies will be cutting way back on the payments to them.
Small rural and suburban hospitals will face the same cuts in revenue, and will wind up closing down.
When the Republicans repeal the Affordable Care Act, they will set in motion a series of snowballing effects, that will eventually lead to the complete collapse of the nations entire Health Care System.
Of course, McConnell, Pence, and Ryan will have free Health Care for the rest of their lives.
Thanks to the American Taxpayer.
But the devastating effects will be much more catastrophic, than on just those 18 million.
People like me, who have had good Health Insurance for our entire lives - will see our Premiums skyrocket, as the Insurance Companies scramble to try and make up the losses that they will incur.
Doctors will be forced out of business, as the Insurance Companies will be cutting way back on the payments to them.
Small rural and suburban hospitals will face the same cuts in revenue, and will wind up closing down.
When the Republicans repeal the Affordable Care Act, they will set in motion a series of snowballing effects, that will eventually lead to the complete collapse of the nations entire Health Care System.
Of course, McConnell, Pence, and Ryan will have free Health Care for the rest of their lives.
Thanks to the American Taxpayer.
30
So what do we know about ACA / "Obamacare"?
1. 20+ million covered.
2. Uninsured rate has fallen from 16% to 9%.
3. Deficit reducer.
4. No after-subsidy cost increase (pre-subsidy is irrelevant to consumers).
5. Employer market cost increases remain low (3% in 2016).
6. Individual elements poll extremely favorably (60-70%).
7. Over 70% people are satisfied or very satisfied with coverage.
8. Reduces income inequality by raising taxes on top 5% and providing subsidies to lower-income people.
9. States that expanded Medicaid have lower uninsured rates than those that did not.
10. Frees people from the corporate tether, as they can get insurance without working for a corporation...Freedom!
Repealing it would be a travesty. Make it better for the 2 million of 12 million on the exchanges that don't get subsidies.
1. 20+ million covered.
2. Uninsured rate has fallen from 16% to 9%.
3. Deficit reducer.
4. No after-subsidy cost increase (pre-subsidy is irrelevant to consumers).
5. Employer market cost increases remain low (3% in 2016).
6. Individual elements poll extremely favorably (60-70%).
7. Over 70% people are satisfied or very satisfied with coverage.
8. Reduces income inequality by raising taxes on top 5% and providing subsidies to lower-income people.
9. States that expanded Medicaid have lower uninsured rates than those that did not.
10. Frees people from the corporate tether, as they can get insurance without working for a corporation...Freedom!
Repealing it would be a travesty. Make it better for the 2 million of 12 million on the exchanges that don't get subsidies.
28
The Republicans started from the conviction that only free markets can provide everything, that people cannot share risks and tasks without the fear of want or the lust for excesses of everything. Mankind as thoughtless beings who cannot conceive of anything but acquisition, consumption, and fear of losing what they have. It's a hypothetical view that precedes the rise of the modern world and the benefits of science. When the ACA was proposed as a market based system for providing health care for all, they immediately devoted themselves to opposing it and when it became law to repealing it. They never examined the details of health care and how it served people's needs and affected society's use of resources, and they don't know, now. They will repeal the law without having anything but shear speculative solutions to address the consequences. The ACA will go but the results will gradually make health care unaffordable to everyone.
9
Poor Republican voters don't get sick, didn't you know that? Those 18 million are Democrats who voted for Hillary, right? Who in a Republican congress cares about them?
To those who found coverage that couldn't have happened before the ACA and incessantly whined about rising premiums (set by insurance companies who were not bridled because of kowtowing to Republicans in 2008) - you can't say of the ACA what you might about the advent of cell phones - what did you do before it became law? You know the answer.
To those who found coverage that couldn't have happened before the ACA and incessantly whined about rising premiums (set by insurance companies who were not bridled because of kowtowing to Republicans in 2008) - you can't say of the ACA what you might about the advent of cell phones - what did you do before it became law? You know the answer.
6
Republican, Democrat. Doesn't matter. If the only health insurance you can afford is practically free, and the only reason it's practically free is because other people are being overcharged, then tough luck.
I have absolutely no sympathy for Trump voters and non-voters who stand to lose their health insurance. They had numerous opportunities to learn of Trump's positions on issues that mattered. My sympathies are reserved for the rest of us, who bothered to read the candidates positions, and who took the time to vote. We are the victims. And we deserve better.
38
and that comment is based on your extensive research via Fox, or Breitbart?
1
Obama and "Obamacare" tried to fix what was an irretrievably broken heath-care system. It was a Rube Goldberg contraption forced upon all of us by the entrenched power of doctors, insurance companies, hospitals, drug companies, etc.
Nonetheless, and without a doubt, vast improvements were made by the ACA. But given the broken nature of the system and the not-much-more than band-aid attempt to fix it, premiums and deductibles were bound to increase. And the ... well, let's call them "low information" voters blamed those increases on the easy target -- Obamacare. While, of course, the Republicans, to their everlasting disgrace as human beings (but no surprise there) in their insatiable list for power, focused the ire of those disappointed citizens on Obama and his fix rather than making any serious attempt to offer help and sustenance to their fellow citizens in what is one of the wealthiest and most egregiously over-indulgent societies (for some) to ever populate this planet.
Problem is, the mentality of "me first" (if not "me only") has so warped our souls that I see nothing good in our future. And the elevation of a self-absorbed, thin-skinned, dim-witted bully, who divided to conquer, is more evidence than I can stomach. Unfortunately, even the most powerful retching has helped.
Nonetheless, and without a doubt, vast improvements were made by the ACA. But given the broken nature of the system and the not-much-more than band-aid attempt to fix it, premiums and deductibles were bound to increase. And the ... well, let's call them "low information" voters blamed those increases on the easy target -- Obamacare. While, of course, the Republicans, to their everlasting disgrace as human beings (but no surprise there) in their insatiable list for power, focused the ire of those disappointed citizens on Obama and his fix rather than making any serious attempt to offer help and sustenance to their fellow citizens in what is one of the wealthiest and most egregiously over-indulgent societies (for some) to ever populate this planet.
Problem is, the mentality of "me first" (if not "me only") has so warped our souls that I see nothing good in our future. And the elevation of a self-absorbed, thin-skinned, dim-witted bully, who divided to conquer, is more evidence than I can stomach. Unfortunately, even the most powerful retching has helped.
16
The Republican plan would allow scam insurance companies to play in the market place, those across state lines insurance companies have no regulations! High risk pools for pre-existing conditions where premiums would rise 100%to 200% percent and we would be right back to pre-ACA. The Republican healthcare plan would take the cap off and Americans would end up bankrupt just like we did before ACA was put into effect ! Then there is Paul Ryan's stupid idea of credits or vouchers that would only cover $5000 to $7000 for each person even though healthcare costs are actually $10,000 for each person today. A family of four would actually costs the family $40,000 which would leave that family short and without affordable healthcare. Under the republican's plan upper middle class and the rich would be get healthcare ! Under their plan we go backwards and more Americans would end up bankrupt or die ! The ACA just needs to be tweaked not repealed. Under the republican healthcare plan you better read the fine print ... it's not about healthcare it's about enriching their rich cronies.
13
High risk pools are a terrible idea, they make no sense economically, which is why private companies don't have them. So why should the government engage in this risky behavior? Is to keep profits privatized, while socializing loss, in the same way society usually picks up the tab for industry pollution? These clowns in congress are really pathetic in their attempt to convince the people that: doing the best thing is bad and making the worst policies is good.
7
The hatred of the ACA is rooted in the fact that the party of "personal responsibility' does everything to avoid being personally responsible for their own health care.
Being forced to pay for your own health care insurance is anethema to people who reason that if they wind up in the ER, they'll just pay 50.00 a month for the rest of their lives to cover the costs.
Nevermind the fact that the provider will write off the bill in three months time leaving the rest of us to pay for their care via higher costs and higher insurance premiums. So much for "personal responsibility."
Being forced to pay for your own health care insurance is anethema to people who reason that if they wind up in the ER, they'll just pay 50.00 a month for the rest of their lives to cover the costs.
Nevermind the fact that the provider will write off the bill in three months time leaving the rest of us to pay for their care via higher costs and higher insurance premiums. So much for "personal responsibility."
9
One Republican said ACA was like a goat in the house, destroying your furniture. He said we have to get rid of the goat before fixing the house up.
But this is a very poor analogy. ACA is not a goat destroying everything, but trying to help people who cant afford insurance.
A better analogy would be that ACA is like a doctor that costs too much. You want to replace the doctor with a better cheaper doctor. But if you fire the expensive doctor before you find a replacement then where does that leave the patient ?
Also universal health care is a great idea but those countries that have it pay a lot more taxes. Britain taxes are 57%. Canada 58%. Are Americans willing to foot the bill for universal coverage?
But this is a very poor analogy. ACA is not a goat destroying everything, but trying to help people who cant afford insurance.
A better analogy would be that ACA is like a doctor that costs too much. You want to replace the doctor with a better cheaper doctor. But if you fire the expensive doctor before you find a replacement then where does that leave the patient ?
Also universal health care is a great idea but those countries that have it pay a lot more taxes. Britain taxes are 57%. Canada 58%. Are Americans willing to foot the bill for universal coverage?
8
Overall Britain and Canada spend much less on healthcare with better overall results. If you could save 5, 10, 15 grand a year on health insurance, you might be real happy with the trade-off. Businesses could pay more taxes instead of paying for employee healthcare. They'd probably come out ahead.
12
A 58% tax rate in Canada? In Ontario in 2016 the average of federal and provincial taxes on income of $40,000 would be about 20%; on $100,000 about 29%; and on $250,000 about 40%, but this would put you in the top 1% of earners. There is sales tax and property tax (for home owners) to consider, but that doesn't take you anywhere near 58%. On the whole, lower income earners in Canada pay less tax than those making a similar amount in the US, whereas rich Canadians pay more. But everyone has healthcare coverage.
The Canadian system has its issues, but I have never understood why those issues are used to frighten US voters from getting real healthcare reform. Health expenditures in the US are twice as high per capita as in Canada, but US health outcomes are the worst of any developed nation. Where does all that money go?
The Canadian system has its issues, but I have never understood why those issues are used to frighten US voters from getting real healthcare reform. Health expenditures in the US are twice as high per capita as in Canada, but US health outcomes are the worst of any developed nation. Where does all that money go?
9
SMac - the money goes to the Vast military industrial complex.
The money goes to the empire to wage war and inflict suffering in the name of greed and power to the tune of trillions of dollars.
Yet somehow we are told a pack of lies that there is no money for healthcare, no money for modernization of the infrastructure which will create jobs, no money for advancing green technology which could employ millions of people and perhaps Worst of all no money for education.
When in history has this story not been told?
Why are men so mean?
(I hope I live to see how this plays out. I would like to believe that cruel people eventually get their just desserts).
The money goes to the empire to wage war and inflict suffering in the name of greed and power to the tune of trillions of dollars.
Yet somehow we are told a pack of lies that there is no money for healthcare, no money for modernization of the infrastructure which will create jobs, no money for advancing green technology which could employ millions of people and perhaps Worst of all no money for education.
When in history has this story not been told?
Why are men so mean?
(I hope I live to see how this plays out. I would like to believe that cruel people eventually get their just desserts).
1
A winning first step for the Trump presidency would be to acknowledge the value of the ACA and to make the republicans work to improve it, not repeal it. This would make a deep, favorable impression on his opposition, which I include myself among. It would be so easy and so worthwhile. The country could move on and he could have a uniting accomplishment under his belt.
14
After trump and his motley Republican crew get done with health care even the most diehard haters of Barack and Hillary will be begging for mercy, for anything to salvage some of the them from personal bankruptcy. You who voted for trump and the GOP will rue the day you did such a dirty deed. And you will be most deserving of all the onerous thing that are coming your way.
DD
Manhattan
DD
Manhattan
11
lumpy claims the everyone will get great coverage and he will cut deals directly with the hospitals - so its simple sen your medical bills to the white house and he will take care of them - good job brownie - mission accomplished
14
The possibility that 18 million will lose health insurance because of the possible repeal of the ACA is only a possibility. On the NPR, tonight on my way home from work, I heard a story about a family in rural North Carolina, a family who owns a business, a family with three children, a family that works hard, who because of the ACA paid over 30% of their income for health insurance. That family gave up their health insurance because the cost was too onerous, for them it was cheaper to pay the tax penalty. I have heard other similar stories on NPR about hard working American families paying abhorrent amounts for health insurance under the so-called “Affordable Care Act.” Some being forced to pay, or buying insurance that does not met the specification of the ACA and then charged the tax penalty. All of these people voted for Trump. I read a New York Times op-ed today by Eric Cantor, the former minority whip, who was initially encouraged by Obama but after he and Boehner presented Obama with plan for tax reform was told by Obama that it was a good plan but elections have consequences and therefore their plan was tossed. Well, the pending repeal of the ACA is a consequence of an election. In fact the repeal is payback for the passage of a law, which despite its benefits to millions of Americans, was passed without any Republican input whatsoever, because Republicans were kept out of the process of formulating the law. Yes, elections have consequences. Thank you.
3
It's hard to take seriously your claim that were listening to NPR, and then citing Cantor the partisan as an authority.
I also like the fake humility of the final "thank you."
Thank you.
I also like the fake humility of the final "thank you."
Thank you.
11
@Henry. I have you and the rest of the liberals know that I have listened to National Public Radio since the late 1970s. Politically I am an independent who used to lean to the left, but in the last 10 years, I have moved to the right, and consider myself a conservative. I have not not stopped listening to NPR, although I disagree with the slant of some hosts, who in the last 10 years have become disgusting liberal. They, like the liberal establishment, have abandoned common sense. Thank you.
1
the ONLY thing wrong with it is the name OBAMAcare...
if it had been regan care ,,,,,
if it had been regan care ,,,,,
8
If readers knew anything about Medicaid, they would understand the cuts to the ACA better. Most of the 18 million who stand to lose insurance coverage under the Republicans are ACA Medicaid recipients. These folks have good insurance but next to no health care benefits. Because few doctors accept Medicaid patients, their wait times for medical services are far longer than yours or mine. So these folks are regularly using ER's for ordinary medical care. In fact, because Medicaid covers their ER visits, they use the ER even more than the uninsured. Bottom line, Medicaid patients widely abuse the ER because they have little choice. We'd be better off if they were uninsured, visited the ER less, and costs were shared with hospitals. The loss of insurance coverage by these folks changes little about their health care. So you can subtract 11 million ACA Medicaid patients from those who will be harmed by repealing the ACA.
Where is your proof that Medicare patients are now - as we speak - widely abusing the ER because they have little choice? Uninsured ER visits are actually down across the country, and anyway the ACA was constructed to shift the burden off taxpayers for uninsured ER visits and onto affordable utilization plans for low-income groups through the Medicaid expansion. So what you assert couldn't be happening. Even Mike Pence eventually came around to understanding the goals of the ACA in this regard -- that the HHS gave him a waver to implement MC expansion in Indiana with a nominal co-pay scheme to satisfy the governor's ideology. This is the expanded 'Healthy Indiana' plan.
3
What can't be happening is happening according to this study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the gold standard for reporting medical studies. http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp1609533 As I say Bulldog, it is too bad readers don't know anything about Medicaid.
1
I wish people would stop saying that 18M people will go without insurance. My husband and I were paying ~$500/month pre-ACA. Now we pay $1100/mo. for what is basically catastrophic, and are counted in that figure b/c we have no choice but to go through the exchange. Subsidies help couples whose joint income is <$65K/year. We are healthy people who exercise and eat well, not at all rich or elite, but pay close to 20% of our income to subsidize others. Comprehensive coverage goes toward pregnancy, substance abuse, fertility . . . We both hate trump and did not vote for him, but wish people would stop counting us in this 18M figure. As for those saying that we'd be worse off post-repeal, I think that applies only to those who are subsidized - by us.
3
"but pay close to 20% of our income to subsidize others."
Odd that you receive a service, but claim that it only "subsidizes" others. With such reasoning skills, I find it hard to accept your 20% figure.
Odd that you receive a service, but claim that it only "subsidizes" others. With such reasoning skills, I find it hard to accept your 20% figure.
4
So you are paying about $13,200/yr for something who's a-prioi expected cost is $20,000.
On the face of it, that isn't so bad.
What you SHOULD be arguing about is whether the expected cost for the two of you should be blow average because of your age or habits (no smoking, regular intense exercise for example.
You can also argue that your health history is good. Just recognize that if you do that, you will be arguing in favor of chatting for, or denying coverage for, pre-existing conditions.
The problem Americans have is that most of us argue from personal experience and anecdotes. That is not, in my opinion, the point of view from which national policy should be formed.
On the face of it, that isn't so bad.
What you SHOULD be arguing about is whether the expected cost for the two of you should be blow average because of your age or habits (no smoking, regular intense exercise for example.
You can also argue that your health history is good. Just recognize that if you do that, you will be arguing in favor of chatting for, or denying coverage for, pre-existing conditions.
The problem Americans have is that most of us argue from personal experience and anecdotes. That is not, in my opinion, the point of view from which national policy should be formed.
6
Thanks David Henry. Perhaps 'only' half of our payment is a subsidy for others. Prior to ACA we paid ~8% of our income for a decent product/service (Anthem). We now pay over twice that amount for the lowest Kaiser plan with limits so high that we forgo doctor visits that might actually help us prevent or diagnose a serious illness since we know that we'll be paying out of pocket until we reach $13K. How is that odd to you? I sincerely want to know.
2
The greater and less explored irony: beyond the 18 to 20 million who will be cut off, the 150 million who will be cut back under the Senate's vote. Pre-existing condition limitation, annual caps, lifetime caps, under 26's--all gone even if you have employer-sponsored insurance. And guess what, costs will rise more sharply, just as they did during the Bush years. It is up to the press to talk about this more, not just the 18 to 20 million the semi-majority could not care less about.
7
I find it very gratifying that Obamacare will finally be repealed. It is inconceivable to me that we have free loaders getting free or almost free obamcare healthcare while mandating others to subsidize their medical health insurance. I guess if you want/need medical insurance get a job get two get 3 jobs if necessary so you can pay your medical bills. I don't ask anyone to subsidize my car, utilities, mortgage, or groceries and none should ask me to subsidize their medical care, seems simple enough, right ? For those of us having to pay ever escalating premiums, rising deductibles while having limited choices of MDs who want to see obamacare patients this is a deal gone wrong and it strikes me as being forced to sign for a bad cable tv service. Good riddance to obamacare I shall not miss you and do not care who gets chopped as long as it doesn't affect my bank account.
" I guess if you want/need medical insurance get a job get two get 3 jobs if necessary so you can pay your medical bills."
Twenty jobs wouldn't be enough to pay a one week hospital stay......
I do know how you feel about subsidizing others, however. For decades I've been underwriting pointless wars, tax breaks for profitable companies, and perks for congress.
Twenty jobs wouldn't be enough to pay a one week hospital stay......
I do know how you feel about subsidizing others, however. For decades I've been underwriting pointless wars, tax breaks for profitable companies, and perks for congress.
13
Heart of gold!
8
Single mother of two. Highly educated. Worked since the age of 16. Raised two children, both well educated, on my own as a teacher and freelance artist.
The ACA was a gift.
and jose f......your last statement says it all, and it for the sake of money alone that we find ourselves in the clutches of fear mongers and their dystopian vision.
The ACA was a gift.
and jose f......your last statement says it all, and it for the sake of money alone that we find ourselves in the clutches of fear mongers and their dystopian vision.
The Democrats talk about fairness, compassion, and people's suffering, while appealing to our better nature. The GOP never engages about this. Seven years of repeal attempts and now a rush to do so, makes it very clear what their intentions are.
If we changed the course of the discussion to plain economics, repeal of the A.C.A. costs more money, significantly more, than repealing it, per the CBO and consensus of others in the industry. If we expanded the physician's oath of "first, do no harm" to include our lawmakers, there is no reason why we couldn't test several alternatives and see which one worked better, before killing the A.C.A.
At this point, it's not about money, it's pure ideology over evidence, and moving quickly while the electorate is still confused as to what's going on and the GOP has the means to do so. Perceived threats to our gun rights have mounted more of an emotional and political response than removing health care from a sizeable part of our population. We will either get a political party that represents the people out of this mess, or we will get further anarchy and destruction within our society. Make America Great Again ... by letting them eat cake.
If we changed the course of the discussion to plain economics, repeal of the A.C.A. costs more money, significantly more, than repealing it, per the CBO and consensus of others in the industry. If we expanded the physician's oath of "first, do no harm" to include our lawmakers, there is no reason why we couldn't test several alternatives and see which one worked better, before killing the A.C.A.
At this point, it's not about money, it's pure ideology over evidence, and moving quickly while the electorate is still confused as to what's going on and the GOP has the means to do so. Perceived threats to our gun rights have mounted more of an emotional and political response than removing health care from a sizeable part of our population. We will either get a political party that represents the people out of this mess, or we will get further anarchy and destruction within our society. Make America Great Again ... by letting them eat cake.
6
If congress had the same health insurance coverage that all of us Americans use, maybe they would think twice about repealing ACA.
13
The Republicans can't stand the fact that a black man was President. Remember, Mitch McConnell said on the day that Obama was elected that the number one priority of the Republicans was to make Obama a one term President. He said this as the world was suffering the worst economic meltdown since the Great Depression.
Even though Obamacare was derived from a Heritage Foundation idea it is bad because a black man touched it. Better that 18 million citizens suffer rather than a black man get credit for making citizens lives better.
Even though Obamacare was derived from a Heritage Foundation idea it is bad because a black man touched it. Better that 18 million citizens suffer rather than a black man get credit for making citizens lives better.
14
You hit the nail on the head. I've wondered why McConnell was never tried for treason. Or at the very least, insubordination.
12
"...government of the people by the people for the people, shall not perish from the earth."
No, but hopefully this administration will.
Shame on them for taking so much away from the American people.
No, but hopefully this administration will.
Shame on them for taking so much away from the American people.
7
A good friend of mine is an Assistant US Attorney, focusing on mostly environmental issues. We were at a social function together and ran into his boss, the US Attorney for our district. He said that Medicaid fraud is so rampant, he could dedicate every attorney in his office to it full time and not even come close to scratching the surface.
How did this happen? If we could stamp out Medicaid fraud (which is mostly perpetrated by hucksters and NOT the recipients) I believe we could fund single payer with money left over.
As a side note, many people that opposed the ACA did so not because they don't want to subsidize the healthcare of their fellow Americans, but because they did not want to subsidize the for-profit insurance and pharmaceutical companies.
How did this happen? If we could stamp out Medicaid fraud (which is mostly perpetrated by hucksters and NOT the recipients) I believe we could fund single payer with money left over.
As a side note, many people that opposed the ACA did so not because they don't want to subsidize the healthcare of their fellow Americans, but because they did not want to subsidize the for-profit insurance and pharmaceutical companies.
4
" He said that Medicaid fraud is so rampant, he could dedicate every attorney in his office to it full time and not even come close to scratching the surface."
If he said it, it must be true......thanks for sharing. Did he have anything to add about the tooth fairy too?
If he said it, it must be true......thanks for sharing. Did he have anything to add about the tooth fairy too?
4
I suggest that every Trump voter who is now complaining that they are going to lose their coverage should go pound sand.
8
In the ACA debate, media has ignored a solution standing in plain sight. It's an efficient & affordable system : H.R. 676, a universal health insurance bill in Congress. Instead, we're led by politicians beholden to big-money interests serving the greed of Big Insurance.
Big insurance has diverted anger from the private health insurance sector to the government that implements programs that the private corporate sector designs and profits from. It's advantageous for the health insurance industry to foster hatred for pointy-headed government bureaucrats , driving out of people’s minds the idea that government might be an instrument of popular will,government of, by and for the people.
With Trump- Paul Ryan- Republican style ACA replacement programs, large benefits for the very rich will result. Financial Times correspondent, Martin Wolf, writes, “The tax proposals would shower huge benefits on already rich Americans such as Mr Trump,” while leaving others in the lurch, including his constituency. The reaction of the busines world reveals that Big Insurance, Big Pharma, Wall Street, the military industry, energy industries and other such "wonderful" institutions expect a very bright future".
If the general U.S. population remains passive, apathetic & unable to advocate for its best interests, the powerful in federal and state government, with their greedy corporate partners, will continue privatizing & profiteering as they please, laughing all the way to the bank.
Big insurance has diverted anger from the private health insurance sector to the government that implements programs that the private corporate sector designs and profits from. It's advantageous for the health insurance industry to foster hatred for pointy-headed government bureaucrats , driving out of people’s minds the idea that government might be an instrument of popular will,government of, by and for the people.
With Trump- Paul Ryan- Republican style ACA replacement programs, large benefits for the very rich will result. Financial Times correspondent, Martin Wolf, writes, “The tax proposals would shower huge benefits on already rich Americans such as Mr Trump,” while leaving others in the lurch, including his constituency. The reaction of the busines world reveals that Big Insurance, Big Pharma, Wall Street, the military industry, energy industries and other such "wonderful" institutions expect a very bright future".
If the general U.S. population remains passive, apathetic & unable to advocate for its best interests, the powerful in federal and state government, with their greedy corporate partners, will continue privatizing & profiteering as they please, laughing all the way to the bank.
7
Another case of the have and have nots. When your insurance is covered and paid for by taxpayers, as in the case of Congress, they have nothing to lose. Unlike the uninsured and the under-insured they may have lost everything; including their lives.
7
The national debate about health care in America has become more of a nakedly political football than any serious attempt to improve the health of the American people. To label the ACA a "complete and total disaster," as the President-elect does, is simply -- well -- idiotically mendacious on the face of it. Such demonization forecloses any potential for constructive debate on behalf of the American people.
There is no workable replacement for the ACA in sight. As this article declares, the Congressional Budget Office has estimated that 18 million Americans will lose health coverage in the first year of repeal, followed by skyrocketing insurance premiums in the following years.
Only time will verify the accuracy of these predictions, but it seems abundantly clear that chaos will follow, that it will be needless, and that it will result from the incapacity or unwillingness of our elected officials to govern for the well-being of the citizens who voted them in to office.
This is the consequence of the pass America has reached by channeling its own inner spleen, egged on by the tin drums and clashing cymbals of charlatans, where government exists for partisan advantage rather than a commitment to govern. Can we do better? It's becoming more doubtful by each election cycle.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
There is no workable replacement for the ACA in sight. As this article declares, the Congressional Budget Office has estimated that 18 million Americans will lose health coverage in the first year of repeal, followed by skyrocketing insurance premiums in the following years.
Only time will verify the accuracy of these predictions, but it seems abundantly clear that chaos will follow, that it will be needless, and that it will result from the incapacity or unwillingness of our elected officials to govern for the well-being of the citizens who voted them in to office.
This is the consequence of the pass America has reached by channeling its own inner spleen, egged on by the tin drums and clashing cymbals of charlatans, where government exists for partisan advantage rather than a commitment to govern. Can we do better? It's becoming more doubtful by each election cycle.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
5
Democrats have a lot of valid points about ACA, Climate Change, LGBT, Child care etc etc. But Hillary lost simply because she forgot that millions of Americans, blue-collar and white-collar have lost their jobs to outsourcing and Hillary promised to stay on that path while touting a 4.9% unemployment rate which anyone outside of DC knows is grossly under reported. As Biden said, you can't eat equality. Maybe the next candidate will keep an eye on jobs for Americans before everything else, that is what matters first, nothing else.
2
It's fiscally irresponsible to drop the individual mandate, yet require "insurers to provide coverage, at standard rates to any applicant. regardless of pre-existing medical conditions." The GOP might as well drop any pretense of caring about the millions of Americans affected by there obsession with gutting the ACA. Sad.
2
But, Oren, all projections are hypothetical.
And this one DOES include the current GOP plan, which is none.
And this one DOES include the current GOP plan, which is none.
1
The cynical and callous repeal of the ACA by Paul Ryan and the Republican Party should give Americans pause. How is it that the Republican Party and its soon to be President Donald Trump are working on behalf of the American people? And why is it that they have created this stand off where people who were in the ACA, some 20 million or more are suddenly cast into this state of utter insecurity and fear not knowing if they will be able to have affordable care. As if they were refugees in their own country. When does this become a human rights issue? Must we have Human Rights Watch who has declared Donald Trump the first President to be named a human rights threat add the Republican Party to their list? How hard is it to understand that the Republican Party cares not one wit for the real problems of the American people? How hard is it to understand the President-elect filling his cabinet with billionaire bankers, and billionaire oil magnates is creating a plutocracy? Those are the people to whom this Party is beholden and for whom this Party works. Not for your Mother who has recurrent breast cancer or your son with a congenital heart issue. Not only won't the Republicans drain the swamp, they are the crocodiles!
9
The GOP will repeal the ACA law out of pure spite and break their promise to replace with "something terrific", a "cheaper and better plan", a plan for everyone. They will blame budget committees, Obama, anyone/everyone other themselves all the while the ACA will be history, the healthcare system will be damaged, the economy will suffer, and people will be harmed unnecessarily. Reduce the surplus population. Alternatively the GOP could adopt a single-payer plan with the infrastructure already in place, the whole country would benefit- both in health and in the pocketbook.
3
Repeal and replace is exactly like we build the wall and they will pay later....the latter will never happen, folks.
The Russians are playing Trump on foreign policy and the Republicans are playing him on domestic policy
The Russians are playing Trump on foreign policy and the Republicans are playing him on domestic policy
9
Most people wanting the wall don't really care who pays for it. Trump will get it built and stop the flow of people and drugs coming over the border. Then we can figure out how to handle the illegals that are here now.
Why can't Amazon.com sell health insurance? They sell everything else less than others. Even with normal three day delivery, it's still plenty faster than I can get with Kaiser when I need to see a doctor.
5
@Iver Thompson:
Of course it would be cheaper. But it won't happen because the government demands its cut in the transaction. And the insurance companies now have an excuse to raise their prices - they have to deal not only with health care providers and patients, but the government as well.
Did you honestly believe that Obamacare was intended to save money for patients?
Of course it would be cheaper. But it won't happen because the government demands its cut in the transaction. And the insurance companies now have an excuse to raise their prices - they have to deal not only with health care providers and patients, but the government as well.
Did you honestly believe that Obamacare was intended to save money for patients?
Rimantas, that sounds like a messy system. It almost makes me sick.
2
I was injured at work due in 2002 due to working nonstop during the 911 and Anthrax Crisis' in 2001-2002. Your body starts failing after non stop demands and no chance for recovery. I thus end up visiting many doctors. At least one a month. Then get sent to others routinely. Due to my previous career and education along with place of employment, my long term doctors talk to me as a peer. Not a single one of the doctors I have talked to are happy about the ACA repeal. They think it is an ignorant move.
Then the conversations on Tom Price. Who several of my doctors have met and have no respect for. There terms are what does he have in common with me he is an Orthopedic Surgeon and he lives in Marietta, Ga. Then the but, he became a Politician a long time ago.
My mother in law summed that up to that one office visit of Pediatric Orthopedist Tom Price. One visit was one two many to take any of my five kids to. Even though he shared the same building as my longtime pediatrician.
Then the conversations on Tom Price. Who several of my doctors have met and have no respect for. There terms are what does he have in common with me he is an Orthopedic Surgeon and he lives in Marietta, Ga. Then the but, he became a Politician a long time ago.
My mother in law summed that up to that one office visit of Pediatric Orthopedist Tom Price. One visit was one two many to take any of my five kids to. Even though he shared the same building as my longtime pediatrician.
5
I am graced with 16 God-fearing Grandchildren, mostly 21+. There is no way that I can or would explain/justify to any of them the effort to withhold or justify others' justifications to withdraw quality health care to the impoverished. I shudder to stamp an endorsement of any 'Pro-Discontinuation' of the 'anti-ACA' bordello, and am locally humiliated by our local Legislators, and our continually faceless Congressional Senators.
14
Go ahead Donald, make my day. You do that and at least 20 million people will be ready to vote you and your sorry lot out of office so fast it'll make your head swim. What goes around comes around.
15
Give the GOP major props for bamboozling the US public. They've used the right buzzwords and phrases - thank Frank Luntz - to promote a phony picture of the ACA. And now they're going to learn first-hand of the implications of their terrible judgment.
10
And you know what? They won't care. They've got theirs; it's every man for himself.
4
The GAO didn't say how many of htem can actually afford the copay. Not nearly as may people will lose health CARE. That's what matters, not money going to the insurance companies.
1
I read comments here about the poor judgement of Trump supporters who voted against their interest. The truth is, they don't believe their reality tv star and chief will do that to them. Just yesterday, trump told the Washington Post that there's a replacement plan that provides coverage for more people at an even lower cost. He also said that the drug companies will be forced to negotiate with govt for better pricing. Did the Republican congress get the memo? Don't think so. This thing is going to go off the rails.
19
Scary anti Trump headline followed by small print qualifier :if the Republicans don't replace Obamacare (which they have promised to do). Same old bias junk from the N Y Times.
3
My retirement plan is to return home to Canada.
9
I am married to one of the millions of Americans who is uninsurable due to multiple chronic health conditions. My husband is an architect, and for 45 years his insurance was available through employer-provided plans. In 2013, he was laid off, a casualty of the Great Recession, and we had 18 months of COBRA coverage at high cost requiring us to cash in an IRA. By a miracle, the ACA became available just as the COBRA benefits were set to expire. Contrary to what many say about the ACA, we are extremely grateful to have such high-quality health insurance. Without this insurance, my husband would most likely be dead. It is morbidly ironic that the party that is anti-abortion is the party that wants to play God with people's lives. Perhaps Republicans would exhibit some compassion if they walked in my husband's shoes as a patient and my shoes as a caregiver. With this perspective they would understand why continued access to our silver plan that we pay for is a matter of life and death.
38
republicans are only concerned with serving their masters the 1% and now putin.
5
You have stated that your husband was an architect for 45 years.Anyone who
was an architect for 45 years would be old enough to qualify for Medicare.
Why woudn't your husband be insured under Medicare ?
was an architect for 45 years would be old enough to qualify for Medicare.
Why woudn't your husband be insured under Medicare ?
2
Look for Republican plan that encourages sick Americans to die quickly in order to cut healthcare costs.
15
The Republicans never had anything against the ACA when it was Romneycare, or when it was developed by the Heritage Foundation. They were only against it because it became Obama's plan, and he might get credit for doing good.
Now it seems that most people like all the provisions of the act, and accept that people are entitled to health insurance, which is new since Obamacare came into being. They just don't want to pay for their insurance- even if it is less than before the ACA.
I have a suggestion: Trump should introduce a single payer plan, call it the Trump-Spence Care plan. Trump only cares if he gets his name on something- buildings, etc.- and here is a big chance. If Spence's name is on it, the Republicans could support it. The Democrats would go along with it because they are generally more concerned with helping people than in being ideologues and with making money for drug companies and insurance companies (well, most of them). We wouldn't be bleeding money to the insurance companies and could get health care rates closer to our European counterparts.
And everyone could go to the doctor.
Now it seems that most people like all the provisions of the act, and accept that people are entitled to health insurance, which is new since Obamacare came into being. They just don't want to pay for their insurance- even if it is less than before the ACA.
I have a suggestion: Trump should introduce a single payer plan, call it the Trump-Spence Care plan. Trump only cares if he gets his name on something- buildings, etc.- and here is a big chance. If Spence's name is on it, the Republicans could support it. The Democrats would go along with it because they are generally more concerned with helping people than in being ideologues and with making money for drug companies and insurance companies (well, most of them). We wouldn't be bleeding money to the insurance companies and could get health care rates closer to our European counterparts.
And everyone could go to the doctor.
11
D. Trump needs a good doctor as he seems to have some Alzheimer symptoms: constant anger, paranoia, memory loss (Carrier jobs). Perhaps his sexual fixation is part of this problem.
3
My chronically ill father who has cold urticaria (an allergy to the cold) stood for over two hours on a freezing afternoon with a sign saying ACA SAVES MY LIFE at Bernie Sander's #OurFirstStand Rally.
That's longer than the gop has ever stood for anything.
Chant with me! HEALTHCARE IS A HUMAN RIGHT!!!
That's longer than the gop has ever stood for anything.
Chant with me! HEALTHCARE IS A HUMAN RIGHT!!!
19
Healthcare is a human right !
I suffer from Chronic Auto-Immune Urticaria,so I understand how your
father suffered for his beliefs,and am duly impressed .Please thank him on my behalf.
I suffer from Chronic Auto-Immune Urticaria,so I understand how your
father suffered for his beliefs,and am duly impressed .Please thank him on my behalf.
7
In a civilized society healthcare is a human right.
4
If the idiots who are about to come into power repeal the ACA the people who lose their insurance, and others, should begin protests in front of the White House and Trump Towers in N.Y. Repealing will cost the government and people of the U.S. much money but the republicans don't care and will make more money themselves/
3
Come on 2018 everybody is interested now.
4
Yes, repeal the ACA and reform Medicare. I and my husband spent many years building our education, jobs, carriers. Our parents were poor. The result, we earn a lot now and about to retire. Over the years, we contributed to Social Security a lot. I am not sure I understand why people who didnt even bother to improve their skills level and frankly took jobs from school kids have you recently been at Wal-Mart?) and as the result of their low salary contributed a little to SS, should be getting the full benefits like us? There is something completely anti-american in this. I am sure you wont publish this comment as NYT is a proponent of censorship like Putin.
6
Likely because illness and accidents don't care how hard someone worked or not. Likely because treating a catastrophic or a chronic condition can easily bankrupt even a hard-working, high-earning household. Likely because hard, very important, often skilled work is not always a path to high wealth in our society (see: teacher, nurse, police officer). Likely because a society does not function if everyone has those high-skilled, high-paying jobs - I assume your office has a janitor to keep it clean? That you expect someone to pick you food, and to drive it to the grocery store, and to construct that grocery store, and to be there to ring you up in the store? But mostly because "hard work" and "gaining skills" have literally nothing to do with whether you get cancer or not.
12
"I am not sure I understand why people who didnt even bother to improve their skills level and frankly took jobs from school kids have you recently been at Wal-Mart?) and as the result of their low salary contributed a little to SS, should be getting the full benefits like us?"
I am sure that you don't understand why those people working at Walmart are entitled to their Social Security benefits - the ones they paid into just as you and I did. I am also sure that you don't understand how Social Security works, and that it has nothing at all to do with the Affordable Care Act.
I am sure that you don't understand why those people working at Walmart are entitled to their Social Security benefits - the ones they paid into just as you and I did. I am also sure that you don't understand how Social Security works, and that it has nothing at all to do with the Affordable Care Act.
8
Natasha: All people do not get the same amount of Social Security! It depends how much you pay in. No one gets "full" benefits like you, unless they paid in as much as you did. As for health care, many people, like myself, believe it is a right, and not a privilege. A civilized, compassionate, moral nation provides the same health care for all of its' citizens. If you happen to be rich, well, then, you can buy EXTRA health care for yourself. Incidentally, a lot of people cannot improve their job skills, as they cannot afford to go to college, or to pay for any further training after public schools. Some people have to go out to work after high school (or even before) BECAUSE THEY HAVE NO CHOICE. When the kids are in school all-day, should Wal-Mart have no employees?????
8
No worry. 50% of the population is Democrat. That's a large enough group for them to form their own insurance coop. It will be interesting to see how Dems treat land whales, smokers, illicit drug user, etc.. when Dem's own money is at stake.
2
"Land whales, smokers, illicit drug users"...I think most of those are Trump voters, not Democrats.
4
yeah, it was called Mass Care, Romney invented it & it worked. We Dems will keep our money in our blue states, do our own healthcare market.
3
A good President would say to Congress, "I won't sign the ObamaCare repeal until you send me a workable replacement." Anything else is lying politics.
37
Where is this good President you see on the horizon? All we got in sight are GOP turkeys with nary a brain or plan to spare. How in the world except by foreign intrigue did America come to be duped by these blundering, substandard, willful incompetents?
3
If Hatch considers this scenario hypothetical, why doesn't he say what he and his Republican colleagues intend to do to prevent this calamity. The answer is obvious - they have no idea what they are going to do. They've had decades to work on this issue. They could have worked on ACA. They can work on it now.
All they are willing to do is play with our health care as a political football. If it doesn't keep them in power, it doesn't matter. They are vindictive. They are selfish. They are despicable beyond belief.
All they are willing to do is play with our health care as a political football. If it doesn't keep them in power, it doesn't matter. They are vindictive. They are selfish. They are despicable beyond belief.
32
Wow, 54,000,000 loose their health insurance in three (3) years compliments of the Republicans in Congress = I wonder how they will vote in the 2018 Mid-Term elections after watching family members get sick and some die complements of the Congressional Republicans.
I see this as 54,000,000 more votes for Democrat Congressional Candidates!
I see this as 54,000,000 more votes for Democrat Congressional Candidates!
24
Bill, you place far too much faith on the wisdom of the American voter.
4
Before the ACA, the only options available to me in New York as a self-employed person were catastrophic coverage (for about $200/month) or a plan with a monthly premium about twice my rent that I could not afford. I relied on a subsidy from the city for my prescriptions, which were not covered under my plan. Under the ACA with the subsidy, I have had plans anywhere from $20/month to $100/month with comprehensive coverage. When I lived in California prior to New York and the ACA, I was rejected from purchasing insurance due to a pre-existing condition (high cholesterol controlled through medication) while being otherwise healthy and fit at 25 years old. Before the ACA, the health insurance industry was inaccessible due to either financial or health reasons. The ACA changed everything. It is not perfect, but today I can go see a doctor without too much hassle or stress. Five years ago, that was not the case.
46
I don't understand why there hasn't been a movement to repeal the health care, for which the US taxpayer pays, of representatives and senators.
58
Exactly! GOP Sen. Lamar Alexander, for example, can get a voucher and then get covered in Tennessee?
4
Very simple - ACA is broken and can't be fixed without starting over. Even Bill Clinton called it "the craziest thing in the world".
1
This is not the fault of the Republicans. They made clear who they are. It is the fault of every dolt who voted third party or stayed home because they were too pure to vote for Clinton.
55
Why don't we give Obamacare to Democrats and Trumpcare to Republicans? Then everyone should be happy.
28
Fine - just let the Democrats pay for Obamacare and not make the Republicans pay for it.
1
Wait for it....the tweet about the "sad" CBO.
11
Isn't the CBO also failing?
1
Reality time: Millions of people were grossly harmed by ACA, and were forced to drop medical insurance. ACA tripled premiums for some of us. It destroyed the individual insurance market harming self-employed and small business. An ACA offer for a couple earning $65,000 may be over $24,000 annually with a deductible of $12,500. This is public information available from the Kaiser Foundation Calculator.
ACA must be changed. There is no choice.
ACA must be changed. There is no choice.
10
Just want to point out that the ACA did not cause premiums to rise - insurance companies caused premiums to rise - that's their job. Since Republicans stripped from the ACA the teeth that would have prevented premiums from taking egregious leaps, that's exactly what happened. It's convenient to blame the signers of the bill. But pay now, pay later - you will pay for your health insurance. We taxpayers were paying for those without insurance for years, exorbitantly so. Those costs have gone down with the ACA. I'm happy to have my share of my taxes go to "the general welfare" of the country. But insurance companies are your bête noir, not the ACA.
4
Whatever the average, dollar "value" of the health insurance packages our so-called "representatives" in Congress get? Each and every American -- the EMPLOYERS of the so-called "representatives" -- should get that average for a subsidy to help US pay for our health care? Would that be unreasonable?
Change it where it needs to but don't repeal it.
1
I'm no big fan of Trump, but I hope he keeps pushing Republican Senators and Representatives to stop dragging their feet and have a replacement bill in place right after the repeal. Obamacare may not be perfect, like the pothole-scarred road in front of my house, but that's not enough of an excuse to completely strip it away with no plan for the future. I can just picture a politician with a jackhammer saying, "Don't worry! We'll have a new replacement road in place sometime in the future. Maybe eighteen, twenty-four months from now. You don't need to go anywhere until then, right?"
14
The GOP's main goal here is to kill the ACA and all the benefits it has brought. There will be no replacement because the GOP cannot agree on anything within their own party, and their insistence to replace in parallel with the repeal is a ruse. Americans need to demand to see what the replacement is before any repeal moves forward. Otherwise, it's bait and switch with the GOP.
12
Not to worry: In the alternate reality known as GOP-land, only the dregs of society will be affected. This is nothing more than incidental collateral damage.
10
The original Republican opposition to health care reform was the
"Keep America Sick" program --- out of Kentucky and Ohio.
More in line with current thought we now have "Make America Sick Again".
I'm sure of the usefulness of being insightful and deep about
this simple rabidity.
"Keep America Sick" program --- out of Kentucky and Ohio.
More in line with current thought we now have "Make America Sick Again".
I'm sure of the usefulness of being insightful and deep about
this simple rabidity.
9
Don't panic, yet. The affordable care act health plans are not very good. It is painfully obvious that we need Universal health care for everyone, not just those over 65. We should demand Medicare for all. We have failed as a nation without it.
19
You really think the Republicans would take a stance for universal coverage when it would virtually eliminate the health insurance business sector, and the accompanying reduction in campaign contributions?
I would call that wishful thinking. Even the prospect of "a failed nation" won't serve as a deterrent to those who believe big government is a bad thing.
I would call that wishful thinking. Even the prospect of "a failed nation" won't serve as a deterrent to those who believe big government is a bad thing.
4
ObamaCare passed 60-39 and Republics intend to repeal it with a 51-49 vote. Seems fair to them.
15
because there is no such thing anymore as a bipartisan democrat. toe the line, toe the line. we are always right and you are always wrong. there is no middle ground. welcome to 21st century America and the fall of democracy. brought to you by your local hard-headed always right and politically correct democrats
First and foremost,
the study does not include the impacts of the Republic Party replacement plan counters the "negative" effects of the repeal of the Heritage Foundation Medical Care plan.
The replacement plan should be so apparent.
After 6.5 years of votes to repeal the Romney style care system,
Ryan and McConnell have a finely crafted total replacement plan ready to go.
Second:
This finely tuned profit from pain, suffering, and heartbreak plan is ready for passage NOW!!!
Just like T=Rex's secret plan to obliterate IsIs.
the study does not include the impacts of the Republic Party replacement plan counters the "negative" effects of the repeal of the Heritage Foundation Medical Care plan.
The replacement plan should be so apparent.
After 6.5 years of votes to repeal the Romney style care system,
Ryan and McConnell have a finely crafted total replacement plan ready to go.
Second:
This finely tuned profit from pain, suffering, and heartbreak plan is ready for passage NOW!!!
Just like T=Rex's secret plan to obliterate IsIs.
3
If Republicans haven't come up with anything after saying they'll repeal/replace ACA for past six years (with what should have been a fast track push after Trump won), there's little chance they'll come up with anything decent. This is the first lie from the new administration that shows they won't be helping the middle class. It's also the first show of significant division within the GOP.
12
Who many funerals will the repeal of the ACA cause?
How much suffering?
How many disabled?
How many children will lose their parents?
How many parents will lose their children?
How many rural hospitals will close?
How many people will wait hours and hours to get into an ER?
How many people will lose their homes?
Just for a few how many's........
How much suffering?
How many disabled?
How many children will lose their parents?
How many parents will lose their children?
How many rural hospitals will close?
How many people will wait hours and hours to get into an ER?
How many people will lose their homes?
Just for a few how many's........
18
The GOP is handing the Democrats an issue that even they might be able to win with in 2020.
13
Without some sort of coercion, subsidy, or both, there is no market for insurance. That is the headline. It is well proven, accepted by actuaries, and the reason is simple.
Yet we do not read it. Insread, we read 20 million will lose their insurance. Why? With so much ignorance a out the product and the market, it is no wonder opponents roll over it. The media have done a poor job of explaining.
Expectations are badly set as well. The per-capita expenditure on health care in the U.S. is about $10,000. Yet when premiums reflect that, people howl and scream and irrationally curse the ACA. Insurance doesn't lower the cost of health care, folks. It only turns a wildly varying and unpredictable number to one that varies little, and is quite predictable. That's what insurance is for.
Again, the media have done a poor job of explaining. Otherwise, not a living soul would believe selling insurance across state lines, or futzing with liability law, would fix anything.
Yet we do not read it. Insread, we read 20 million will lose their insurance. Why? With so much ignorance a out the product and the market, it is no wonder opponents roll over it. The media have done a poor job of explaining.
Expectations are badly set as well. The per-capita expenditure on health care in the U.S. is about $10,000. Yet when premiums reflect that, people howl and scream and irrationally curse the ACA. Insurance doesn't lower the cost of health care, folks. It only turns a wildly varying and unpredictable number to one that varies little, and is quite predictable. That's what insurance is for.
Again, the media have done a poor job of explaining. Otherwise, not a living soul would believe selling insurance across state lines, or futzing with liability law, would fix anything.
2
At least since Roe V Wade, Republicans have been on a moral high road promoting the right to life in the womb. Unfortunately, some of us had the audacity to be born and from that point on, Republicans could not care less now promoting the notion you have only as much life as you can afford and never on their dollar.
5
Any thinking person knows the repub plan when they finally reveal it will be garbage.
Yes, they'll claim everyone will be offered the opportunity to purchase coverage, but no one except the rich will be able to actually afford a plan that provides meaningful coverage.
So they'll offer to the minions a low cost but bogus plan with exorbitant deductibles, a million exceptions and loopholes and that provides little to no actual medical care as we would define it in the real world.
And so called medical savings plans and tax credits to help pay premiums are meaningless to poor and even middle class Americans, just trying to get by each week. These help only the upper middle classes which usually have employer plans, and the elites don't need them at all. They're another scam for those struggling.
And their so called risk pools that will supposedly cover people with pre-existing conditions won't work because these require massive funding with tax dollars, and they've said they won't but pay for a fraction of the actual funding these pools require to actually work.
The people are free of ethics and morality, welcome to trump's world. There is no workable replacement coming. Stay healthy or die.
Yes, they'll claim everyone will be offered the opportunity to purchase coverage, but no one except the rich will be able to actually afford a plan that provides meaningful coverage.
So they'll offer to the minions a low cost but bogus plan with exorbitant deductibles, a million exceptions and loopholes and that provides little to no actual medical care as we would define it in the real world.
And so called medical savings plans and tax credits to help pay premiums are meaningless to poor and even middle class Americans, just trying to get by each week. These help only the upper middle classes which usually have employer plans, and the elites don't need them at all. They're another scam for those struggling.
And their so called risk pools that will supposedly cover people with pre-existing conditions won't work because these require massive funding with tax dollars, and they've said they won't but pay for a fraction of the actual funding these pools require to actually work.
The people are free of ethics and morality, welcome to trump's world. There is no workable replacement coming. Stay healthy or die.
7
The majority of us are one accident/terminal illness/chronic illness away from being plunged into bankruptcy by a medical problem. We need universal insurance so that all of us are covered and businesses are not burdened by the requirement of providing health insurance (this should please the GOP).
It doesn't matter which side of the political divide you are we all end up paying for a bloated, inefficient system if each state has haphazard coverage or no coverage.
It doesn't matter which side of the political divide you are we all end up paying for a bloated, inefficient system if each state has haphazard coverage or no coverage.
8
I'm wondering, is this the same CBO who told us PPACA wouldn't increase the debt or deficit?
1
Cite your sources please.
I'll wait.
I'll wait.
The ideology of central economic planning has proven to be catastrophic. It left over a hundred million dead in the Twentieth century. There is simply no person or groups of people who can posses enough knowledge to direct the actions of hundreds of millions of people. No matter the intentions of anyone, it is the "Path to serfdom".
Rain could cause the death of millions of people tomorrow...but it won't...
1
Bob, Did you say "reign"? I can see us moving towards that.
1
Why, oh why aren't we all covered in the same way Paul Ryan and his ilk are? Comprehensively, without out of pocket expenses, for life.
19
Because Americans haven't demanded a subsidy, equal to the average cost of the Cadillac Plans our so-called "representatives" have? Those guys. The people we whose paychecks we sign ... Up is down in America. Until Americans turn the tide.
More to the point, why aren't we covered the same way that Nancy Pelosi is covered. The Democrats were in the majority when they gave Congress a better deal that Congress gave the rest of us.
2
The voters need to demand it!
1
I believe Trump may provide Universal Healthcare via a Single-Payer System. Sounds ludicrous, but there are reasons to think it might happen.
Trump is wild, and wildly unpredictable, by design. He's supported universal healthcare in the past. He has repeatedly said things to the effect that, "We're going to have the best healthcare and the cheapest and everyone will be covered," and "We'll keep the best parts of Obamacare." If he's thinking straight, that means a single-payer system.
Trump isn't an ideologue. He's a businessman, and a pragmatist, and really a minor genius. If anyone, especially his opponents, has not read his 1987 book, they should keep their mouths closed, because he describes exactly how he won the Presidency. Even though many of his positions are morally troubling, especially about the environment, he does care about America, in his own, often mixed-up way, yes -- but more than someone like Mrs. Clinton ever could.
When the Democrats take back Congress in 2 years, Trump will make it happen. You heard it here first.
Trump is wild, and wildly unpredictable, by design. He's supported universal healthcare in the past. He has repeatedly said things to the effect that, "We're going to have the best healthcare and the cheapest and everyone will be covered," and "We'll keep the best parts of Obamacare." If he's thinking straight, that means a single-payer system.
Trump isn't an ideologue. He's a businessman, and a pragmatist, and really a minor genius. If anyone, especially his opponents, has not read his 1987 book, they should keep their mouths closed, because he describes exactly how he won the Presidency. Even though many of his positions are morally troubling, especially about the environment, he does care about America, in his own, often mixed-up way, yes -- but more than someone like Mrs. Clinton ever could.
When the Democrats take back Congress in 2 years, Trump will make it happen. You heard it here first.
2
I was considering your point but you lost me at minor genius.
4
Keith, Perhaps. But a more likely scenario is that after fights between Trump and the Republican Congress, everything will crash. This would set things up for a movement towards a single-payer system, most likely via an extension of Medicare.
2
Let's see if this gets printed. My health insurance premium has gone up from 394 per month with 3000 deductible in 2015 to 797 per month with a 6500 deductible . You tell me how that is affordable? And yes this is a individual bronze policy not a family plan.
7
Why not speak with the Public Relations spokesperson of the insurance company that administers your plan. They raised your rates, not the government.
1
Subsidies?
1
Who is your provider and how do/did they justify a doubling of your rate? Please be specific? You're in Maryland? Am affluent state that, surely, has many providers on your exchange? And this is the "best" you could find. Tell us more? Health care is more expensive and there is less choice, in Maryland, compared to where I live? My wife's premium went from just under $500 to around $529. What's so bad about Maryland?
1
Alas, we are hurtling into the Age of Nefarious.
7
The sky is falling, Trump is president, everyone will die, nothing will be free, nothing will be subsidized, the devil has arrived, people will die in the streets and America is doomed. I came from a poor family, went to college, studied and am no longer poor and pay for my own health insurance. Others should do the same.
2
Congratulations, Larry! You're one of the Enlightened Ones. May I ask - Do you have full use of your limbs, can you see out of both eyes, are you not suffering any ill-effects since birth, possibly wearing white skin, no mental health issues, healthy male with no pre-existing conditions that disqualify you for coverage because policy restriction, etc.? I know quite a few people who must answer no to just one of the above and without the ACA, have no real future, may never enjoy a life free from the anxiety of their illness.
Have a good day!
Have a good day!
1
Others are trying to do the same but cannot because before the ACA - no matter how hard you work - you could be denied healthcare if you have a pre existing condition. Period. Please just enjoy your own successes without resenting others. I'm praying for you.
That's good you pay for your own insurance. Are you worried about the drying up of the individual insurance market that is predicted or having a health issue and being moved into a high risk pool?
1
The GOP hasn't done anything to help the middle or poor classes for decades. Obstruction is not work. It's a dereliction of doing work. So how can they figure out a complex health care policy if they haven't exercised their brains? They can't. They don't have the intellect to make the ACA better.
8
Has everybody forgotten what health is about? You want sick people doing your accounts because they can't pay for meds? You want people going bankrupt for minor procedures which the rest of the Western world gets under subsidy? The GOP and corporate hostility to public health care has always been insane, and it's getting worse.
12
What possible reason could Republicans have for depriving so many millions of their genuine access to decent and affordable healthcare?
The Republican's immoral and inhumane repeal of the ACA has nothing to do with whether the Act works well, needs tinkering, could be improved, etc. That ship sailed for the past 7 years-- no proposals whatsoever from Republicans to improve the Act.
The repeal, on a political level, is simple pandering to an uninformed and bitter base who believe Americans helping each other gives too much to "others" and not enough to them. It's paying for "lazy" folk, or those of color, or those horrible "welfare queens"-- in other words, helping others because in the end it will help you, no matter that it might be the right thing to do, feels like you're getting the short end of the stick. For these people, the undeserving/ lazy/ minorities take too big a piece of their pie.
But the real reason, as usual, follows the money. The repeal of the ACA will give the very wealthiest Americans quite substantial tax breaks. If we return to the good ole' pre-ACA days, insurance and big Pharma profits will skyrocket at the expense of Americans' health and wallets. CEO income will soar. Donors will be happy. All Americans will suffer. Those for whom the ACA was created will suffer the most.
And don't let them confuse you with "access for all" and "affordable health insurance for all". There's a big difference, and access is basically meaningless in Price's plan.
The Republican's immoral and inhumane repeal of the ACA has nothing to do with whether the Act works well, needs tinkering, could be improved, etc. That ship sailed for the past 7 years-- no proposals whatsoever from Republicans to improve the Act.
The repeal, on a political level, is simple pandering to an uninformed and bitter base who believe Americans helping each other gives too much to "others" and not enough to them. It's paying for "lazy" folk, or those of color, or those horrible "welfare queens"-- in other words, helping others because in the end it will help you, no matter that it might be the right thing to do, feels like you're getting the short end of the stick. For these people, the undeserving/ lazy/ minorities take too big a piece of their pie.
But the real reason, as usual, follows the money. The repeal of the ACA will give the very wealthiest Americans quite substantial tax breaks. If we return to the good ole' pre-ACA days, insurance and big Pharma profits will skyrocket at the expense of Americans' health and wallets. CEO income will soar. Donors will be happy. All Americans will suffer. Those for whom the ACA was created will suffer the most.
And don't let them confuse you with "access for all" and "affordable health insurance for all". There's a big difference, and access is basically meaningless in Price's plan.
14
After an eight year leave of absence, the Republic's are quickly approaching a confrontation with reality and a sizable number of their base is about to find out why Democrats talk about people having health insurance and Republicans talk about people having "access" to health insurance.
There will be a repeal and a replacement and the used-car-salesman-in-chief and the con-men running congress will make many pronouncements about how great it is and how it will be better and cheaper - and then real people will slowly begin to find out that "access to" does not mean "having" health insurance and for those who can keep their insurance, the rate of premium increases will return to the pre-ObamaCare rates.
There will be a repeal and a replacement and the used-car-salesman-in-chief and the con-men running congress will make many pronouncements about how great it is and how it will be better and cheaper - and then real people will slowly begin to find out that "access to" does not mean "having" health insurance and for those who can keep their insurance, the rate of premium increases will return to the pre-ObamaCare rates.
9
Repeal of Obamacare is an angry hateful shortsighted idea that will ultimately bankrupt Federal, State, County, and local governments that will have to provide a multitude of care and services to deal with the uninsured that supported themselves by purchasing insurance. There will now be 18 to 32 million burdens on Governments over the next ten years.
I still cannot believe so many millions of people voted to lose their own health care. It is the result of blind rage and hatred and those who used it to gain power for their own selfish grandiosity.
I still cannot believe so many millions of people voted to lose their own health care. It is the result of blind rage and hatred and those who used it to gain power for their own selfish grandiosity.
8
I expect to shortly see a Tweet from Donald stating that the CBO is "terrible " has no credibility and is in league with the Democrats to thwart his changes. "Sad"
6
really NYT? This just goes to show how politicized every branch of government has become under Obama. Why in the world would the CBO conduct a study of something that has in no way been proposed and which is in NO WAY similar to what the Trump Admin is considering? Of course, if one were to repeal the law and do nothing but leave the preexisting conditions piece in place, one would expect the law to fall apart even more quickly than it already is.
Get over it. The ACA is a disaster - just like Obama's presidency. All talk and bluster, no intelligible results...
Get over it. The ACA is a disaster - just like Obama's presidency. All talk and bluster, no intelligible results...
3
Rkari, the CBO is not partisan. This is simply what will happen if the law is repealed. So far, the Republicans have not proposed a workable replacement that the caucus would support, but they are absolutely committed to the repeal. So it is legitimate for the CBO to show what would happen. Yes, the ACA was not a great law. It is essentially Romney's program in Mass. It relies on th insurance market which, like all markets, has weaknesses. Of course, the Republicans refused to fix the flaws in the law, wanting it to fail. So now they will have their way but any fix will cost a lot of money.
I assume you can say the above because you don't require the help that ACA provides. Walk a mile in the shoes of those whose lives it has helped or saved, then talk about disasters.
No, you're wrong. Not a disaster. Who provides your health coverage?
My sister is covered under her husband's coverage. My brother-in-law will retire in about 5 years and be covered under Medicare. At that time my sister will be 3 years shy of Medicare coverage. She has a pre-existing condition. I asked them why they were voting for Trump. My sister said Israel. My brother-in-law shrugged.
12
Well, she would probably be eligible for COBRA for a period of time. That is if it doesn't end up on the chopping block as well. It is hideously expensive though. Hope they're well fixed.
You can have good private insurance (actually covers things) or you can have cheap private insurance. You cannot have good and cheap private insurance.
3
Nobody seemed to have a problem when many middle class Americans lost their insurance because their plans were cancelled by the ACA.
5
but 18 million in one year? Nor were those few who did lose coverage due to cancellation had comparable plans available. 32 million in 10 years. Plus the expected sky-rocketing of premium costs. All for what? to make some political point? The repeal of the ACA, which is actually a conservative Republican plan conceived by conservative think tanks, will cause catastrophic pain throughout out the middle classes in lost coverage and cost of coverage. Employers will up the percentage of premium payments required by employees and all because of mis-information echoed through Fox News, conservative blogs and mindlessly echoed from the deplorable angry white people of the tea parties. Well, enjoy yourselves, and we will all eat the bitter fruit together when you see what you've actually done. Because the people screaming the most for repeal will be those in office that don't have to worry about insurance, and the low-information voters that probably don't even understand that the insurance they now have is due to the ACA and will be standing there dumbfounded when they find they don't have insurance any more and the cost of coverage is beyond their means. Good job!
1
To M.
Perhaps you didn't read this conclusion of the study "about half of the nation’s population would be living in areas that had no insurer participating in the individual market in the first year after the repeal" "Republicans have complained bitterly about the reduction in health plan choices for consumers under the Affordable Care Act. But the effects projected by the budget office would be much more severe."
Perhaps you didn't read this conclusion of the study "about half of the nation’s population would be living in areas that had no insurer participating in the individual market in the first year after the repeal" "Republicans have complained bitterly about the reduction in health plan choices for consumers under the Affordable Care Act. But the effects projected by the budget office would be much more severe."
That's a shame, what about the millions of Americans who are trying to decide whether to make their Obamacare or car payment, and the massive premium increases? I made the mistake of spending 32 days in America last year, and got an IRS notice demanding proof of health insurance. Never though I'd live to see America get that ridiculous
5
Glad you can afford health insurance without using the ACA. I'm sure you won't be getting ill anytime, anyway. By the way, massive premium increases come from insurance companies increasing their margins, not from the ACA's provisions.
Why don't people understand that insurance companies are in charge here?
Why don't people understand that insurance companies are in charge here?
1
Then if insurance companies were not properly regulated as part of Obamacare before making the purchase of their so called products mandatory, the program was either deliberately corrupt or incompetently written.
1
No sympathy for the deplorables who voted for Marmalade Mussolini since many of them will lose their health insurance. We (e.g., Democrats, progressives, thinking people) tried to warn you but you listened to Fox News instead. So As Obama once stated "elections have consequences."
35
I'm shocked and disappointed by the misinformation being spread by the Republicans on this issue. They cynically spread rumors about 'death panels' and slapped it with the label, 'Obamacare,' clearly to remind people that this is a program our black President proposed and hope they go down together.
For all its imperfections the ACA has drastically reduced the rate of the uninsured. Before we were all paying for the 'free-riders' who show up in the emergency room uninsured.
The Republican's aren't being forthcoming in any sense of the word. Repeal and Replace or Delay is a joke. They have nothing to offer. They are hoping to Repeal and Blame the Democrats. They are depending on voter's ignorance of HSA's. When Ryan says he wants people to 'have more skin in the game' it means he expects voters will pay for more out of pocket. We will see if people having a medical emergency will be able to aggressively price-compare or go over state lines.
For all its imperfections the ACA has drastically reduced the rate of the uninsured. Before we were all paying for the 'free-riders' who show up in the emergency room uninsured.
The Republican's aren't being forthcoming in any sense of the word. Repeal and Replace or Delay is a joke. They have nothing to offer. They are hoping to Repeal and Blame the Democrats. They are depending on voter's ignorance of HSA's. When Ryan says he wants people to 'have more skin in the game' it means he expects voters will pay for more out of pocket. We will see if people having a medical emergency will be able to aggressively price-compare or go over state lines.
8
All I read in these was "without subsidies" premiums will go up. Well no kidding, we don't have a market based system, we have a taxpayer supported system which artificially keeps premiums down for certain groups while others pick up the tab either through premiums or taxes or both.
You need to look at the gross cost. Obamacare math has been based on the following:
- Year 1 Gross: $5,000 split payer $1000 per year, with $4,000 in subsidies (paid for by the taxpayers)
- Year 2 Gross: $10,000 split payer $1100 per year, with $8,900 in subsidies
Headline: "Obamacare premiums only increase 10%" meanwhile taxpayers are on the hook for a 100% increase!!!
You need to look at the gross cost. Obamacare math has been based on the following:
- Year 1 Gross: $5,000 split payer $1000 per year, with $4,000 in subsidies (paid for by the taxpayers)
- Year 2 Gross: $10,000 split payer $1100 per year, with $8,900 in subsidies
Headline: "Obamacare premiums only increase 10%" meanwhile taxpayers are on the hook for a 100% increase!!!
5
Who watered down the first version of the ACA and took the bridle out of the mouths of the insurance companies, HMOs and big Pharma? It wasn't BH Obama.
I know my insurance went way up and what they cover went way down. So sick of having to work extra hrs and extra jobs to pay for other people.
Subsides do in the short term artificially lower premiums for the subsidized group and are supported by taxes. But 1, that's not all 18 million people, and 2, its the inclusion of so many extra million Americans into the insurance market that spreads risk, and slows the growth of premium costs. Basically repeal creates the same demand for services spread across a smaller pool of paying participants. Comparing the lowering of the rate of cost increases of medical services, which has been shown with the ACA and the general but not complete stabilization effect in the growth of premiums, gives us not a bad trade-off for the increase in government spending that helps extend coverage to millions. Its not only the humane thing we should do as a society, but it also is a fiscally responsible thing in the long run. Consider the fact that when you dump 32 million people off of insurance and they lose non-catastrophic health care, they will still be served in catastrophic health crises.The costs to the health system as a whole rises rapidly as the system has to raise fees and costs to compensate for the lack of insured patients. Repealing the current system without creating something better will be a devastating blow to all but the very very wealthy who don't need it. Spreading the extra costs through tax supported subsidy is a good thing and we should think hard before we just dump it because Fox News says it bad.
It took President Obama's administration and a 60 - 40 majority in the Senate to save this country from a depression. It took these numbers to give us a rational beginning for universal health care. I guess eight years is a lifetime in political years for Americans to forget where we were. We were so acccepting of "pre-existing condition" as a legitimate excuse by insurance companies to deny health coverage that we forgot how hard it was to eliminate it as legitimate. Well I guess the job that the Republicans did to get us back to a Republican Congress and President will also allow them to make it legitimate again. This time however, don't expect history to repeat itself. For many of us, we may never be able to acheive in our lifetimes a similar set of circumstances to allow a healthcare system that will protect the most vulnerable among us.
14
I'd love to know how many of the 18,000,000 people losing their insurance either didn't bother to vote or voted for DT. Since it doesn't affect me, I have no iron in the fire, but the past year has certainly caused me to realize how widespread 'naive', 'ignorant' and 'lazy' are. I'm just going to sit back and watch the carnival. Sad that some folks are going to die, but when only 1/4 of the voting population are 'awake' to a threat, what can one expect?
11
An old high school friend who happens to be both a Trump supporter and is currently covered by Medicaid thanks to the ACA had a heart attack last week at the age of 47. If he had not been covered by Medicaid he would NOT have gone to the hospital to see why his chest and back were hurting. In other words he would be dead now.
Personally I am a small business owner and can buy reasonably priced individual insurance thanks to the ACA which has helped my business grow all while paying more for my coverage each year as my profits increase.
If republicans repeal the ACA it will likely end my business and mean firing my two employees.
This action on the republican's part will cause widespread devastation to the individual healthcare market eliminating thousands of small business startups not to mention the scores of people who will die every year due to not having health care access.
Personally I am a small business owner and can buy reasonably priced individual insurance thanks to the ACA which has helped my business grow all while paying more for my coverage each year as my profits increase.
If republicans repeal the ACA it will likely end my business and mean firing my two employees.
This action on the republican's part will cause widespread devastation to the individual healthcare market eliminating thousands of small business startups not to mention the scores of people who will die every year due to not having health care access.
27
Insured or not in America you cannot deny someone medical treatment.
All your friend had to do was go to any hospital. Chest pain gets priority. They are required to treat no matter what. No matter what the complaint. No matter what the financial status.
All your friend had to do was go to any hospital. Chest pain gets priority. They are required to treat no matter what. No matter what the complaint. No matter what the financial status.
1
Why do the deplorables and Republican'ts hate America so much as per their actions not words?! Why do the masochistic sadistic authoritarian heartless Republican'ts want to intentionally hurt others so much?!
7
Thank you Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell for threatening to take away health insurance from 18 million people and to cause premiums to double for purely partisan purposes.Moreover, you have revealed yourselves as depraved, venal men bend on destroying President Obama's legacy, for what i can only assume was for racial reasons. I am confident the people who voted for Donald Trump had no idea that the Republican party would destroy in its entirety the social safety net that keeps millions of families afloat. They heard Trump condemn Obamacare ( Heritage Foundation care in reality ) , but assumed it was more of his reality television persona locker room talk. Now thanks to the two of you, and your Republican colleagues, they will get to reap what they sowed.
12
Trump and the wrecking ball Republicans have just started. If blue collar workers think times were rough in Obama World wait till Trump and the right wing gets finished with them. Next on the agenda privatizing Medicare and Social Security. And when these same individuals have lost nearly everything, they will still be pulling that Republican lever. As Trump said; he loves the uneducated. Truly a clueless block of voters.
16
If you are injured when you are hit by a truck running a red light, why should you pay more?
You health insurance does not pay anything., The truck driver liability pays all medical bills and more.
If you are born with a congenital problem why should you be charged a higher premium?
If your mother has coverage when you are born, you were always covered. They will have to pay extra for dependent coverage.
If your genetics predispose you to breast cancer is it your fault?
If you have insurance and develop breast cancer, you were always covered. That is what insurance is for.
If you live to be 90 should you pay more for Medicare?
Medicare is insurance. The premiums take into account someone living to 90 as well as people who die before they are eligible and never collect.
You health insurance does not pay anything., The truck driver liability pays all medical bills and more.
If you are born with a congenital problem why should you be charged a higher premium?
If your mother has coverage when you are born, you were always covered. They will have to pay extra for dependent coverage.
If your genetics predispose you to breast cancer is it your fault?
If you have insurance and develop breast cancer, you were always covered. That is what insurance is for.
If you live to be 90 should you pay more for Medicare?
Medicare is insurance. The premiums take into account someone living to 90 as well as people who die before they are eligible and never collect.
2
Exactly right, TO!
If it is not broken, why fixing it?
6
Because Repubs hate government programs on principle.
Making America great again, act one.
24
The GOP Congress need to see the consequences of their anti-health actions.
Emergency? Call Congress, not 911.
No insurance? Mail Congress the bills, don't pay them.
Abortions made illegal by their "small" (enough to fit in a woman's uterus) government? Have one anyway, and mail Congress *that* too.
Emergency? Call Congress, not 911.
No insurance? Mail Congress the bills, don't pay them.
Abortions made illegal by their "small" (enough to fit in a woman's uterus) government? Have one anyway, and mail Congress *that* too.
24
It is obvious that the Republican Congress and our new President don't care if 18 million are stripped of their health care coverage. We knew that 8 years ago.
32
What keeps the cost up in the US is that, by law, we are not allowed to negotiate drug prices. Now, what does that tell you about the law makers who, by the way, pretend to represent us? Until people stop voting for this two party corporate pool of flunkies, nothing will change. They're depending on people and continued foolishness.
27
The GOP fought against allowing drug price negotiations, not the Dems. Let's get that straight right now.
2
Mike, it is only one party that has been, and continues to, destroy the United States of America. Guess which one.
1
Well, let's see here: When the Dems had control of both houses, they could have done something about many things, including a public option, but guess what: It was not even on the table. I prefer the Dems to the Republicans but for the most part, at the end of the day, both groups are hand maidens for the corporate elites and the laws they pass show that this is the case. So at the end of the day, what difference does it make if you're bit by a rattle snake or by a cobra. Both are poison and the venom will kill. Time to look beyond this. Each time we vote in someone, we end up with lip service, and laws that work for the few at the expense of the many. That game has been played by BOTH parties.
1
!8 million to lose health insurance if Obamacare is repealed. Did the Trump voters consider this, a very important issue of life and death? Obviously not!!
36
People somehow lived before Obamacare.
2
They probably will next time if they live to see that day.
18 million people who are paying nothing or very little for their insurance. Trump voters were considering the money they save so that they can actually pay for their own medical bills.
1
“Republicans cautioned that the report painted only part of the picture — the impact of a fast repeal without the Republican replacement”…….. how moronic. The CBO numbers are probably more than correct or better yet underestimated because the Republicans have no real substantive plan.
Should the ACA repeal succeed without a replacement, the millions left out in the cold having no health care insurance can thank the GOP. What a disgrace
Should the ACA repeal succeed without a replacement, the millions left out in the cold having no health care insurance can thank the GOP. What a disgrace
29
And thank them they will, because Trump made it a beautiful thing.
Here is the Republican playbook:
1) repeal the ACA. People have been conditioned to think of it as abhorrent (for all the wrong reasons), and Trump will feed his supporters the red meat they crave
2) then gut Medicaid by creating block grants to States with no provision if more people apply, costs go up, technology advances, etc. The inevitable result: a program that fails to deliver even a modicum of care. But since many people view Medicaid as a giveaway to the Other, who will complain?
3) next, Medicare. Ryan and Price want vouchers, which will fall further and further behind providing adequate funding for now private insurers. Who knows about restoring lifetime caps, adverse ratings for pre-existing conditions, high deductibles, etc. There will probably be a plethora of choices for the rich who can afford the best in the now privatized Medicare, and there won't be any need for Death Panels for the poor elderly, since they will die of neglect
4) finally, the brass ring Ryan and his sidekicks are reaching for: destroy Social Security. Now, it provides income to all people above a certain age. But death by a thousand cuts can be accomplished by capping benefits at a low level, getting ride of cost of living increases, and means testing. That way, it will become a program for the poor, and the rich will make adjustments.
The moral of the story: everyone should stick together to defend the whole package. We must hang together or we will surely hang separately.
1) repeal the ACA. People have been conditioned to think of it as abhorrent (for all the wrong reasons), and Trump will feed his supporters the red meat they crave
2) then gut Medicaid by creating block grants to States with no provision if more people apply, costs go up, technology advances, etc. The inevitable result: a program that fails to deliver even a modicum of care. But since many people view Medicaid as a giveaway to the Other, who will complain?
3) next, Medicare. Ryan and Price want vouchers, which will fall further and further behind providing adequate funding for now private insurers. Who knows about restoring lifetime caps, adverse ratings for pre-existing conditions, high deductibles, etc. There will probably be a plethora of choices for the rich who can afford the best in the now privatized Medicare, and there won't be any need for Death Panels for the poor elderly, since they will die of neglect
4) finally, the brass ring Ryan and his sidekicks are reaching for: destroy Social Security. Now, it provides income to all people above a certain age. But death by a thousand cuts can be accomplished by capping benefits at a low level, getting ride of cost of living increases, and means testing. That way, it will become a program for the poor, and the rich will make adjustments.
The moral of the story: everyone should stick together to defend the whole package. We must hang together or we will surely hang separately.
145
Excellent comment Patricia CT. But regarding getting rid of SS cost of living increases, they are already virtually nil. Nothing for 2016 and a paltry .3% (that's 3 tenths, not 3) for 2017.
26
Patricia I think you nailed it. People from Connecticut are pretty wise.
1
I think the idea is to allow "undesirables"--whomever that is--to die and thus, cut costs so that larger tax breaks can be provided to billionaires.
1
Hey, it's going to be way better and cheaper than Obamacare..and Mexico's going to pay for it!
38
This is a crime. Shame on the Republicans and shame on Trump.
21
ACA is a crime. Shame on the Democrats and shame on Obama.
1
I seem to remember a lot of firm statements from the CBO about ACA over the years that have turned out to be completely wrong. At least they're consistent.
10
From CNN: "Republicans have long slammed Obamacare, saying its high premiums and deductibles leave enrollees feeling like the don't have insurance. They have vowed to lower the cost, primarily by lifting Obamacare's insurance regulations that require carriers to provide comprehensive benefits."
Let me get this straight... Republicans say that we will be paying lower premiums for insurance that does not have comprehensive benefits. But they are slamming Obamacare because some enrollees "feel" like they don't have insurance... What, what? With the Republican's plan, these enrollees will not only be "feeling" like they don't have insurance, they won't actually be "getting" any insurance!
As a self employed person, I have great health insurance coverage through the ACA and and I have had peace of mind knowing that I won't go bankrupt paying the outrageous premiums that I had before the ACA.
Paul Ryan went apoplectic over the president elect's statement that "We will have insurance for everybody!" When questioned about this Ryan said that, actually, people will have "access" to health insurance... so, I guess, if you can afford it you'll have "access" but if you can't afford it... oh well!
Sean Spicer tried to clarify the president-elect’s position on health care, noting that when Trump said "everyone would have health insurance, it was more a figure of speech than a literal promise."
I am so done with the president-elect’s "figures of speech."
Let me get this straight... Republicans say that we will be paying lower premiums for insurance that does not have comprehensive benefits. But they are slamming Obamacare because some enrollees "feel" like they don't have insurance... What, what? With the Republican's plan, these enrollees will not only be "feeling" like they don't have insurance, they won't actually be "getting" any insurance!
As a self employed person, I have great health insurance coverage through the ACA and and I have had peace of mind knowing that I won't go bankrupt paying the outrageous premiums that I had before the ACA.
Paul Ryan went apoplectic over the president elect's statement that "We will have insurance for everybody!" When questioned about this Ryan said that, actually, people will have "access" to health insurance... so, I guess, if you can afford it you'll have "access" but if you can't afford it... oh well!
Sean Spicer tried to clarify the president-elect’s position on health care, noting that when Trump said "everyone would have health insurance, it was more a figure of speech than a literal promise."
I am so done with the president-elect’s "figures of speech."
286
To quote someone-- Trump's supporters took him seriously but not literally. His opponents took him literally but not seriously. Seems to fit here.
1
Just listen to his heart! Hahaha
1
I am self employed too. I don't need child insurance, but I have to pay for it. I don't need birth control but I have to pay for it. Why should I have to pay for others?? That's in ALL plans, what a ripoff for those who will never need or use these "features".
Dear 18 million people who are about to lose health insurance: Did you vote? Did you vote for the party who would protect your health-care interests?
If you answered "no" to either of these questions, you are about to get what you deserve for your willful ignorance.
If you answered "no" to either of these questions, you are about to get what you deserve for your willful ignorance.
47
Excuse me. I voted Dem, and I will lose my health insurance.
I am looking forward to it, some relief from the Obamacare disaster that costs me more and more every year. The smallest increase I have gotten was 15%. Can you say unsustainable?
1
You break it, you buy it.
.
As long as the ACA was written and pushed through by Obama, it's failings were his. Whatever changes are made to it under Republican control are theirs. They will then own the problems and they will be held accountable, at least by this voter and probably many others.
.
As long as the ACA was written and pushed through by Obama, it's failings were his. Whatever changes are made to it under Republican control are theirs. They will then own the problems and they will be held accountable, at least by this voter and probably many others.
24
Hey Congress! I'll have what you're having. Free health care.
51
I would love it if we got rid of free health care for members of Congress. Then maybe some of this would hit home for legislators.
3
I'm hoping and praying our Narcissist elect and his Republican slaves continue their pursuit of destroying Obamacare. Please, please, PLEASE dear God, let them do it. Then, in due time, we can get rid of him, and most of his party.
13
In the meantime, I've lost my insurance...and I'm dead at worst or bankrupt at best. Is this really the way you want to defeat the other party?
1
Will Trump repeal and replace with Trumpdontcare,
or will he instead promote "Oscar Health", the health insurance start-up co-founded by Joshua Kushner, the brother of Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner?
or will he instead promote "Oscar Health", the health insurance start-up co-founded by Joshua Kushner, the brother of Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner?
18
Really, I did not know that! US would ended up with single payer called Oscar Health. Full circle is complete. Swamp is now a sewer.
1
If you've tried to repeal a law scores of times, shouldn't you already have the replacement ready to go?
53
Absolutely! You'd think they'd have something by now, since they've been doing this since Day 1.
1
Can you build a wall on the northern border? We'll pay for the whole thing up front.
20
I wonder how many people who depend on ACA didn't bother to vote. I know at least 4 who didn't.
14
My daughter knows a bunch of black college students that didn't bother to vote for Hilary, because she didn't look like Obama and them. I can guarantee that many of them are beneficiaries of the ACA. Or were on CHIP aka Peachcare in Georgia growing up which Hilary was responsible for.
They just don't get that the angry white men are all about the big leap forward they have gotten the last 8 years.
They just don't get that the angry white men are all about the big leap forward they have gotten the last 8 years.
1
Wait! You mean Republicans actually have to deal with reality rather than just making up a bunch of lies about Obamacare?
Universal access = pray you don't get sick or lose a job.
Universal access = pray you don't get sick or lose a job.
22
I thought Trump said "Make America Great Again" but it has become "Make Russian Great Again". If your torqued about your healthcare crashing after Trump, McConnell and Trump get done...if you sight one you can express your dismay. They will be wearing easy to see big red hats, Trump stickers on their cars and still flying their Trump signs in their yards. Also, the congressional members behind crashing the country all have address. Be sure to stop in and let them know how you feel.
17
ACA was passed in 2009. Seven years later, republicans who have been voting to repeal it since then have no alternative and never will.
The GOP healthcare replacement plan has a name and it's called : The NOBODYCARE.
The GOP healthcare replacement plan has a name and it's called : The NOBODYCARE.
26
You can be sure of one thing, the replacement plan will have a great sounding name...
How can Republican's do this? How can you repeal something, and then have no replacement plan? Many of my friends rely on the ACA and to read this article and seeing all of the reprocussions that, not only they but all who use this system, will endeavor upsets and disturbs me. This is going to HURT people. And Republicans seem to have no qualms about it. Come on now, is it really worth runing millions of peoples health care to 'get back at Obama'??
24
Lacey, not just get back at Obama. If they privatize, which is what they want to do, they will get kick backs in the millions and billions from physician groups, pharmaceutical companies, and health insurance companies. These corporations will make insane amounts of BLOOD MONEY from hurting the people, (charging a lot for insurance, drugs, any type of care) and the politicians want their share. This whole "thing" is a deal to corporatize America so the very wealthy corporations and the politicians get as rich as possible...while many will suffer, be unable to get insurance or care, and die. While they do hate Obama and the Democrats, and they are crazy, selfish, nasty, jealous, characterless people...the bottom line is not all that; the bottom line is PROFITS AND KICK BACKS.
2
Now you know why the Healthcare industry has been so silent... profits.
18
DOULBE? So, instead of paying $900 a month, I'll be paying $1800?! Thank you, Paul Ryan!
19
II seems to me another case of why fix it if it ain't broke. JGAIA
8
Well, you can have healthcare for many, or you can have tax cuts for millionaires and billionaires. But, you can't have both. Think quick! Pick one!
26
When I write that the Republican Congress poses a greater threat to US welfare than ISIS I don't get any approvals. Nevertheless it's true.
90
Never considered it but, yeah, this is true. More people will die, actually MANY Xs more will die, due to the GOP then to ISIS. Sad. Super Sad.
Blah, blah, blah.
Most US politicians are crooks and most Americans are stupid.
Now what do we do?
Most US politicians are crooks and most Americans are stupid.
Now what do we do?
20
Now what do we do? Start educating our fellow Americans one at a time on the true consequences of their decisions in the voting booth. Read up on the phenomenom of "gas lighting" and be prepared for irrational blow-back, but stay the course. Demand evidence and facts where possible. Be informed yourself.
2
Show up to the town halls this summer and give it to 'em 10x harder than the Dems got in '09. Re-use all the same arguments (DEATH PANELS PULLING THE PLUG ON GRANDMA!), and better yet, this time those arguments will actually be accurate!
This is the first initiative by Republicans to MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN - but for whom? Paul Ryan has stated that "the American people should have the freedom to choose health coverage" - Republican code speak to repeal The Affordable Care Act. Indeed, if 18 million people lose their insurance coverage, voters should not wait for 4 years to make an administration change. Voters should throw out all Republicans running for reelection in 2018 when mid-term election takes place.
24
Before Trump & his fellow Republicans proceed with making health care in America great, they might want to brush up on some basics of insurance. Here is a primer, taken from Robert I. Mehr et al., Principles of Insurance 35-38(1985); Emmett J.Vaughn. Fundamentals of Risk and Insurance 26-28 (1992).
For insurance to be economically feasible, certain basic elements must be satisfied. They include the following:
(1) enough individuals exposed to the same or similar risk must participate;
(2) the risk must be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a major loss to the insured if it eventuates;
(3) the insured must hope that the contingent event never materializes, i.e., the risk must be unwanted;
(4) the risk must be beyond the control of the individual;
(5) the risk must not be near universal;
(6) the risk, if it materializes, should not affect large numbers of individuals simultaneously;
(7) THERE MUST NOT BE EXCESSIVE COVERAGE OF HIGH RISK CANDIDATES IN PROPORTION TO THE COVERAGE OF LOW RISK CANDIDATE; AND
(8) the loss must be calculable and the cost of insuring it must be economically feasible.
For insurance to be economically feasible, certain basic elements must be satisfied. They include the following:
(1) enough individuals exposed to the same or similar risk must participate;
(2) the risk must be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a major loss to the insured if it eventuates;
(3) the insured must hope that the contingent event never materializes, i.e., the risk must be unwanted;
(4) the risk must be beyond the control of the individual;
(5) the risk must not be near universal;
(6) the risk, if it materializes, should not affect large numbers of individuals simultaneously;
(7) THERE MUST NOT BE EXCESSIVE COVERAGE OF HIGH RISK CANDIDATES IN PROPORTION TO THE COVERAGE OF LOW RISK CANDIDATE; AND
(8) the loss must be calculable and the cost of insuring it must be economically feasible.
14
On a side note, that certainly explains why national flood insurance is a complete disaster!
Make America SICK again!
Chaos Coming!
Chaos Coming!
25
SHOW ME THE PLAN
As a supporter of single payer, I'm not wed to Obamacare. However, the Republicans who plan to repeal the ACA have produced no plan to replace it with. We must demand that they show us their plan and allow and open and fair debate before they trash the law.
If someone said, "I'm going to tear down your house, but don't worry, after the bulldozers leave, I'll come up with a design for a great new house," no one would go along with it for a minute. We'd want to know if the new house is going to be mansion, a chicken coop or something in between. Will there be indoor plumbing? Electricity?
Tell your Senators and Representatives you want them to SHOW YOU THE PLAN. It's not asking too much.
As a supporter of single payer, I'm not wed to Obamacare. However, the Republicans who plan to repeal the ACA have produced no plan to replace it with. We must demand that they show us their plan and allow and open and fair debate before they trash the law.
If someone said, "I'm going to tear down your house, but don't worry, after the bulldozers leave, I'll come up with a design for a great new house," no one would go along with it for a minute. We'd want to know if the new house is going to be mansion, a chicken coop or something in between. Will there be indoor plumbing? Electricity?
Tell your Senators and Representatives you want them to SHOW YOU THE PLAN. It's not asking too much.
39
Predictable comments from GOP leadership criticizing a non-partisan analysis by the CBO on what a repeal of ACA without an immediate replacement plan translates into as far as coverage for MILLIONS of people - btw, perhaps the ONLY worthwhile conceptual announcement by Trump is his insistence that any repeal of ACA be accompanied by a concurrent (and very detailed) replacement plan.
I'm going to lump this in with the flip side of the great John Fogarty song "Centerfield", with its chorus: "put me in Coach, I'm ready to play Centerfield...". So the narrator (who is just brimming with confidence) gets in the game and the first ball hit to him hits him on the head - I guess he wasn't actually ready to play centerfield after all...
I'm going to lump this in with the flip side of the great John Fogarty song "Centerfield", with its chorus: "put me in Coach, I'm ready to play Centerfield...". So the narrator (who is just brimming with confidence) gets in the game and the first ball hit to him hits him on the head - I guess he wasn't actually ready to play centerfield after all...
5
These types of articles only serve to drive fear! Stop it!
Trump was specific....Repeal and Replace would almost be simultaneous. He will not allow for any space between that would hurt current ACA members.
Before we hit the panic button, lets give the guy a chance to deliver on his promise. I think all of these articles about "what if" and "OMG the sky MIGHT fall" are not helpful.
Trump was specific....Repeal and Replace would almost be simultaneous. He will not allow for any space between that would hurt current ACA members.
Before we hit the panic button, lets give the guy a chance to deliver on his promise. I think all of these articles about "what if" and "OMG the sky MIGHT fall" are not helpful.
3
I have a bridge for sale in Brooklyn I would like to show you.......
18
J.G.,
And when it hits the fan and the GOP can't replace it with something better, will you blame the Democrats?
And when it hits the fan and the GOP can't replace it with something better, will you blame the Democrats?
17
SORRY! Trump has noooooooo credibility. Republicans have nooooooo evidence that they have thought of a replacement plan. This is no time to listen to "trust us, we're from the government and we're here to help." Perhaps we Americans all could ponder the fact that Obamacare was WORKING and needed tweaks and more buy-in. Thank the republicans for preventing that at all costs.
3
Right now all federal employees except Congress and their staff have Federal health care that is widely lauded. By repealing the ACA, Congress allows themselves to go back to that while leaving the rest of us to hang. Why not eliminate all other forms of health care (Medicare, Medicaid, ACA, private insurance and all) and put everyone on the federal plan that Congress is so anxious to back to themselves? Or is it too radical to claim that sauce for the leaders is sauce for the workers?
22
While we are at it, let's repeal health coverage for all the Republican representatives and Senators who want to repeal and replace the ACA. The perhaps compassion will return.
38
I have not yet read the article but I want to make a comment first. I think the ACA, otherwise known as Obamacare, is a wonderful thing. even as It fulfills only a partial dream of the Democrats since Truman to provide universal coverage for ALL Americans.
From what I read on the news a large percentage of the poor white Trump voters have depend on Obamacare for their health insurance. Yet they may or may not know that and in any even they voted for Trump any way. For that reason, and that reason alone, I think it is a wonderful thing that Trump and the GOP are going to repeal the ACA ASAP and I wholeheartedly support the repeal even though I feel a deep sorrow for those who did not vote for Trump but will suffer deeply, as they say, as collateral damages. As they say, election has consequences.
Now I read Trump is promising "insurance coverage for all Americans" so let those who think Trump is their savior wait for that. In the meantime I will not hold my breadth. For one thing we all know how much Trump's promises mean or are worth.
Now I will read the article.
From what I read on the news a large percentage of the poor white Trump voters have depend on Obamacare for their health insurance. Yet they may or may not know that and in any even they voted for Trump any way. For that reason, and that reason alone, I think it is a wonderful thing that Trump and the GOP are going to repeal the ACA ASAP and I wholeheartedly support the repeal even though I feel a deep sorrow for those who did not vote for Trump but will suffer deeply, as they say, as collateral damages. As they say, election has consequences.
Now I read Trump is promising "insurance coverage for all Americans" so let those who think Trump is their savior wait for that. In the meantime I will not hold my breadth. For one thing we all know how much Trump's promises mean or are worth.
Now I will read the article.
15
Stop focusing health coverage on individuals.
Pay hospital networks directly so they can treat whoever comes to their hospital or clinic.
Pay hospital networks directly so they can treat whoever comes to their hospital or clinic.
7
Tell that to the Rep. Congress
7
"A repeal could increase the number of uninsured Americans by 32 million in 10 years, the report said, while causing individual insurance premiums to double over that time."
Premium will double in 10 years at the rate of about 7% a year; that's far better than the rate of increase now. This is just compound rule.
What rule does uninsured Americans follow?
Premium will double in 10 years at the rate of about 7% a year; that's far better than the rate of increase now. This is just compound rule.
What rule does uninsured Americans follow?
1
In 2013 with the launch of Obamacare millions upon millions of Americans lost their insurance and their doctors, but that was of no consequence to democrats and Barry, our president! Look what happens when a Republican wins the WH, Democrats develop a conscience! I am expecting to see my first anti-war Democrat protester in 8 years any day now! Soon I expect the NY Times to restart lecturing all Americans on the importance of deficits too.
All these changes solely because Trump was elected, who knew!
All these changes solely because Trump was elected, who knew!
1
No. Far more people gained than lost coverage with ACA Odyss and the last budget surplus was under Bill Clinton. Democrats are well aware of the debt which was driven by the crash of 2008 (decreasing tax revenues) rather than increasing government.
10
Democrats and Republicans are two sides of the same coin. If Democrats wanted to do people a service, there would have been a public option, but NO, why not? Because just like the Republicans, they're in the pockets of big money. The most insulting part is that, they take our tax dollars give it to the military industrial complex, AND the pharmaceutical industrial complex, but child us as being entitled, which we are, given we're paying the taxes. What kind of logical world thinks that the wealthy should not only NOT pay taxes, but worse, use OUR tax dollars!
False in its entirety.
i certainly hope that the deplorables who voted the orange monster in will comprise a large chunk of those who will lose their benefits!
18
I can't agree with these statements. We need single payer and remove one layer of profit taking. I don't wish a loss of health insurance on anyone.
What happened to the 47 million they were touting earlier this morning?
4
It probably went to the cornfield with the other fictions you imagine D. Try adding a link. Searching yields nothing for this number. I do see 18-30 million which should be enough to cause thought.
All these comments about one-sided reporting here just on all the negative impacts of repealing the ACA, and no reporting on all the positive impacts of the replacement. Because there is no replacement plan offered by the Republicans after so many years complaining about it? Naw, couldn't be that....
How can you analyze the benefits of something that doesn't exist? Have IQs really dropped that much in this country?
How can you analyze the benefits of something that doesn't exist? Have IQs really dropped that much in this country?
19
Yes. If there was 1 thing I learned in 2016 it is that I have vastly overestimated the median in our society.
they dont care
8
I think the NY Times is reading too much into this report because the projection assumes that there is no replacement. This is not news, this is a hit piece.
2
But... there is no replacement.
13
The CBO only scores real things, not imaginary things. When the GOP proposes something specific, it will be scored too.
Major civics education desperately needed in the USA.
Major civics education desperately needed in the USA.
12
They had 6 years to come up with a replacement. All they ever tried to do was repeal it. Until something exists, it doesn't exist.
11
Thats better than having your premiums double every 2 years.
2
And how will the Republicans replace Obamacare?
America waits to hear. And waits.
The Rich Man who will be sworn in as President in 3 days says he's polishing up *his* plan for presentation. Kinda like polishing a t*rd, more likely.
How would a rich man's son know what the average person needs?
America waits to hear. And waits.
The Rich Man who will be sworn in as President in 3 days says he's polishing up *his* plan for presentation. Kinda like polishing a t*rd, more likely.
How would a rich man's son know what the average person needs?
19
OK Democrats- We need to assemble a protest, a sit-in, a drum circle and a poetry slam! That's how we'll fight the wave of oppression which looms over us... It's probably better to elect younger, stronger leaders and re-vamp our party from the ground up- But then again- the sensible plan isn't always the right choice, especially when you got the groovy vibes of a drum circle and the unconditional love from an emotional support animal. Shout out to Gizmo-my bud tender !!
3
More fake news from the NYT. The Times should be ashamed of this article. It has been repeatedly explained that no one will lose their insurance with the repeal and replacement of the ACA, but the Times insists on printing this nonsense. The ACA has been called one of the worst atrocities ever committed by a government upon its own people. It is collapsing as we speak. What the Times forgets to mention is that 75% of the 20 million who gained insurance under ACA got it through expansion of Medicad, which is very close to having no insurance at all. Less than 2% of Americans received insurance through the ACA exchanges. Was it really necessary to hurt 95% of Americans in order to help less than 2%? The new health care law will be everything the ACA is not, includign having widespread bi-partisan popular support
1
It will be great, just great, this new health care law, you won't believe how great, just wait and see!
6
"Medicaid, which is very close to having no insurance at all."
You know absolutely nothing about Medicaid.
You know absolutely nothing about Medicaid.
9
What new healthcare law? Do you know something we don't?
8
The GOP repeal of Obamacare is about revenge. Plain and simple.
The GOP has known all along that Obamacare is a conservative health care solution, born and bred out out of the conservative Heritage Foundation (that's why the liberals hated the ACA).
The ACA champions the one thing that's always been evergreen for the GOP: market-based solutions. Even though they won't admit it, it isn't the ACA itself that the GOP takes issue with. This is why they've never been able to come up with a replacement plan for the ACA. Obamacare WAS their plan.
No, this is about targeting the man who was responsible for enacting the ACA.
It's Obama they're out to get, not the American people.
In order to retaliate against Obama - the one man who now matters to them more than anyone else - the GOP is willing to crawl over 18 million+ bodies of Americans that DON'T matter to them.
That's why the prospect of suddenly stripping these 18 million+ people of their health insurance isn't dissuading the GOP.
They're not even thinking about the American people. Repealing the ACA isn't even ABOUT the American people.
It's about the fact that they now have a Republican president, a Republican-controlled House and Senate, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to euphorically commence a blind, white payback against one black Democrat and his multi-colored legacy.
And in their punch-drunk fealty to GOP objectives above all else, they're taking it.
The GOP has known all along that Obamacare is a conservative health care solution, born and bred out out of the conservative Heritage Foundation (that's why the liberals hated the ACA).
The ACA champions the one thing that's always been evergreen for the GOP: market-based solutions. Even though they won't admit it, it isn't the ACA itself that the GOP takes issue with. This is why they've never been able to come up with a replacement plan for the ACA. Obamacare WAS their plan.
No, this is about targeting the man who was responsible for enacting the ACA.
It's Obama they're out to get, not the American people.
In order to retaliate against Obama - the one man who now matters to them more than anyone else - the GOP is willing to crawl over 18 million+ bodies of Americans that DON'T matter to them.
That's why the prospect of suddenly stripping these 18 million+ people of their health insurance isn't dissuading the GOP.
They're not even thinking about the American people. Repealing the ACA isn't even ABOUT the American people.
It's about the fact that they now have a Republican president, a Republican-controlled House and Senate, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to euphorically commence a blind, white payback against one black Democrat and his multi-colored legacy.
And in their punch-drunk fealty to GOP objectives above all else, they're taking it.
28
NOT just revenge! But also about making a lot of money for their corporate cronies in the health care businesses, and getting paid back by their buddies for passing legislation that ALLOWS these already filthy rich corporations to take a bigger bite out of the average American...and if a lot of us die for lack of medical care, well, that is less Social Security the government will have to pay. More for the politicians to grab. It is about making America into a great, big piggy bank for THEMSELVES. Actually, they were already doing pretty good with the graft and corruption. This is going to take it to a whole new level.
1
The Republican death panels commence.
17
If you believe that you can always purchased medical care via. the simple method of cash, then the repeal of insurance can be portrayed as a very moral decision and nothing much to worry about.
1
Speaking from his alternate universe, Trump said in an interview that the ACA replacement would provide "insurance for everybody" at a lower cost. He declined to provide details.
13
... the Trump administration could, by regulation, mitigate some of the effects on insurance markets...
Is this going to be a bailout for the insurance industry or a new stimulus package for the insurance industry.
Politics as usual.
Is this going to be a bailout for the insurance industry or a new stimulus package for the insurance industry.
Politics as usual.
2
But he said that he is "like a smart person" and that he "loves the poorly educated." What could possibly go wrong?
19
My most heartfelt congratulations to Republicans; you must be so proud of yourselves.
17
The great irony is all of those Trump voters are going to lose their insurance. Give yourselves a pat on the back.
12
They cannot do that [pat themselves on the back] because they are so unfit it might hurt their back and-or their elbow. and without insurance they will have to get opioids - on the street.
7
Oh, just great, my family will lose coverage if Medicaid support ends here in WA. We will have hard decisions to make, or just go without health insurance.
13
"But that replacement bill has yet to be produced..."
So why not wait to see it before writing prematurely scary stories like this one? Anyone can destroy an idea based on hypotheticals favorable to one's own position.
So why not wait to see it before writing prematurely scary stories like this one? Anyone can destroy an idea based on hypotheticals favorable to one's own position.
3
The report analyzed the legislation past by Congress last year but vetoed by the President. It represented the Republican replacement plan. It was not hypothetical.
7
After 7 years they have nothing, so how much difference will a few weeks make?
6
True true, as the Republicans proved with the fear mongering they did when the ACA was being debated.
7 years dude, and no plan.
7 years dude, and no plan.
2
simple solution to the Republican quandary over repealing Obamacare while keeping many of its provisions:
Pass a law renaming it Trumpcare. Problem solved.
Pass a law renaming it Trumpcare. Problem solved.
104
I am offended as many Americans will be. I could go with Massachusetts Care.
4
The ONLY durable way to solve this problem , and get the BESTEST solution is to have everyone in the SAME plan. Everyone, including congress, business employees, troops, unemployed, etc. Medicare supplements-like range of options, so people may choose what level of self-insurance they want. As long as congress is fat and [dumb and] happy nothing sustainable will be done.
10
Or if they totally repeal Obamacare and have nothing equivalent to replace it with what remains should definitely be Trumpcare (in gold letters). Then we can all warmly remember those days when America was 'great' and many people did not go to the doctor because they could not afford it.
2
It makes sense to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Before the ACA, crushing health bills were the No. 1 cause of personal bankruptcy in the U.S. Given our president-elect's fondness for bankruptcy, it should come as no surprise he has a better solution: The new & improved Spend Now/Stiff Them Later Program. SNSTL Health Care. It'll be terrific.
The fact that it's ourselves we'll be stiffing with all manner of societal problems doesn't matter. Let the next generation worry about that. We don't have to pay now - our health bills or our taxes for that matter - that's what makes us smart!
The fact that it's ourselves we'll be stiffing with all manner of societal problems doesn't matter. Let the next generation worry about that. We don't have to pay now - our health bills or our taxes for that matter - that's what makes us smart!
12
Repeal it and let the safety net fall. There are a few folks I know that voted for Hillary and take advantage of the ACA (and for them I am truly sorry). There are many more that voted for Trump and also take advantage of the ACA. Let them find out what it's like under their new president.
And I should note, this is in jest. I think it's horrific to even consider repealing.
And I should note, this is in jest. I think it's horrific to even consider repealing.
11
I presume this is in the Congressional Record should any of our representatives choose to or are capable of reading and understanding it.
Removing the Affordable Care Act would be a cruel thing to do. Of course if the Republicans knew the damage it would do to their ability to hold onto a majority perhaps they might think twice. But maybe they are just too arrogant.
Removing the Affordable Care Act would be a cruel thing to do. Of course if the Republicans knew the damage it would do to their ability to hold onto a majority perhaps they might think twice. But maybe they are just too arrogant.
10
They believe that they will be able to lie their way out of it as they have on so many occasions. They are probably right.
6
We know how we got here. The hubris of a party anointing an unpopular person for their ticket. So now what? My bet is that the repeal will not work. Just need to peel off a few hidden R moderates facing 2018. The real work is: the D party got to go and get local. Forget the big picture. Start all over again local. Learn from the opposition.
7
Why is the the only way to get a Group insurance rate to be an employee? I'm a sole proprietor who has been in the Individual market for 25 years, and we've been subject to crazy increases since long before Obamacare was passed. Why can't a "group" of self-employed people get a Group rate? Is it prohibited by law? What law?
8
Ever fashionable, the American left now fancies itself as a resistance movement, as though Donald Trump has taken the country by force and the left finds itself behind enemy lines in occupied territory. NY Fashion Week next year will no doubt be all berets, camouflage and fatigues. And very clearly this paper is intent on being the clarion voice of "le resistance." But how ridiculous is it to have a front page headline suggesting a specific number of Americans who would lose health insurance coverage from a Republican health plan that has not yet been fully formulated, agreed upon, proposed or made public?
Progressives remain butt-hurt over the election results and eager to stir up a hornet's nest of opposition to anything Trump might do. We get that, and would expect nothing less from such self righteous sore losers. After all, how dare the rest of the country reject the know-it-all pronouncements from NYC, Chicago and California? It would be nice, however, if the NYT would actually know what Trump is proposing before trying to scare people about it. When you do otherwise, you just appear silly.
Progressives remain butt-hurt over the election results and eager to stir up a hornet's nest of opposition to anything Trump might do. We get that, and would expect nothing less from such self righteous sore losers. After all, how dare the rest of the country reject the know-it-all pronouncements from NYC, Chicago and California? It would be nice, however, if the NYT would actually know what Trump is proposing before trying to scare people about it. When you do otherwise, you just appear silly.
3
7 years and waiting for that replacement
6
Please read the article thoroughly before you start with the old cry-baby, sore loser cliche. (To be honest I wish I knew where this cliche started - it seems to be the knee jerk reaction to any criticism of Trump). This is the CBO, not the NYT, that did the analysis. The analysis was based on the plan laid out by the Republican Congress as a replacement for ACA. Trump hasn't (and as near as I can tell never will) lay out his own plan in any detail - lots of "I want everyone to like me" rhetoric - but no substance. The CBO has used the best representation of a plan to determine what might actually happen.
8
See my comment above. The analysis was based on legislation passed by Congress last year and vetoed by the President.
6
Given the disregard for scientific data among many politicians and voters, I am sure many will just not care and continue to promote their false statements. See Brexit.
5
A country which has no universal health care for its citizens is nothing more than a third world country.
40
it is actually worse than being a 3rd world country. the costs in the 3rd world are much less [and care is slightly worse] that in the US.
3
A small price to pay, to ensure that millionaires and billionaires get tax cuts.
22
Now let's watch all of the Trump supporters covered under the AHCA (maybe 10 million of the 20 million covered?) recoil in horror when they lose their health insurance in 2018. Who thinks for a NY minute that any private insurer will remain in the game during the nightmare called "repeal and delay." They are already heading for the exits. Somehow, Trump, Ryan, and McConnell will blame Obama and the Dems for the disaster they will create! But, the bankruptcy, despair, sickness and death will be on them. Welcome to the marriage of Trump and Ayn Rand!
8
The American public should get the same health insurance as our representatives in Congress, no more, no less, at the same cost.
15
This is the best idea I have heard. I vote for this. Oh wait I am not a Republican congressman so this won't happen.
6
In my honest opinion none of them politicians really could care about us if we have insurance or healthcare at all because in the end they get the best healthcare around while the people struggle to get care. I have said for a long time coming I think all of them need to give up their luxury salaries and healthcare benefits and live like the rest of us for about a year and they will gain a better perspective because in reality what has happened is all of them have been living in a bubble for so long they don't know what the common man or woman goes through on a daily basis. I don't belong to any political party at all by the way. This is the core reason why we need to have term limits and when they get out of office their healthcare is revoked and they have to get insurance just like the rest of us have to.
2
Better yet, you should be able to be covered under the same plan your red, fossilized congressman is. (Ironically, you pay for his salary and his health care)
1
Except Jesse, that they get to KEEP their superb health insurance after they retire, for themselves, and for their spouse. And they get the wonderful pension, too. It doesn't even matter if they serve one term. Their healthcare is NOT revoked when they leave office. If YOU leave your job or get fired, you may have COBRA for a while, if you can afford it, but after that, you are on your own. Talk about these politicians living in a bubble! Yeah!
If the government wants me to have health insurance, they should give it to me. Stop telling me to go to website to buy a product from a private, for-profit, company! I’m not against universal healthcare. I’m against the mandate that I go to a website and give my money to a for-profit company that donates to the campaigns of politicians in Washington. It’s absurd, the logic that liberals are using to justify this scam.
5
Yep, make em pay for disaster insurance, just to put em on the rolls. Then embed em in the numbers of "insured". Fact is they cant possibly pay the Co-Pays
2
All this uncertainty causing nationwide anxiety, for what? We know what: to spite Obama. If there were any other reason, the Republicans would have long ago rolled up their sleeves and done the hard work of crafting an affordable yet comprehensive plan that met the test of hard numbers. Their cover has now been blown, and they have revealed themselves to be not only unprepared to govern, but lazy.
8
This report will surely prompt the Republican Congress to take swift action. . .to close the Congressional Budget Office, that is, to prevent the CBO from ever issuing another report that reveals them---Republicans---as the callous, uncaring louts that they are.
11
There is already a Republican bill to stop the CBO from estimating the costs of "repeal and replace". The GOP doesn't want you to know.
2
So the possible actions of a President who has not been sworn in yet, combined with the possible actions of a Congress that hasn't released details of a plan yet, could be bad if they act in accordance with how the CBO is guessing they might? Am I missing something? Why exactly did they do this analysis?
1
Yes, you are missing something. It's in the second paragraph. It explains what the study was based on. These weren't based on possible actions. These were based on plans Republicans had for the ACA. These are plans that we know, that were shared with us.
How many of those 18 million are only buying it due to the mandates, and will therefore be glad to be rid of it?
3
Yeah, but what happens if, after they get rid of their ACA mandated insurance, but then get sick, injured, etc. What do you do then? Think you can afford large hospital bills-think again.
Repeal it! I got mine. Go get your own. I vote Dem, I supported ACA, but at this point I don't have any sympathy for the folks that voted against their own self-interest. I've had health insurance coverage my entire working life (over 45 years). I've seen coverage increase and decrease, costs go up and down. I've read through the plans and picked and chose. When I was younger I went for low cost/high deductible (bad idea). I now have double coverage (essentially, no deductible). Costs about $1200/month. Without health coverage, if you get sick best to just die rather than saddling your family with crippling debt. Maybe consider a burial plan instead. That's a good idea, replace the ACA with an Affordable Burial Plan Act, ABPA, the Trumpcare plan. "Terrific burial plan, terrific, terrific plan, everybody can afford it."
13
Ending the Affordable Health Care Act without having anything ready to replace it is completely irresponsible. Period. Fine they hate the president that adopted the Act and are willing to overlook all of the good that the Act has done, but the Republicans had years and years to come up with an alternative and they have....nothing. So clearly, coming up with something as good as the Affordable Health Care Act is not as easy as the Republicans are pretending it is. They need to grow up and show some responsible governing before they hurt the lives of millions of people because they have nothing with which to replace the Act. Slow down and put something else in place before the repeal.
4
Those losing insurance fall into 2 categories: Trump supporters and non-Trump supporters. The non-Trump supporters according to exit poll studies are mostly the bottom quintile of income (working poor) and they will revert to using the local E.R. for basic medical care. The Trump supporters deserve what they wished for.
1
First of all, Trump is replacing it with something much, much better. Second, all people will have access to Health care (emergency rooms). Third of all, like the farmers in Iowas pointed out the other day int he front page article, this bill gives benefits to the poor and taxpayers are paying for it. So if you are born poor, tough. By the way, please increase all the farm subsidies!
2
What's truly remarkable is that Democrats are more optimistic about single payer now than they were before the election, even though the wrong guy won.
Sorta gives that anarchic element of the Bernie coalition of needing to 'burn things down before they get better' a little vindication.
Sorta gives that anarchic element of the Bernie coalition of needing to 'burn things down before they get better' a little vindication.
This is sad. People can't even get insurance and pay a decent price for it. One colossal mess. These are the people the people elect into office who can't do anything right
1
18 million to lose their health insurance??? Best to note the source of this study before accepting the results as reality. May I suggest please remember who paid for the study -- and who conducted it. "What should the results be, generous client"?
I'd like the money Obama borrowed from Medicare. What a disgrace. I earned the right to use Medicare monies and our great president borrowed so much from Medicate we now pay upwards of $134 a month to Medicare because of the money he borrowed without seniors' permission!
1
Eh? Medicare premiums are calculated using a formula that predates the ACA, and those premiums rise annually because healthcare costs rise each year. As to "borrowing" from Medicare, that has been debunked. He reduced reimbursements to hospitals, thereby *improving* the health of the Medicare trust funds.
3
It doesn't sound like you understand how the ACA affected Medicare. It has been generally accepted, even by AARP, to be a success, closing the prescription "doughnut hole" and forcing efficiencies.
2
Nomad ** Cavalli is right. Since the ACA money has been taken from the Medicare fund to help pay for Medicaid. The health of the Medicare trust fund has not been improved, that is ridiculous. People have had to pay in more.
For a party that supports privatizing and free enterprise, I'm surprised that they have not ever spoken to one data point or analysis that outlines how stripping away a heath care act that yes, needed improvement, but managed to help millions who did not have heath care is the right direction. I'd really like to see any data that shows us we have nothing to fear.
5
It kind of looks like Trump’s planning to let the nukes fly and stuff like that. What’s all this about canceling the Iran nuclear deal? Could he be intending that a military solution replace it? But then what about all his other threats- could he really be thinking that our military is going to be on the ground coercing Mexico, Iran, China, North Korea, maybe others, and hunting terrorists, all at the same time? And does he maybe want to get rid of Obamacare because he knows the Republicans aren’t going to create a replacement?
After meeting MLKJ’s kid the other day, Trump now has another swipe at Lewis on twitter.
In that Africa questionnaire reported on by the Times the other day, Trump asked if African Al Qaeda agents are in America, and he asked how to prevent the next ebola outbreak. Supposedly there’s this old twitter post where he argues, using all caps, that Americans he went to Africa as aid workers and got ebola there should stay in Africa instead of coming to America for treatment.
It maybe looks, then, like Trump is ready to start attacking black people someday as if they're terrorists. Or maybe the questionnaire is spelling things out, helping the alt right to be satisfied with just relatively prosaic stuff like the Obamacare move.
As if to say, “I’m getting rid of Obamacare, but, if you’ve been paying attention, maybe black people are in Al Qaeda and have ebola. . .”
After meeting MLKJ’s kid the other day, Trump now has another swipe at Lewis on twitter.
In that Africa questionnaire reported on by the Times the other day, Trump asked if African Al Qaeda agents are in America, and he asked how to prevent the next ebola outbreak. Supposedly there’s this old twitter post where he argues, using all caps, that Americans he went to Africa as aid workers and got ebola there should stay in Africa instead of coming to America for treatment.
It maybe looks, then, like Trump is ready to start attacking black people someday as if they're terrorists. Or maybe the questionnaire is spelling things out, helping the alt right to be satisfied with just relatively prosaic stuff like the Obamacare move.
As if to say, “I’m getting rid of Obamacare, but, if you’ve been paying attention, maybe black people are in Al Qaeda and have ebola. . .”
2
My wife and had a baseline understanding that a job cannot be considered a job if it does not carry health insurance. As we moved out from the recession, reinvention of skillsets and all, the first employer to offer a job was a small company of 28. The employer provided the offer and said that he does not provide health insurance but this 'ACA' allows you to purchase it and the employer was required to kick in a subsidy for it.
That employer a month later was acquired by a large national employer, who does provide health insurance, 401k with match and other benefits.
If the goal of the GOP is to insure Americans who can work do how many Americans had that same rule in the household regarding employment, and does not the ACA allow for the expansion of employment...The best anti-proverty project is a job. The ACA did that
That employer a month later was acquired by a large national employer, who does provide health insurance, 401k with match and other benefits.
If the goal of the GOP is to insure Americans who can work do how many Americans had that same rule in the household regarding employment, and does not the ACA allow for the expansion of employment...The best anti-proverty project is a job. The ACA did that
1
American taxpayers pay for the insurance that Senators, Congresspeople, their families, and their staff get. So just extend that to all Americans. If not, national strike and possibly a tax strike. No insurance for us; none for you.
3
Many concerned, thoughtful people I know, both in America and abroad, hope that everyone who voted for the president-elect promply loses insurance coverage.
These are not unkind or callous people. Indeed, many are generous and caring. However, they all believe that actions have consequences, as sure as if you stepped through an open window on the 32nd floor of a skyscraper and kept walking, or stood on a railway track in front of a swiftly moving train.
These are not unkind or callous people. Indeed, many are generous and caring. However, they all believe that actions have consequences, as sure as if you stepped through an open window on the 32nd floor of a skyscraper and kept walking, or stood on a railway track in front of a swiftly moving train.
3
The Democrats asked for this. They were warned about it. And did nothing.
Families that were paying $500/month with reasonable deductibles are now paying $1,400/month with high deductibles that can cost the typical family a total of $25,000/year.
And The New York Times NEVER mentions this. It's as if everyone has benefited from Obamacare, and how dare those evil Republicans want to take it away from them.
Oh, and we lost our doctor.
Families that were paying $500/month with reasonable deductibles are now paying $1,400/month with high deductibles that can cost the typical family a total of $25,000/year.
And The New York Times NEVER mentions this. It's as if everyone has benefited from Obamacare, and how dare those evil Republicans want to take it away from them.
Oh, and we lost our doctor.
5
Actually the NYT has included those comments in many stories about the ACA. One thing to remember though is that costs were going up before the ACA and will continue to go up post-repeal. Oh, and I have employee-based insurance - and I lose my doctors periodically as the company changes plans. That's the reality of health insurance, period.
10
Sometimes individual sacrifice is required for the betterment of society. It's a real shame that many Americans don't understand that and will never volunteer to help others. Maybe our country would be better off if we cared more about the health of all Americans and not just the ones we see every day. Somehow, somewhere,the concept of individual freedom and personal responsibility has morphed into a complete lack of care for the man next door. In the end, we all lead better lives when less people in society struggle. What will it take for Americans to understand this? How bad will this get? I, for one, have no interest in see someone else's grandmother scavenging the streets for food. Yet a huge percentage of the baby boomers don't have money to retire, jobs aren't opening up, new services aren't being created, and I have yet to see a single elected representative bring this up. What are we going to do with all the people that can't pay for their basic care? There are no easy answers here, but I can tell you what certainly won't work; slashing all social services and cutting taxes down to the bare minimum. We need to start working on the problems of tomorrow and not the problems of yesterday.
6
Like many, I was denied insurance for years on the basis of any pre-existing condition insurance companies could find. I signed up for an ACA plan using the much maligned 1.0 website, and used it until this year when my job offered a company plan. The only reason I switched is due to fear of the impending repeal. Without getting into detail, Obamacare saved my life and saved me from an enormous hospital bill. Shame on the vindictive GOP, and on the people who have enabled their citizen bullying and greed-mongering that will cause the bankruptcy and death of millions.
14
http://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/issue-briefs/2017/jan/repea...
This could be a disaster. Not only would millions be uninsured, it would mean steep job losses. I would think that congressional republicans would use evidence prior to making decisions. They have, however, shut down the government over increasing the debt ceiling.
This could be a disaster. Not only would millions be uninsured, it would mean steep job losses. I would think that congressional republicans would use evidence prior to making decisions. They have, however, shut down the government over increasing the debt ceiling.
1
A bitter irony - While Ryan et al gleefully remove life-saving health insurance from millions, those same millions will be paying taxes that support the first rate coverage that Ryan and the rest of Congress will continue to enjoy.
11
This is government by male egotistical vengeance. Trump hates Obama as the black rival who's always been more popular than Trump is, without any of Trump's financial advantages. So Trump must destroy Obama's signature legislation and secretly wants to hurt its beneficiaries. Ryan's hates government subsidies because he's humiliated that himself received SS survivor's benefits as a young man. He fancies himself an Ayn Rand-style self-made man, and with his muscles bulging from his macho work-outs, he considers himself invincible -- who needs health insurance except weaklings?
This is why we need a woman president.
This is why we need a woman president.
7
I like your analysis, NineMuses. Ryan, a self-made man, indeed. He is also from a very wealthy family. As for a woman president...I wanted Hillary, too, but Bernie Sanders would not have let us rot, either.
If Orrin Hatch and his colleagues want a report outlining the "other half of the equation," then why don't they provide the CBO with their own detailed plan so that they can study it and make projections? One might surmise it is because they in fact have no such detailed plan, and even if they do, they do not want nor would they be willing to accept the results of a CBO study, particularly if said results do not support their specious claims of better coverage options for all at a cheaper price.
7
The ACA was highly unsatisfactory but it was a first attempt at what should be a valued asset for Americans. Also agree with other commentators that Americans do not need to hear false hysteria from the media who we know seek to paint our incoming president's administration with bleak thoughts.
I am very happy to have a pugnacious fighter in the WH who has enough confidence to walk onto a high wire. The world will find we are not that predictable little rat on a treadmill. America's politicians - good and bad - play it safe by making the status quo sacred.
Donald Trump is extremely smart and highly competent handling people. He will see to it that a healthcare plan system is in place that is not forced onto Americans but is an option too good to pass up.
I am very happy to have a pugnacious fighter in the WH who has enough confidence to walk onto a high wire. The world will find we are not that predictable little rat on a treadmill. America's politicians - good and bad - play it safe by making the status quo sacred.
Donald Trump is extremely smart and highly competent handling people. He will see to it that a healthcare plan system is in place that is not forced onto Americans but is an option too good to pass up.
1
Roxie:
"Donald Trump is extremely smart and highly competent"
Either this is sarcasm or I want what you're smokin'!!
"Donald Trump is extremely smart and highly competent"
Either this is sarcasm or I want what you're smokin'!!
4
"Republicans cautioned that the report painted only part of the picture — the impact of a fast repeal without the Republican replacement. They said the numbers in the report represented a one-sided hypothetical scenario."
But there is no republican replacement. Not even close. Not even in broad generalities. The hypothetical is only Senator Hatch's, who thinks the CBO has to assume that the Republicans are going to have replacement, someday, and further assume it's going to be good.
How about we deal with the realities of what Congress is doing.
But there is no republican replacement. Not even close. Not even in broad generalities. The hypothetical is only Senator Hatch's, who thinks the CBO has to assume that the Republicans are going to have replacement, someday, and further assume it's going to be good.
How about we deal with the realities of what Congress is doing.
5
I benefited from the ACA twice - when my salary was so low that I qualified for Medicaid under the ACA extensions (Medi-Cal here in s CA) and then when I needed in-between insurance when I started a new job - I signed up for an Obamacare plan under the California Exchange. During these two insurance stints I got deferred care handled such as laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis and much-needed psychiatric care and psychotherapy for my ongoing PTSD symptoms. If I had not had affordable insurance options 2013-2015 I would still be doubled-over from daily endometriosis-related pain. I am well today because of the ACA. While I now have private insurance through my employer, I want Obamacare to be around for me in case I lose my employment. I'm horrified at the thought that those options may soon disappear.
11
The divisiveness of our current political situation is absolutely staggering. So many Americans are going to suffer and die because of spiteful partisanship, and many more will bear the brunt of astronomical medical bills for years to come. If the Republicans vote to repeal Obamacare without preparing an adequate replacement, I will consider it an act bordering on evil.
5
Not bordering on evil...ABSOLUTELY EVIL!
1
IF only Obama wouldn't have rammed ObamaCare down on everyone --without any input from Republicans -- ObamaCare would not be the mess that it is. The primary rationale of the report is that repealing a 100% subsidy of medical care for a large number of Americans means less Americans will be insured. However, there is a difference between ObamaCare in and of itself and the chosen method of covering a 100% subsidy of medical care. It does not follow that because there is a repeal of one approach (ObamaCare) to funding the 100% subsidy, that repeal of that approach equates with loss of medical care for the 100% subsidized individuals. The logic of the report is equivalent to saying that, if GM goes out of business, then a large number of people will no longer have cars.
People routinely have their policies cancelled. As you note there is no reason to believe the new polices will not be sufficient.
1
From Day One, Republicans did not want to compromise on anything President Obama wanted to do. They only wanted to obstruct so that Obama would be a one-term president. That's what Mc Connell and his crew promised. The President was always open to work together. The Republicans refused to do their jobs for eight years and in all that time, what plan did they come up with as an alternative? Zero.
4
The struggles I have had to endure throughout my life to gain health care continue. I have run the gamut, from being a young woman with no insurance offered at my company, to being married to a man with a pre-existing condition, to finally getting it then paying $1300 a month for COBRA, to having a dependent on my health insurance who desperately needed it after a stroke. Now as an independent contractor I rely on this affordable healthcare as my only way into the market and the Republicans toy with me and all of us like this? They and Trump keep saying they have a plan, but what plan? Do I not have a voice about the plan and how it will impact me? Apparently not. Those of us on this insurance are all but invisible.
13
My husband and I are both self-employed. The ACA has allowed us to purchase healthcare, a first in a very long time. Luckily we are both healthy and have only used it for our yearly physicals and a mammogram for me. We are still several years away from Medicare (age 65), so the ACA is a godsend for us.
Out of curiosity, I called our insurance company the other day asking how much a comparable plan would cost to purchase on the open market. The rep ran some numbers and gave a rough estimate of $2700/per month for the two of us. Who can afford such healthcare? Certainly not us.
Show me a country that elects a new leader and as a result, abolishes the country's existing healthcare system. Only in America...
Out of curiosity, I called our insurance company the other day asking how much a comparable plan would cost to purchase on the open market. The rep ran some numbers and gave a rough estimate of $2700/per month for the two of us. Who can afford such healthcare? Certainly not us.
Show me a country that elects a new leader and as a result, abolishes the country's existing healthcare system. Only in America...
19
Since you cannot tell the difference between health care and health insurance your comment is worthless. But I will tell you this, I had health insurance in NC for $110 per month before Obamacare. Your state is responsible for the regulation of ALL insurance. If your state has high premiums vote in new state representatives who will not cater to special interests.
$110.00/month?
And you think at that amount you will be able to get care for ANYTHING above basic medical care? I doubt it. A plan with such a low premium is probably a bare bones plan, unless is it subsidized by something or someone. If chemotherapy costs $15,000 every time you get a treatment, I don't know how a plan with a premium of $110.00/month will cover the cost. Before I went on Medicare, I had an Obamacare Silver Plan for $486.00 month, with a $6,200.00 deductible. The plan on the open market would have cost me $1,300.00/month! THIS WAS A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN! So if I got cancer, (or anything serious) I would be responsible for the first $6,200.00. A LOT OF MONEY, YES! SCARY! Before the ACA, I was paying almost $800.00/month and struggling, and the deductible was $10,000. I was scared to death. Also, what was the deductible on your $110.00/month coverage? That matters, too.
And you think at that amount you will be able to get care for ANYTHING above basic medical care? I doubt it. A plan with such a low premium is probably a bare bones plan, unless is it subsidized by something or someone. If chemotherapy costs $15,000 every time you get a treatment, I don't know how a plan with a premium of $110.00/month will cover the cost. Before I went on Medicare, I had an Obamacare Silver Plan for $486.00 month, with a $6,200.00 deductible. The plan on the open market would have cost me $1,300.00/month! THIS WAS A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN! So if I got cancer, (or anything serious) I would be responsible for the first $6,200.00. A LOT OF MONEY, YES! SCARY! Before the ACA, I was paying almost $800.00/month and struggling, and the deductible was $10,000. I was scared to death. Also, what was the deductible on your $110.00/month coverage? That matters, too.
Repeal Obama Care was a common mantra during the hate-filled campaign. Now that they are faced with the actual precess of the repeal they are stumped. They did not anticipate they will be faced with such a daunting task. The masters of chicanery shot themselves in the foot this time around.
8
12 months ago Obama vetoed an Obamacare replacement plan that was debated and passed by both houses of Congress. Why you people are stuck on the lie that the Republicans have not continuously offered alternatives is a good question.
"You people", over two million of you people will get your health care repeal by the very same person you voted for.
The ACA is a near mirrored image of a Bi-partisan, during a GOP governor (Romneycare to you), driven by the Heritage Society, field tested, very successful health program. The designer of Romney care even assisted in the design of the ACA. What problems exist are there because of the 151 changes to the ACA, to include eliminating the single payer option the GOP made to the program. Then the GOP defunded the logistical development of the program while it was being implemented.
Taxes have not been raised for ordinary, non-wealthy Americans to pay for the Affordable Care Act.
Only two Affordable Care Act taxes apply to individuals.
Households with earned income above $200,000 if single or $250,000 if married filing jointly pay an extra 0.9 percent Medicare tax on all earnings over that threshold.
Wealthy investors. There’s also an extra 3.8 percent Medicare tax on "net investment income" such as interest, dividends, and capital gains. But the tax only applies to households with a modified adjusted gross income of more than $200,000 if single and $250,000 if married filing jointly and it is only applied to total investment income or the amount that investment income exceeds those income thresholds, whichever is smaller
Taxes have not been raised for ordinary, non-wealthy Americans to pay for the Affordable Care Act.
Only two Affordable Care Act taxes apply to individuals.
Households with earned income above $200,000 if single or $250,000 if married filing jointly pay an extra 0.9 percent Medicare tax on all earnings over that threshold.
Wealthy investors. There’s also an extra 3.8 percent Medicare tax on "net investment income" such as interest, dividends, and capital gains. But the tax only applies to households with a modified adjusted gross income of more than $200,000 if single and $250,000 if married filing jointly and it is only applied to total investment income or the amount that investment income exceeds those income thresholds, whichever is smaller
1
From MA had RomneyCare (in fact we in MA were stuck with it for at least 2 years after the rest of the country got the ACA, because ours was up and running.). It was the repug version of the ACA. First thing all premiums raised for existing coverage. Companies were "suggested" to stay with same company and plan (at vastly higher premiums). Then little nips and tucks to make sure we paid for almost everything, insurance always had an excuse why "it" wasnt covered. So, we had high premiums, high deductables, couldnt afford to use it, couldn't drop it. Then one year ACA, was better even through company. Then after they said we had to stay with company plan, we switched to medicare (got a letter with medicare saying we didnt have to stay with company plan, we hadnt asked, just worried) and have some insurance company, same basic plan, no premium, usable, only glitch, drug coverage and we are working on that.
Repugs must remember not to tell fibs about RomneyCare. Some people in MA, a very few, lived through it.
Repugs must remember not to tell fibs about RomneyCare. Some people in MA, a very few, lived through it.
The landmark 2013 study by Gerald Friedman, professor of economics at the University of Massachusetts, estimated that implementation of single-payer NHI will save $592 billion annually by cutting administrative waste of private insurers ($476 billion) and reducing pharmaceutical prices to European levels ($116 billion). Those savings would be enough to cover all the uninsured and provide comprehensive coverage for all other Americans, even including dental and long-term care. Co-payments and deductibles will be eliminated, savings will fund retraining of displaced workers and phasing out investor-owned for-profit delivery systems over a 15-year period.
3
Every insured American will see their insurance rates double in the next ten years. During that time millions more Americans will lose their health insurance benefit because it will be too costly for employers. Thousands will die as a consequence of repeal as we know that patients who are uninsured delay treatment, often until it's too late. Thousands of hospitals will close in communities where income will not sustain the hospitals as more patients who have no coverage and no money are paid for by the locality, the insured patients, and cash payers. No multimillionaires or billionaires in your neighborhood? Your hospital will close. This is a moral/ethical/economic/cultural catastrophe! If the ACA is repealed and not replaced we are inviting collapse.
3
So much isnt even done in a hospital anymore. In the 70s my dad had his cataracts done (one of the first to get implants, dont think of before then, awful outcomes). He went into the hospital, had first one done, 3 days later, second done, 2 days later went home. Me, had mine done last fall. Not in a hospital at all. Pre-op at PCP. Eyes done at surgical day care center. First eye, 20 days later 2nd day. $250 charge to center (found out about 3 days before surgery when we were finally given a time) for each eye. Got the better lenses. $1500 each. Besides taking care of the cataract also fixed (almost perfectly) my very severe astigmatism. Automatically fixes nearsightedness (mine was 20/1000, now 25/20 [I see at 25 feet what others see at 20]). Should I have been in a hospital? Probably not, but, never have had surgery before, so no one knew. There are risks taken now with any insurance that werent 30 years ago. Though people are rushed to hospitals for things I got walked home and put in bed for back then. 1. fell down long outside steps onto concrete on face and skidded. Should I have been taken by ambulance to hospital. Would have today, not then. Doctor made house visit next day and was horrified. Said if he had seen me day before I would have been in the hospital. Did I need it? Probably not. Though was left with a memory problem I still deal with. Fixable then or now? Probably not.
Have Republican Senators and Representatives gone mad or started smoking crack? They are planning on repeal portions of the Affordable Care Act but they aren't don't have anything to effectively replace these benefit options with and don't plan on doing so immediately? Their reform strategies haven't been designed or produced yet and will only be done so step-by-step. What will this mean? Health Care Costs will NOT only dramatically increase...access to Health Care will be threatened. More people will end up in the Emergency Room, only after medical situations have reached a crisis point. This will dramatically increase costs, the permanent impact of a number of medical situations, i.e.: the cost of the treating medical situations in advanced stages is dramatically more expensive than treating these same situations in early stages. Also, the strain and stress on Emergency Room Care will dramatically increase. And the cost of younger, healthier people going without insurance will dramatically effect the overall health of our nation. Younger, healthier people are the generation having babies or preparing to have children. Their health and well-being is important to preventing many health conditions and well-being of infants pre pregnancy and post pregnancy. Then we have the Baby Boom generation, which is aging and will as a population have more increased health challenges. WHY is this so difficult? Look at Canada and Sweden as examples of working Medical Systems.
3
Us Boomers are organizing to make sure that as each of us ages into Medicare, it is there for us. As a whole we have been a generation of taking less so everyone else has more. No more. Try to change Medicare (its good, not perfect) and we will fight. Try to add more taxes, fees, payments, so you young people can have cheaper insurance, and we may have to come home and spank you. We raised you, consigned loans for you (car, school, home) that we didnt get until well into our 30s, you want in your 20s. Buy a used car, rent an apartment, work 2 jobs, dont start a family until you can afford it. Even love your potential kids enough to not have them if you cant afford to feed, clothe, keep healthy, them. I did. I dont like having to pay taxes for people to have 5 kids, or even 1, that they cant afford to take care of. Because it's a "right". Nope, no right to having kids. People who cant conceive? Insurance should not cover in vitro, save billions there. If you want it , save up for it. It has nothing to do with health. Only a need to have the newest toy on the block. Sign a document that the 2 of you cannot get divorced and both must pay, to raise the child. Have to actually make a permanent commitment to that child. All assets to be put in child's name at birth, until finished all schooling (different for each child), including grad school, medical school, law school, etc. Its called tough love. Save like your life depended on it, dont trust the government to be there as promis
1
ACA Medicaid costs more than $100 billion per year. And, while it is available to all 50 states, only about 30 participate. It covers those from 100% of the poverty level to 133% . But because providers often bar Medicaid recipients from their practices, the benefits received by those covered are ridiculously substandard. 66 days to see a family physician, 46 days to see a gynecologist, and 10 weeks to see a dermatologist in Boston; 32 days to see a cardiologist in DC; and 18 days to see an orthopedic surgeon in San Diego.
With the unreasonable wait times for Medicaid patients, the emergency room remains a principal option. Most of those added by the ACA are Medicaid expansion patients. They pay nothing for their health care and that's pretty much what it's worth. For the government to pay more than $100 billion for woefully inadequate medical care is nothing short of scandalous. As usual, the interests of the poor are widely overlooked. Any fair assessment of ACA Medicaid has to conclude that it is a failure. Trump won't fix it. But the loss of coverage by Medicaid recipients will result in frequent visits to the ER, which is not much different from what happens now.
With the unreasonable wait times for Medicaid patients, the emergency room remains a principal option. Most of those added by the ACA are Medicaid expansion patients. They pay nothing for their health care and that's pretty much what it's worth. For the government to pay more than $100 billion for woefully inadequate medical care is nothing short of scandalous. As usual, the interests of the poor are widely overlooked. Any fair assessment of ACA Medicaid has to conclude that it is a failure. Trump won't fix it. But the loss of coverage by Medicaid recipients will result in frequent visits to the ER, which is not much different from what happens now.
3
It is such a simple premise: We are all in it together!
The poor and lower middle class send their children to fight for the country at a disproportionate rate. "An analysis of recruiting data revealed that low- and middle-income families are supplying far more Army recruits than families with incomes of more than $60,000 a year." Can't we start our patriotism by straightening out the Affordable Health Care program that provides for so many poor families?
It should be the most basic right in the wealthiest country in the world. Reducing health care coverage is just one more way of transferring the wealth up to the country's wealthiest.
Let the eat cake; no make that take two Aspirin and don't call me in the morning.
The poor and lower middle class send their children to fight for the country at a disproportionate rate. "An analysis of recruiting data revealed that low- and middle-income families are supplying far more Army recruits than families with incomes of more than $60,000 a year." Can't we start our patriotism by straightening out the Affordable Health Care program that provides for so many poor families?
It should be the most basic right in the wealthiest country in the world. Reducing health care coverage is just one more way of transferring the wealth up to the country's wealthiest.
Let the eat cake; no make that take two Aspirin and don't call me in the morning.
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At 66 what do you think of Medicare? Do you want the youngins to climb in with us, after not paying for 50 years or so, to get it? And lower what needs to pay, and up the percent it pays, until in 20 years they get it FREE? After we have paid for it all along?
Democrats, supported by the liberal media, are using their usual strategy of fear to energize the uninformed. Yes, if you repeal ObamaCare and make no other changes, 18 million people will not have subsidized ObamaCare policies or Medicaid. Access to health care will be unaffected for some five million of them: those that currently have insurance but cannot access health CARE because they do not have the cash to meet their deductibles of $1000-$12000.
Further, you have to assume that the Republicans will not be smart enough to put in place substitute programs to allow the 18 million to be better off than they are now. Which will actually be fairly easy to do while decreasing the total cost to the federal government.
There are some estimates floating out there that claim repealing the law costs $300 billion over ten years. But that assumes that $0.8 trillion in taxes imposed by the Democrats are repealed and that Medicare spending increases by $1.1 trillion over the next ten years. So deficit increases $1.9 T, subsidies to big medicine and Medicaid decline by $1.6 T, leaving a net cost of $300 billion.
It is absurd to suggest that Medicare spending is going to increase by $1.1 T if you repeal O'Care. So assume that those savings still exist. Reduce taxes imposed by Democrats by half. That converts the $300 billion cost to a $1.2 T gain. Spend $0.6 T to give the 18 million a better solution and come out $0.6 T to the good.
Further, you have to assume that the Republicans will not be smart enough to put in place substitute programs to allow the 18 million to be better off than they are now. Which will actually be fairly easy to do while decreasing the total cost to the federal government.
There are some estimates floating out there that claim repealing the law costs $300 billion over ten years. But that assumes that $0.8 trillion in taxes imposed by the Democrats are repealed and that Medicare spending increases by $1.1 trillion over the next ten years. So deficit increases $1.9 T, subsidies to big medicine and Medicaid decline by $1.6 T, leaving a net cost of $300 billion.
It is absurd to suggest that Medicare spending is going to increase by $1.1 T if you repeal O'Care. So assume that those savings still exist. Reduce taxes imposed by Democrats by half. That converts the $300 billion cost to a $1.2 T gain. Spend $0.6 T to give the 18 million a better solution and come out $0.6 T to the good.
If ripping health insurance away from 18,000,000 people and enduring the disastrous effects is what will finally wake people up to the obstructionism and cruelty of the Republican Party, then so be it. Even if it means people lose their homes due to medical bills or die from cancer or lose their children. And I hope at least some of those people, especially the ones who voted for Trump, riot in the streets.
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I see a lot of comments here about how the Republican party is heartless, ideological, bought and paid for by special interests, indifferent to actual facts, etc. All of which I pretty much agree with. So I keep asking myself over and over, how is it that they manage to hoodwink enough voters to control state legislatures, governorships, the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, and now the Presidency of the U.S. too? What is wrong with the Democratic Party?
Gerrymandering
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Free beer. Thats how. Just like the Romans near the end had free bread and circuses for the lower class. Come see the lions shred the Christians who are the ones to blame for your condition! With Trump it was free beer and his yelling all the things they have whispered for years. NOT our fault, its the "others" fault. That is why we are lazy, slugs. "Others" work too hard, make us look lazy (we are, but, hey its our RIGHT!). While giving ever more free beer, Trump screamed I will give you everything you want. Most of us knew he was lying. Its all he does. When the ACA bites the dust, and the chumps are uninsured as usual, he will tell them to blame it on Obama. And, stupid as they are, they will. Ask em how it is President Obamas fault, they will say IT IS IT IS IT IS!!!! Master Trump says it is, so it is. In one way he is exactly like them. No, not poor. But, uneducated, crooked, perverted, white trash. Because he isnt poor he has had paid for diplomas, paid for ways out of military service, paid ways out of everything he has done wrong his whole life. In truth, he is worthless, immoral, indecent. The trash love him, because he is THEM!
The interesting fact that no one mentions is that once the 18 to 32 million insured lose their coverage, it will take years, if ever, for them to become whole again: difficult to duplicate their insurance premiums, difficult to get the same coverage, difficult to find doctors willing to take their insurance.
The Republicans have not thought out the complexities of health care in this country, they have merely chanted the mantra of "Repeal."
The Republicans have not thought out the complexities of health care in this country, they have merely chanted the mantra of "Repeal."
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I find it interesting that the GOP like to holler about personal accountability -- everyone taking accountability for their needs and actions -- yet want to remove the accountability mandated by the Affordable Care Act.
People who refuse to get healthcare, then end up in emergency rooms and hospitals and the rest of us paying that bill -- that's what the ACA tried to eliminate, by opening up access to healthcare for everyone. And yes, the requirement to buy in to it. Just like people have to buy auto insurance if they drive, and have to pay into Social Security and Medicare. Just like they have to pay taxes for all sorts of services like education, infrastructure, defense. The healthcare system is a national life-or-death and quality-of-life system that we need drastically, and it needs to function. Just like these other systems, with all of us participating.
So GOP -- explain how your actions on ACA reflect your vaunted embrace of personal accountability?
People who refuse to get healthcare, then end up in emergency rooms and hospitals and the rest of us paying that bill -- that's what the ACA tried to eliminate, by opening up access to healthcare for everyone. And yes, the requirement to buy in to it. Just like people have to buy auto insurance if they drive, and have to pay into Social Security and Medicare. Just like they have to pay taxes for all sorts of services like education, infrastructure, defense. The healthcare system is a national life-or-death and quality-of-life system that we need drastically, and it needs to function. Just like these other systems, with all of us participating.
So GOP -- explain how your actions on ACA reflect your vaunted embrace of personal accountability?
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Commenters here almost universally sing the praises of the ACA and bitterly denounce Congressional Republicans and Mr. Trump for seeking a better answer for health insurance regulation in the U.S. (Make no mistake: Obamacare is mainly health-insurance regulation. There are a few initiatives regarding actual care delivery that are doing nothing to lower the cost of care - and some major rules for the hospital/medicine industry that are driving consolidation, reducing competition and raising prices in markets across the country.) But the sputtering contempt on display is evidence not of deep concern for humanity but, instead, political obstinacy and self-righteousness. Until you're ready to say, "The ACA was a nice try with some positive impact but significant failings," you're just aping a party line. Until you're ready to listen to alternatives with promise for lowering costs while maximizing the number of insured (short of a very problematic move to single-payer, we'll never see 100% coverage), you're just holding your breath and stomping your feet. Health technology has advanced to a level that is too expensive to provide without limit to all. That is the final, sad truth about healthcare everywhere in the world. Declaring access to healthcare without restriction to be a "right" doesn't fix that problem. Shifting costs only shifts the problem around.
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With all due respect, the Republicans have had years to formulate an alternative and have not presented any plan that addresses your concerns.
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georgeoyo, you can't report on something that doesn't exist yet and I am unaware of any formal proposal in either bill or cabinet nominee/president-elect for what replacement would contain. That's the whole point of the article--you can say what repeal will do but we don't yet know what replace means. That may be theoretical for some but not for those of us who would go from very expensive insurance to no insurance at all due to pre-existing conditions. Remember, the loss of insurance is a double whammy, since those without insurance pay double or more the costs for everything from surgery to aspirin than those covered by insurance because the insurance carrier gets huge discounts off the rate sheet while uninsured consumers get none. CBO's estimate doesn't include that, which is what is truly crippling.
2
In part, the Affordable Care Act is financed by taxing wealthier Americans: individuals earning over $200k ($250k for couples) pay more in the medicare payroll tax; there is also a 3.8% capital gains tax for those with significant unearned income. This added revenue helps defray the cost of premium subsides etc. to less affluent Americans. Households at that income level represent the the top 5%, or about 15 million men, women and children. Repeal could mean $1000s in lower taxes to this sliver of the silver-spoon set. Throw in the tax credits that are a feature of virtually every Republican plan announced thus far, and it becomes very clear that the wealthiest among us will be the real beneficiaries of "repeal and replace." The Republicans have already done the math: the 18 million lower and middle-income people who will lose health insurance are irrelevant when juxtaposed with the 15 million members of the donor class. As always, follow the money.
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http://www.cbpp.org/research/federal-tax/aca-repeal-would-lavish-medicar...
"ACA repeal would significantly raise taxes on about 7 million low- and moderate-income families due to the loss of their premium tax credits — worth an average of $4,800 in 2017 — that help them buy health coverage through the health insurance marketplaces and afford to go to the doctor when needed.."
"The benefit of eliminating the unearned income Medicare contribution tax would be extremely tilted to the highest-income and wealthiest individuals, given the concentration of wealth among the highest-income filers. In 2017, millionaire households would receive a tax cut averaging $39,040 apiece (1.7 percent of after-tax income), TPC estimates show. Millionaires would receive a full 85 percent of the tax cut
CBO estimates that eliminating this provision alone would cost $223 billion over 2016 to 2025.
http://www.cbpp.org/research/health/repeal-of-health-law-would-undo-impr...
In my opinion, clearly, Republicans put party over country in their zeal to destroy the Affordable Care Act, despite enough information to document that millions will lose insurance, and insurance providers will flee. And Medicare will suffer. No one will benefit, except millionaires.
"ACA repeal would significantly raise taxes on about 7 million low- and moderate-income families due to the loss of their premium tax credits — worth an average of $4,800 in 2017 — that help them buy health coverage through the health insurance marketplaces and afford to go to the doctor when needed.."
"The benefit of eliminating the unearned income Medicare contribution tax would be extremely tilted to the highest-income and wealthiest individuals, given the concentration of wealth among the highest-income filers. In 2017, millionaire households would receive a tax cut averaging $39,040 apiece (1.7 percent of after-tax income), TPC estimates show. Millionaires would receive a full 85 percent of the tax cut
CBO estimates that eliminating this provision alone would cost $223 billion over 2016 to 2025.
http://www.cbpp.org/research/health/repeal-of-health-law-would-undo-impr...
In my opinion, clearly, Republicans put party over country in their zeal to destroy the Affordable Care Act, despite enough information to document that millions will lose insurance, and insurance providers will flee. And Medicare will suffer. No one will benefit, except millionaires.
3
What has baffled me for a long time is why there is so little talk of the business case for universal health care. I read a report like this one: http://digitalcommons.wcl.american.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1132&... -- which lays out the case for promoting economic growth and reducing employment through universal healthcare -- and I start scratching my head.
If making American businesses competitive is an urgent priority, which, it appears from the election results, it is, then why are we saddling our businesses with having to cover, to one degree or another, their employees' health insurance premiums? Why are we locking employees into jobs solely to hang on to their insurance when universal coverage could unleash their entrepreneurial aspirations? The report suggests answers as to why there has been resistance by the business community to universal healthcare (i.e., increased payroll tax), as well as info/reasons that overcome those objections.
As much as I believe wholeheartedly in the moral argument for universal healthcare, I have to wonder what would happen if the argument were turned on its head? Instead of focusing on the fairness of covering all of our citizens, what if the argument instead stressed how we trail so many other countries (who have universal healthcare) on measures of economic competitiveness? If universal healthcare can make American businesses more competitive and bring back jobs, isn't that an argument worth mentioning?
If making American businesses competitive is an urgent priority, which, it appears from the election results, it is, then why are we saddling our businesses with having to cover, to one degree or another, their employees' health insurance premiums? Why are we locking employees into jobs solely to hang on to their insurance when universal coverage could unleash their entrepreneurial aspirations? The report suggests answers as to why there has been resistance by the business community to universal healthcare (i.e., increased payroll tax), as well as info/reasons that overcome those objections.
As much as I believe wholeheartedly in the moral argument for universal healthcare, I have to wonder what would happen if the argument were turned on its head? Instead of focusing on the fairness of covering all of our citizens, what if the argument instead stressed how we trail so many other countries (who have universal healthcare) on measures of economic competitiveness? If universal healthcare can make American businesses more competitive and bring back jobs, isn't that an argument worth mentioning?
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I am so generally curious to hear the answer to these questions. I've been thinking the same for some time now. Could it really come down to just partisan politics? And how is it possible that I would still find that surprising?
1
Karen- you make an an outstanding point. The ACA has already done a lot for entrepreneurship and small business. I cannot imagine why congress is so willing to yank this out from under these businesses. According to the US Treasury, One out of every 5 ACA customers - 1.4 million people- was a small-business owner, self-employed or both. https://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/tax-policy/tax-analysis/Documen...
That was the 2014 number, I'm certain it is many more now.
Imagine the growth if we actually made ourselves competitive with virtually all of the rest of the civilized world by offering universal healthcare.
If you are reading this, call your representative and senators and voice your outrage. Calling works.
That was the 2014 number, I'm certain it is many more now.
Imagine the growth if we actually made ourselves competitive with virtually all of the rest of the civilized world by offering universal healthcare.
If you are reading this, call your representative and senators and voice your outrage. Calling works.
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Karen, your reasoned and well argued comment actually misses the real reason why the Republicans would be against the business case you make: their right wing paymasters are fundamentally (religiously?) opposed to the federal government. To them the ACA smacks of Public Health. If/when the ACA is dismantled, next they'll (further) undermine public education. Those are the marching orders of Secretary of Education nominee Betty DeVos.
2
Obamacare becomes Mar-a-Lagocare.
...and when premiums increase next year, Republicans will still blame Obamacare. The more things change in DC, the more things stay the same.
Trump has been supported, cheered and elected by the same people who would suffer from an unaffordable healthcare. Is the common sense dead or are the GOP members just a bunch of sadists?
What we as a country, and especially the media, need to start admitting is that the current batch of Republicans do. not. care. They don't care that people don't like what they're doing/proposing. They do these things not for the people, but for their own sense of pride and power. They continue to be re-elected so that "must" be the right thing to do.
How many polls and low approval ratings do we need to see until we own up to this and realize that holding them "accountable" is just not going to work? They have the current system so entangled in their own gerrymandering and politics it will take a lot of effort to break this pattern.
How many polls and low approval ratings do we need to see until we own up to this and realize that holding them "accountable" is just not going to work? They have the current system so entangled in their own gerrymandering and politics it will take a lot of effort to break this pattern.
You mean I might only have to pay for my insurance and not some freeloaders? So when you get to the downside of the rest of us not having to pay for the insurance of 18 million others with outrageous premium increases let us know.
1
You don't seem to understand how insurance works...
I think you have missed the entire Obamacare issue and who pays for those who are not paying for their coverage. Obamacare as the Supreme Court ruled is a tax to pay for health care of those with no money--which is why it is failing. So it is actually you who do not understand how the system is working--but of course it really is not working--which is why we have the problem.
Republicans do not have a replacement because they are fundamentally against the concept of the government paying for anything. They do not want social security, medicare or medicaid. Their replacement is nothing. If they felt that they could do something about Obamacare, they would have something by now. Their replacement they will present is a facade or shadow of something meaningful.
1
Here's what the Republicans will tell you: No one will be denied health insurance because of a pre-existing condition. Here is what they won't tell you: The cost of health insurance for those with pre-existing conditions (and remember, anyone with high blood pressure or cholesterol, even if controlled with maintenance drugs, will be considered to have a pre-existing condition) will be so high most won't be able to afford it anyway (at least not without incurring steep debt). Under Republican plans we can also look forward to a return to self-underwriting - applications that require provide 10 years' worth of health ailments. Inadvertently forget something? Look forward to having your insurance rescinded should you become seriously ill, no matter how unrelated that doctor visit for say, an earache, may be. When a member of my family needed health insurance pre-ACA, I called the doctor for 10 years' worth of records. They said with some exasperation that doing so could take months - if possible at all. Problem is, the insurance was needed in a month. The truth is, the self-underwriting is intended to be a trap.
4
Reminder: being a human being is a pre-existing condition. No matter how well you eat, exercise, sleep, don't smoke, etc., you are still mortal. Thin people still get diabetes; non-smokers get lung cancer; marathon runners can get hit by a bus on their way to work, and sedentary smokers sometimes live to 110. Everyone ages and dies and will need some level of increased health care during the process.
Health care should no longer be a for-profit industry. It should be a fundamental right. Obamacare was a tiny step in the right direction, and the fact that the GOP wants to eliminate it with no viable alternative demonstrates that the only people they believe deserve health care are the rich and steadily employed by the same corporations. So much for compassion and the entrepreneurial spirit!
Health care should no longer be a for-profit industry. It should be a fundamental right. Obamacare was a tiny step in the right direction, and the fact that the GOP wants to eliminate it with no viable alternative demonstrates that the only people they believe deserve health care are the rich and steadily employed by the same corporations. So much for compassion and the entrepreneurial spirit!
4
Strange timing here, almost as if the Obama administration pushed for this bit of PR right at this moment. As if the actual Republican replacement bill is not a huge factor in how they would score this...
The CBO was famously off about the costs of Obamacare in the first place; it seems it is joining a long list of federal entities that the American people can no longer fully trust. (IRS, VA, FBI, DOJ, CIA, Secret Service, NOAA...)
The CBO was famously off about the costs of Obamacare in the first place; it seems it is joining a long list of federal entities that the American people can no longer fully trust. (IRS, VA, FBI, DOJ, CIA, Secret Service, NOAA...)
The Heritage Foundation, Gingrich, Romney and Obama "health care reform" is failing, in practice. This article mentions that premiums will sky rocket, after repeal. I think a 20% increase, on average from last year to this year, is not "sky rocket"?
The ACA's biggest problem, was not buy insurance or pay a fine, it as no cost containment, state insurance boards creating rating territories, drug companies preventing drug cost containment, doctors wanting a bigger slice of the pie, surprise out of network costs and drug companies/hospitals/clinics charging as much as the market could bear.
So, here we are about to fall back to 2010, the good old days of health care. High risk pools, denied coverage, life time caps, etc., etc. And insurance companies getting 30 cents on the premium dollar in profits, with again being territorial monopolies.
Yes folks, like our last election, there was bad, ACA, and worse, pre-ACA. Not only are we going to go back to pre-ACA, The VA, Medicare and Medicaid are going to go with it. No nanny state here. You stay alive, if you have money; you die if you don't; simple as that. Oh, yeah, you know that Social Security check you were looking to get? Well, that will be reduced or eliminated, because of so called disability fraud or you are too wealthy to receive Social Security retirement (low middle class and up).
Yes, folks we are going back to the about 1910, thanks to our greedy wealthy class and self serving politicians.
The ACA's biggest problem, was not buy insurance or pay a fine, it as no cost containment, state insurance boards creating rating territories, drug companies preventing drug cost containment, doctors wanting a bigger slice of the pie, surprise out of network costs and drug companies/hospitals/clinics charging as much as the market could bear.
So, here we are about to fall back to 2010, the good old days of health care. High risk pools, denied coverage, life time caps, etc., etc. And insurance companies getting 30 cents on the premium dollar in profits, with again being territorial monopolies.
Yes folks, like our last election, there was bad, ACA, and worse, pre-ACA. Not only are we going to go back to pre-ACA, The VA, Medicare and Medicaid are going to go with it. No nanny state here. You stay alive, if you have money; you die if you don't; simple as that. Oh, yeah, you know that Social Security check you were looking to get? Well, that will be reduced or eliminated, because of so called disability fraud or you are too wealthy to receive Social Security retirement (low middle class and up).
Yes, folks we are going back to the about 1910, thanks to our greedy wealthy class and self serving politicians.
8
As long as the 1% does not have to pay their fair share of Medicare tax on their capital gains income. The 1% don't worry about which doctor - they already have the best doctors.
Democrats, Independents and compassionate Republicans have one obvious, ready-made political argument: "Trump doesn't care." Doesn't care about you, me, our nation. He cares about himself, his family and his magnificent company. He's told us as much about the company countless times, and I grant him feelings for his family. Haven't heard him praise our USA. "Make it great" doesn't suggest love of country, with its faults, as is. Just the opposite.
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When was the last time the "left" praised our country?
1
I see you are upgrading some Republicans. What a desperate state you are in. Not to mention that if governor Brown also sees this then you may receiving a 'personal video'.
Perhaps we could reach a compromise whereby health insurance is rescinded only for those who voted Republican.
31
And researchers wonder why life expectancy in the US is lower than in other western nations. It's anxiety, pure and simple - in civilized countries, the individual worry over how to access and pay for health care is altogether absent.
19
@CJ - you are absolutely correct. Every other industrialized nation on earth have "single-payer" health care. It is paid for by the citizens taxes and, guess what, the citizens are glad to pay those taxes. They are taken care of from birth to death.
If you mention taxes in the U.S. you have an incredible outcry and as a result they continue to elect incompetent republicans to congress who vote lock-step with what their so-called "leaders" (that term is a joke) tell them to. The many many votes in the House of Representatives to repeal the ACA is a perfect example.
Well, now they are in for it having elected an ignorant, illiterate, uncaring, mysogenistic, egomaniac as President. Just remember, DT knows how to do it better than anyone else on earth - although he never says what "it" is.
If you mention taxes in the U.S. you have an incredible outcry and as a result they continue to elect incompetent republicans to congress who vote lock-step with what their so-called "leaders" (that term is a joke) tell them to. The many many votes in the House of Representatives to repeal the ACA is a perfect example.
Well, now they are in for it having elected an ignorant, illiterate, uncaring, mysogenistic, egomaniac as President. Just remember, DT knows how to do it better than anyone else on earth - although he never says what "it" is.
1
All you people who think you know what's going to happen over the next four years should try the stock market.
7
That is just silly. Projections by the CBO have been used by both parties to help lawmakers and the public understand the costs of governance. Passing laws without doing these types of projections is reckless.
Keep in mind that the Republicans in Congress WILL NOT lose their premium healthcare paid with our taxes. Only the stupid peasants will lose...
32
No one is addressing the elephant in the room: the for-profit nature of much of the health insurance industry.
Prior to Reagan's presidency, most of the industry was non-profit. The insurance industry had an antitrust exemption so that they could compare rates and payments across providers.
Perversely, once the Blues began converting to for-profit status, they continued to enjoy their antitrust exemption. Now, instead of fighting for lower costs in order to provide lower rates, they squeeze providers in order to provide greater profits and salaries to their bloated payrolls.
Why do we need this leech sucking the blood of the nation's healthcare? It adds nothing to the nation's productivity. It adds nothing to the national life expectancy.
Single payer now. Medicare for all.
Prior to Reagan's presidency, most of the industry was non-profit. The insurance industry had an antitrust exemption so that they could compare rates and payments across providers.
Perversely, once the Blues began converting to for-profit status, they continued to enjoy their antitrust exemption. Now, instead of fighting for lower costs in order to provide lower rates, they squeeze providers in order to provide greater profits and salaries to their bloated payrolls.
Why do we need this leech sucking the blood of the nation's healthcare? It adds nothing to the nation's productivity. It adds nothing to the national life expectancy.
Single payer now. Medicare for all.
40
Design your own single payer on Medicare if you want. But, keep your tiny little pea pickin hands off my Medicare. It works. If you add the rest of the country it wont. It could but with changes. The Seniors of this country have been paying for years, and when enrolling, finding they must pay more every quarter. So, youngsters, no easy way out for you. Take the blueprint, size it up to cover everyone else. Build it. Then see if you can get it passed. If you do, spend 20 years fixing it, as nothing is perfect. After all that, and everyone is enrolled, paying their Medicare tax every payday, paying their Single Payer tax every payday, paying their quarterly payment to single payer every quarter. All working. Millions of new federal workers working hard at fixing all the problems, insurance companies (think you get rid of them? Medicare didnt. Gotta pick one when you sign up)trying to sneak in a little more for themselves without getting caught. New this year? lab tests, ex-rays, MRIs, all used to be paid for, no copay. Now $10. Not each, but, all in one place same day $10. Get sent to a bunch of places? $10 each. Not too bad when you are working, but, once you are on SS (if it survives), that can be a lot.
Absolutely, completely, 100% not.
The Republicans have WASTED millions of tax dollars these last years in 47(?) attempts to repeal the ACA. All the while they enjoy the best healthcare available free of charge for life.
These attempts are shameful, elitist, selfish, petty acts of racism. I wonder how they can live with themselves? These purported "public servants" are anything but.
We need to do EVERYTHING possible to throw the bums out. "Drain the swamp"?
I am angry to watch our country headed down the drain.
I hope those fools who voted them all in are happy now. We all will pay for their blind stupidity.
I recall PEEOTUS elect Trump saying, "I love the under educated." I hope he loves the uninsured just as much.
These attempts are shameful, elitist, selfish, petty acts of racism. I wonder how they can live with themselves? These purported "public servants" are anything but.
We need to do EVERYTHING possible to throw the bums out. "Drain the swamp"?
I am angry to watch our country headed down the drain.
I hope those fools who voted them all in are happy now. We all will pay for their blind stupidity.
I recall PEEOTUS elect Trump saying, "I love the under educated." I hope he loves the uninsured just as much.
33
I agree that republicans waste millions of tax dollars in an attempt to repeal, and millions more on worthless investigations. Please do however get your facts right. As employees of the government, congress and senate members pay for their healthcare like any other government employee and it is not for life unless they put in enough time for retirement benefits.
He enjoys watching people die of their own stupidity. He still doesnt realize he is one of them. I think he thinks he is going to live forever. Wrong! No one does. No one has ever gotten out of this life alive. Oh to be a fly on the wall when he does.
If he does know it, I bet his will is going to be a riot. With his need to be the only important person in the Universe, I see writing a will that has everything he owns (even those things his kids figure will be theirs) sold. Then every penny going for a monument of HIM, the size of the Russian peoples ginormous monument to those who fought and died in WW2. To them it is appropriate. One of Trump here, is only worthy of being blown up. Which will also take his fortune (all of it spent on said statue) and have it go poof. His kids will be broke. Perfect.
If he does know it, I bet his will is going to be a riot. With his need to be the only important person in the Universe, I see writing a will that has everything he owns (even those things his kids figure will be theirs) sold. Then every penny going for a monument of HIM, the size of the Russian peoples ginormous monument to those who fought and died in WW2. To them it is appropriate. One of Trump here, is only worthy of being blown up. Which will also take his fortune (all of it spent on said statue) and have it go poof. His kids will be broke. Perfect.
So after Congress spent countless hours and millions of dollars they came up with ACA. Now the same people with a few changes will try and get rid of it, costing countless hours, and spending millions of our money again and will try and get another plan approved. Sounds DUMB !!!! lets focus on things that we can help grow besides the Politician's egos. I hope Trump realizes what he is doing and about to do is NOT to make America stronger but weaker and fractured. His poll numbers have reached the highest they will as he is regressing as we approach D day - friday
15
"So after Congress spent countless hours and millions of dollars they came up with ACA. "
This should read "So after the democrats spent countless hours and millions of dollars to come up with obamacare to buy the votes of the uninsured with subsidies."
This should read "So after the democrats spent countless hours and millions of dollars to come up with obamacare to buy the votes of the uninsured with subsidies."
The reality is my premium for my wife and I went up 400%. Absurd
I do not mind paying for the risks associated with our life choices but do not jam me with the burden to carry others who choose differently or just do not work..
Obama care is dead and none too soon.
I do not mind paying for the risks associated with our life choices but do not jam me with the burden to carry others who choose differently or just do not work..
Obama care is dead and none too soon.
9
No one person every pays for the cost of their health care. Insurance is based on the concept that we all put money into the pot to take care of the sick. No one person every pays all of their health care costs with their premiums. Out costs are always covered by a group. I don't know your plan or where you get it but premiums on standard policies across the nation did not go up 400%. That suggests something very unusual about your situation.
3
Exactly. Our deductible went up by thousands of dollars and the plan was gutted (lost dental among other aspects). Maybe I'll be able to afford health insurance again.
We have a saying in my profession (psychology) that sometimes the patient has to hit the wall --before they see the folly of their ways. Mr. Tellthetruth, 400% will be the lowest premium increase you see before you beg for some kind of affordable health insurance relief.
3
Shameful and irresponsible republican spiteful act, that of repeal without a suitable replacement. An outrage. Sure hope there is a price to be paid. Those being left 'orphan' of the lifesaving ACA must rise and crush the racist mongers in their midst. Unbelievable.
41
The act itself is what was/is irresponsible. Unbelievable that any Americans would opt into such an outrageous scheme that harms their rights and finances to the extent this unbelievable act has done and continues to do. It is self imploding as we speak, and if you don't do something about it, the cost of 18 million their health insurance will be trivial.
"...the Trump administration could, by regulation, mitigate some of the effects on insurance markets and premiums..."
Yes, and Trump could, by use of logic and common decency, sound semi-intelligent. And while we are at it, the GOP could, by a miracle of God, sound like they care about the common man.
Yes, and Trump could, by use of logic and common decency, sound semi-intelligent. And while we are at it, the GOP could, by a miracle of God, sound like they care about the common man.
48
Why care.
2
And guess what will happen?
As the horrific effects of repeal take hold, the Republicans will try to blame every one of them on Obama and the Democrats, and leave out the fact that Republicans did not do a SINGLE THING to improve or replace the ACA.
NOT A SINGLE THING.
Nope. Instead, they busied themselves fretting over who was using which bathroom, and emailz.
As the horrific effects of repeal take hold, the Republicans will try to blame every one of them on Obama and the Democrats, and leave out the fact that Republicans did not do a SINGLE THING to improve or replace the ACA.
NOT A SINGLE THING.
Nope. Instead, they busied themselves fretting over who was using which bathroom, and emailz.
30
Have the people in North Carolina had to start carrying their certified birth certificates with them to show the guards at all public restrooms yet? Only way those ninnies will be able to keep the "wrong" kind out you know. Figured there would be an article by now. Fights. Peeing in the corridor. Things like that. No guards? Well, I would just ignore that silly law then.
1
The problem with ACA -- which Democrats refuse to see -- is the COST. It is NOT "affordable" for most American families. Single-payer now!
9
What part of: The ACA was a start. No one said it was anywhere near perfect, however, it was the best the repugs would let us have. Don't you understand? Even a single payer system is going to cost. Think Medicare is free? Gee I thought so, after paying the Medicare taxes for all these years. First they hit you with you gotta pick an HMO or a Medicare advantage plan. Ok you do that. Now you are all signed up with both starting on the same day (not as easy as that sounds). Then a couple months later you get a bill from Medicare, which they inform you, you must pay quarterly (and it hasnt settled down to the same amount each time yet either, not in 3 quarters). Pick an HMO with no premium (we did), works very well, except for drugs. The deductible is so high, and they add a portion onto whatever drugs you must get, so that a script from Walmart would cost you $6 for 90 days, costs several hundred dollars for 90 days. They dont have all drugs, so its sort of a hunt and pick process. I have some there, and a couple still with the "cheaper way" of mail in prescriptions. We noticed when we got Medicare HMO, it was from same company hubby got insurance from before we aged out into Medicare. No deductables (very nice), good coverage, except drugs as mentioned above. For almost exactly the same amount we were paying through hubbys company. Only difference is that we pay Medicare instead of the insurance company. And quarterly instead of weekly. Do your reasearch. Don't be surprised.
Obviously the democrats would have instituted a single payer system if they could have. They had to fight tooth and nail with the obstructionist republicans just to get the ACA passed.
1
Well that's it going to happen! You'd rather repeal and hope that Republicans do the right thing despite what they've said and done over the last 8 years?
Most of the people who will lose their health care are in red states, right? No problem--just tell 'em JESUS is now their health care plan.
38
It might take a health insurance market and unfortunate man-made human healthcare tragedy for voters to flip the system in terms of electing a majority who would enact universal healthcare. Obamacare may turn out to be the straw that broke the camel's back and sent it humping with insurance to an orthopedist and not the emergency room again. Republicans are so against Obamacare because they know it portends universal healthcare.
9
"Republicans are so against Obamacare" also because the 1% finally had to pay Medicare tax on their capital gains income. Before the 1% never paid their fair share of Medicare tax.
A BIGLY tax cut is coming for the 1% with the repeal. That's what the Party of the Rich care about too.
A BIGLY tax cut is coming for the 1% with the repeal. That's what the Party of the Rich care about too.
1
Why is it that a group of rich white men who already enjoy free government-sponsored health care are so eager to prevent their fellow Americans from enjoying those same benefits? The answer should tell you a lot about the kinds of lowlife scum we keep sending to Congress.
52
Biggest problem is the good guys wont run. I have been saying for years that if someone wants to be president or a congressman or a governor, they should be institutionalized for life. They are dangerous. If someone says they would rather commit suicide than hold one of those offices, elect them immediately and beg them to stay alive for the countrys sake. I am NOT kidding.
We need to help wake up our fellow citizens, who believe that somehow what the Republicans are intent on doing is NOT going to benefit anyone but the rich. My heart aches at the confusion and misinformation that has been put forth by the callous and, let's face it, seemingly sadistic GOP. The members of Congress supporting the rollback of the ACA have NOTHING to replace it.
They have been counseled against their intent by countless professionals, hospital administrators, insurance executives, doctors.
Republican governors have asked them not to do this, but they can't help themselves as they gleefully cackle at the misery they are wringing out of the poorest and most vulnerable amongst us. Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell's legacies are going to be finished when this fiasco is enacted. Nice work...as if they even care for a minute.
They have been counseled against their intent by countless professionals, hospital administrators, insurance executives, doctors.
Republican governors have asked them not to do this, but they can't help themselves as they gleefully cackle at the misery they are wringing out of the poorest and most vulnerable amongst us. Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell's legacies are going to be finished when this fiasco is enacted. Nice work...as if they even care for a minute.
21
I have hopes enough of us will live, procreate, and send our thoughts down through history to Ryan's and McConnells decendents that they live only because we allow them to. Our decendents should make sure theirs never are allowed so much as a free glass of water. And everything they buy automatically costs them 100% more than for anyone else. They will curse their ancestors. Fitting for 2 such as them I think.
I think if the ACA were to stay as is, at the ACA’s present rate of increase American’s will be working for their health care and living off welfare in the next 8 years. lol
6
Duh. No one is suggesting it stay as it is. However, a single payer system, like most advanced countries, could possibly work...as it does elsewhere.
The GOP as usual, is getting ready to shoot themselves in the foot. Their overwhelming desire to spit on their fellow Americans by terminating an imperfect system without trying to ameliorate the ACA's shortcomings is pure GOP shoot first, think later. Are we dealing with Adults?
24
No, never have been, never will be. They are of the "I demand everything for me! To afford it the country must kill everyone else. So?"
So, the people trained and hired to assess such things tell us that if Congress repeals the landmark legislation meant to reduce the millions of people uninsured and contain the relentless rise in medical costs... if Congress repeals that legislation then millions of people go back to being uninsured and costs go back to rising uncontrollably? That's sort of like saying if you pull the plug on the life support machines the patient will probably die.
13
In order to make the repeal economically sustainable, Congress would have to pass a law granting Emergency Rooms the right to turn away the uninsured.
6
All uninsured. Even the wealthy. OR sign a document on admission (if unconcious you better have someone with you who can sign) turning every asset your family owns over to the hospital. Don't worry, if it isnt all spent youll get the leftover buck back. Otherwise, you wont be allowed in the door. Just send those without insurance to the local incinerator.
No different from how it is under the ACA. Cost of care for low/no income very illl passed on to healthy.
Oh, but you know the Congressional Budget Office is Democratic, just like the climate is not changing and Democratic Presidents are by their nature illegitimate.
Time to dust off an old word that (supposedly) had been banished with the 1776 American Revolution: TYRANNY..or the T-word...as in we've been trumped (pun intended).
The repubs have outdone themselves with another word which they use 24/7 for pavlovian kontrol of the masses: terrorism...as in healthcare terrorism...as in economic terrorism which are all inflicted on hardworking American citizens. No need to look for them bad people outside of the Congressional walls.
The repubs have outdone themselves with another word which they use 24/7 for pavlovian kontrol of the masses: terrorism...as in healthcare terrorism...as in economic terrorism which are all inflicted on hardworking American citizens. No need to look for them bad people outside of the Congressional walls.
10
Now all you chumps who voted for this tyrant are getting payback. Have a nice day.
25
The only way we will have health care for all in this country is only after there have been massive MASSIVE protests. There is just too much money at stake for a few very rich individuals and key organizations.
15
Quite a thorough analysis of only half the equation.
You forgot the part about replacing Obamacare.
How is this news? Half news?
You forgot the part about replacing Obamacare.
How is this news? Half news?
2
If you didn't get the memo, there is no replacement plan. The republicans right now are too busy trying to decide where to start the fire...
Move to a swing state and vote like your lives and your planet depend on it, fellow Democrats.
16
Time for single payer and cover everyone. That is, unless, the repulsives want to simply deny insurance....
27
Trumplethinskin said "Insurance for everybody!"
Hurrah!
Hurrah!
1
If you are concerned, call your Congressperson or Senator, it's as simple as that:
- House of Representatives - http://www.house.gov/representatives/find/
- Senate - https://www.senate.gov/senators/contact/
Stop wringing your hands and use them to pick up the phone. Then you'll be able to say you participated in the discussion.
- House of Representatives - http://www.house.gov/representatives/find/
- Senate - https://www.senate.gov/senators/contact/
Stop wringing your hands and use them to pick up the phone. Then you'll be able to say you participated in the discussion.
9
What is "fake news"?
1
What is "fake news"? Read the NY Times, watch CNN, CNBC and the rest of the network crowd. Fake news sells newspapers and viewers.
Fake news is the new term for age old propaganda.
Medicare is going bankrupt within 10 years with current status. Add more people to it and it blows up, while many physicians walk away from the profession.
https://www.wsj.com/amp/articles/social-security-medicare-trust-funds-fa...
https://www.wsj.com/amp/articles/social-security-medicare-trust-funds-fa...
The sky is falling, courtesy of the Wall Street Journal.
Not buying it. I work in health care and most doctors I know love Medicare.
Not buying it. I work in health care and most doctors I know love Medicare.
Right, which is why our elected "leaders" need to stop squabbling and come together and fix it, with input from all major players, and then add everyone.
Thinking is hard!
Thinking is hard!
Are there no prisons?
Are there no workhouses?
Are there no workhouses?
11
Exactly the words that came to mind for me as well, Mr Brown. I've thought for years that the republicans real icon is Scrooge. The party of Lincoln should be renamed Down With People, for that is what drives them. And now, controlling all branches, they are in position to achieve the dream they have held since the Thirties, the complete rollback of the New Deal, and the Progressive accomplishments of the first President Roosevelt along with it. It is truly a Dickensian world that awaits us. Pete McGuire, Atlanta
what are all these people who are using obamacare were thinking when they went to vote last november ??
did they think that repugnant repubs will make health care free for them ;)
think about these 20 million people who are going to lose healthcare.
why did they not vote for dems ?????????????
did they think that repugnant repubs will make health care free for them ;)
think about these 20 million people who are going to lose healthcare.
why did they not vote for dems ?????????????
7
The 19 million people who will lose their Medicaid coverage did vote overwhelmingly for Hillary. In future years, I'll be more than happy to buy a tailored catastrophic policy for my wife that doesn't cover kids up to age 26, drug rehab, maternity care, etc. because she doesn't need features such as this that have been crammed down our throats in the one-size-fits-all ACA policy we have this year. And the $3000 tax credit that will be available under the Republican replacement plan should just about cover her premiums, so we'll be three grand ahead of where we are today. Plus we'll get a tax deduction for the money we put into a health savings account.
1
Mr. Trump keep your promise abolish all of ACA now.
5
You can't possibly believe he will.
Let me guess: you are not one of the 18M whose healthcare is jeopardized?
Any family members, co-workers, neighbors that rely on this form of healthcare?
I would love an honest answer to learn why this is so important to you.
Any family members, co-workers, neighbors that rely on this form of healthcare?
I would love an honest answer to learn why this is so important to you.
Prompt and preventative health care is less expensive than emergency and delayed healthcare. When an uninsured person goes to the emergency room, who do you think pays their bill??
13
Classic New York Times "Could raise costs" COULD. They have not even read the Republican replacement, but they irresponsibly speculate and fire people up...all to attack Trump, of course.
I would love to read the official Republican replacement plan. Can you tell me where to find a copy?
2
fake news, this is not the plan that will be put forth, why would the Times print something they know is not true.
1
Usual reasons. Fan the flames. Keep the base happy. Sow fear and confusion. Get clicks.
What is the plan?
A little thing called "reality" is catching up with this administration quickly. Too bad that the people who voted in this mess didn't care to look into its policies or plans beyond chanting "Lock Her Up" or "Make America Great Again". That said, I will fight hard to try to block any changes to the ACA that leave anyone without coverage. It's the right thing to do.
14
Obamacare stinks! High deductible, then 50% copay before the insurance kicks in. Also, you have to pay high premiums. Read the commits. People pro-ACA must have union plans, company plans, Medicaid/ Medicare or getting it for free. They like it for other people to have Obamacare.....because if they used Obamacare they would NOT LIKE IT.
3
The ACA is helping me pay half my premium for a plan based on preventative care, to keep me healthy. I am self-employed, and hire workers as sub-contractors that I cover for work-related injury. My deductible is reasonable. I like my plan and I can't afford it without the ACA. I'll be back to no insurance when I can't afford it. If anything happens, I'll go to the emergency room, and then I'll be bankrupt, and I'll lose my business. This is not the best America can do, come on.
1
Actually, I am pro-ACA, self-employed, and BUY our family insurance in the individual market. Prior to the ACA, our rates were steadily going up each year on private plans. Our rates actually went down the first couple of years - even without factoring in the tax subsidies - once the ACA kicked in. With the ACA, it was a relief to know that we could change insurance companies without having to risk being turned down or having a waiting period for treatments of certain medical issues. In the past, I have been turned down for insurance because I had been treated for depression within two years prior to my application. Depression! Getting help for something that needed to be monitored before it got out of hand! Also, being of child-bearing age, I couldn't take the chance of switching companies - even if I found a different company that might have had better rates, coverage, or physician access - because there was a 12-month waiting period on any plan before deliveries were covered. A normal delivery can run $12K-15K; a c-section much higher. Just two of many ways the ACA has benefited our situation. Yes, the rates on the marketplace have run wild, and our plan selection was down to two this year. I think that is more the fault of the greedy insurance companies, as well as laughable "penalties" for those who don't want to purchase insurance. The ACA may not be perfect, but it has helped a lot of families provide insurance for their families.
1
Maybe red-state, lower and middle income voters (AKA Trump supporters) SHOULD have their ObamaCare taken away. I know that sounds harsh and cruel. But living a few years with watching family members perish without health care may, once and for all, get the message across that the ACA really wasn't the problem:
The real enemy was misinformation about the Act.
The real enemy was misinformation about the Act.
14
They have theirs and who cares about anyone else. Republicans think they are the only ones who work, care about their country, or have God on their side. I don't know how you can say you are a religious person when you don't care about your fellow man. Talk about Death Panels!
16
Want lower prices for health care ? Stop unnecessary treatment.
These NYT stories explain the problem.
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/07/25/too-much-medical-care
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/08/27/overtreatment-is-taking-a-harmf...
https://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/10/health/some-older-patients-are-treate...
These NYT stories explain the problem.
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/07/25/too-much-medical-care
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/08/27/overtreatment-is-taking-a-harmf...
https://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/10/health/some-older-patients-are-treate...
Between Ryan and McConnell, they could care less. For the Obamacare recipients who voted for Trump, it was not like you were told over and over what he was going to do. Now that you are going to have all those jobs that he has promised, you should be able to pay for your higher insurance costs. Right? If you believe that, I have some swampland in Florida to sell you.
10
I am LIVID to hear this # rise to 18M...I was an ACA insured and with the rise from Anthem Blue Cross to over $700 per month, I jumped ship and am now w/Kaiser....less $ and no fear of what these UNCONSCIONABLE elected officials are doing to people of all incomes but especially those in dire need of healthcare. We have to fight this!
I swear I'll end up in the emergency room w/chest pains from the stress of this horrid, vengeful, empty suit of a President taking office on Friday.
I swear I'll end up in the emergency room w/chest pains from the stress of this horrid, vengeful, empty suit of a President taking office on Friday.
29
Not to take any of the onus from Trump, only the Republican Senators and Representatives are the ones that voted for the repeal. I doubt that their proposed replacement will be any better than the ACA aka Obamacare, which also had provisions to fund Medicare longer.
Be aware that only the Republicans ever wanted to repeal it. Also, anytime the Republicans want to privatize anything, taxpayers will have higher costs. Don't trust them on their or Trump's future infrastructure bills either.
Be aware that only the Republicans ever wanted to repeal it. Also, anytime the Republicans want to privatize anything, taxpayers will have higher costs. Don't trust them on their or Trump's future infrastructure bills either.
You'd think after six years and 60 odd votes to repeal ACA Republicans would have a solid, well thought out alternative ready to go. With Obama out of the White House they're like the dog that finally catches the car. Glee fades to bewilderment. "Hey any of you fellas remember why we hate this so much?"
I love it that Vladimir's #1 fanboy keeps raising expectations on a replacement. Keep telling everyone how GREAT it's gonna be, Donald. Even your dumb as rocks supporters will know you are a fraud very soon.
I love it that Vladimir's #1 fanboy keeps raising expectations on a replacement. Keep telling everyone how GREAT it's gonna be, Donald. Even your dumb as rocks supporters will know you are a fraud very soon.
26
Here's what I'm missing - why isn't it this simple...
> Get rid of the Medicaid expansion...There're states that didn't buy into the "free money" of Medicaid expansion - which the Federal Government had no more of an intention of making good on, than they did for "risk corridors"...So - the states that expanded are like Wile Coyote, levitating off of a cliff
> Get rid of the mandate - period...All sorts of ripple-effects, but this is where Obama revealed himself as a totalitarian despot...Just get rid of it...
> Get rid of the subsidies...Not only are they a severe stealth tax and wealth redistribution, they give the lie to every pharma who offers "financial aid" for their extortionately-priced wares...
Now...Children till 26...Pre-existing/catastrophic conditions...Have at them all...But get rid of the Obamajunk...
70 hours and counting...
> Get rid of the Medicaid expansion...There're states that didn't buy into the "free money" of Medicaid expansion - which the Federal Government had no more of an intention of making good on, than they did for "risk corridors"...So - the states that expanded are like Wile Coyote, levitating off of a cliff
> Get rid of the mandate - period...All sorts of ripple-effects, but this is where Obama revealed himself as a totalitarian despot...Just get rid of it...
> Get rid of the subsidies...Not only are they a severe stealth tax and wealth redistribution, they give the lie to every pharma who offers "financial aid" for their extortionately-priced wares...
Now...Children till 26...Pre-existing/catastrophic conditions...Have at them all...But get rid of the Obamajunk...
70 hours and counting...
5
You're missing quite a bit, you obviously have no idea how health care work or any idea of risk pools, demographics etc. You might want to start reading some news before you comment on it.
1
"Get rid of the mandate - period...All sorts of ripple-effects, but this is where Obama revealed himself as a totalitarian despot...Just get rid of it..."
There is nothing despotic about this. Whether people wish it were otherwise or not, tax payers pay for people without healthcare in the form of emergency services. The cost of that healthcare would be considerably lessened if conditions were not allowed to progress to the point of life-threatening illness. Thus, as long as you feel entitled to have an ambulance and emergency room to treat people, it is only responsible that the government reduce the costs of doing so to the greatest extent possible. Unless you take the position that it is also despotic for the government to force taxes on people to pay for emergency healthcare services, I don't see the threat to anyone's liberty. The public already pays for universal healthcare. Full stop. The only question is what kind of healthcare we receive for our money and how much we will pay in the long term.
This is not a foreign concept. Non-parents contribute money for the education of children who are not their own. Federal taxes collect from big city income finds its way to the heartland (and vice-versa). I don't have kids, but I don't want the children around me to wallow in ignorance. I don't live Middle America, but they are a part of this country and should participate in any prosperity (ideological differences notwithstanding). Nothing despotic there either.
There is nothing despotic about this. Whether people wish it were otherwise or not, tax payers pay for people without healthcare in the form of emergency services. The cost of that healthcare would be considerably lessened if conditions were not allowed to progress to the point of life-threatening illness. Thus, as long as you feel entitled to have an ambulance and emergency room to treat people, it is only responsible that the government reduce the costs of doing so to the greatest extent possible. Unless you take the position that it is also despotic for the government to force taxes on people to pay for emergency healthcare services, I don't see the threat to anyone's liberty. The public already pays for universal healthcare. Full stop. The only question is what kind of healthcare we receive for our money and how much we will pay in the long term.
This is not a foreign concept. Non-parents contribute money for the education of children who are not their own. Federal taxes collect from big city income finds its way to the heartland (and vice-versa). I don't have kids, but I don't want the children around me to wallow in ignorance. I don't live Middle America, but they are a part of this country and should participate in any prosperity (ideological differences notwithstanding). Nothing despotic there either.
1
That is exactly what the Republicans tried to do in 2015 with H.R. 3762 aka Restoring Americans’ Healthcare Free- dom Reconciliation Act of 2015. The first part of the repeal bill proposed would eliminate the tax penalty, basically requiring everyone to get insurance. It would have also repealed the expansion of Medicaid, and the subsidies available to people to purchase insurance from the insurance marketplace created by the ACA.
If they did do that - based on the Republican bill from 2015 - two main things would happen (quoted from the CBO and JCT document): "The number of people who are uninsured would increase by 18 million in the first new plan year following enactment of the bill. Later, after the elimination of the ACA’s expansion of Medicaid eligibility and of subsidies for insurance purchased through the ACA marketplaces, that number would increase to 27 million, and then to 32 million in 2026."
and
"Premiums in the nongroup market (for individual policies purchased through the marketplaces or directly from insurers) would increase by 20 percent to 25 percent—relative to projections under current law—in the first new plan year following enactment. The increase would reach about 50 percent in the year following the elimination of the Medicaid expansion and the marketplace subsidies, and premiums would about double by 2026."
If they did do that - based on the Republican bill from 2015 - two main things would happen (quoted from the CBO and JCT document): "The number of people who are uninsured would increase by 18 million in the first new plan year following enactment of the bill. Later, after the elimination of the ACA’s expansion of Medicaid eligibility and of subsidies for insurance purchased through the ACA marketplaces, that number would increase to 27 million, and then to 32 million in 2026."
and
"Premiums in the nongroup market (for individual policies purchased through the marketplaces or directly from insurers) would increase by 20 percent to 25 percent—relative to projections under current law—in the first new plan year following enactment. The increase would reach about 50 percent in the year following the elimination of the Medicaid expansion and the marketplace subsidies, and premiums would about double by 2026."
All other industrialized countries have some form of universal government run health care, mostly single payor. They get better care as measured by all 16 of the bottom line public health statistics, and they do it at 40% of the cost per person. If our system were as efficient, we would save over $1.5 TRILLION each year.
www.pnhp.org & www.oecd.org, especially
http://www.oecd.org/els/health-systems/oecd-health-statistics-2014-frequ...
Some data:
Here are the per capita figures for health care costs in 2013 in PPP dollars (which take cost of living into consideration) from the OECD:
OECD average - 3463
US - 8713
UK - 3235
France - 4124
Australia (similar obesity) - 3966
Germany - 4919
Denmark - 4553
The Netherlands - 5131
Canada - 4361
Israel - 2128
Let;s compare some bottom line statistics between the US and the UK which has real socialized medicine.
Life expectancy at birth:
UK - 81.1
US - 78.8
Infant Mortality (Deaths per 1,000):
UK - 3.8
US - 6.0
Maternal Mortality (WHO):
UK - 9
US - 14
If you want to bring up the VA, let me point out that any program no matter how well thought out can be ruined by lack of funding and incompetence. (One can combine these two by regarding lack of funding as incompetence on the part of Congress.) As Einstein said,
"The difference between genius and stupidity is that genius has its limits."
www.pnhp.org & www.oecd.org, especially
http://www.oecd.org/els/health-systems/oecd-health-statistics-2014-frequ...
Some data:
Here are the per capita figures for health care costs in 2013 in PPP dollars (which take cost of living into consideration) from the OECD:
OECD average - 3463
US - 8713
UK - 3235
France - 4124
Australia (similar obesity) - 3966
Germany - 4919
Denmark - 4553
The Netherlands - 5131
Canada - 4361
Israel - 2128
Let;s compare some bottom line statistics between the US and the UK which has real socialized medicine.
Life expectancy at birth:
UK - 81.1
US - 78.8
Infant Mortality (Deaths per 1,000):
UK - 3.8
US - 6.0
Maternal Mortality (WHO):
UK - 9
US - 14
If you want to bring up the VA, let me point out that any program no matter how well thought out can be ruined by lack of funding and incompetence. (One can combine these two by regarding lack of funding as incompetence on the part of Congress.) As Einstein said,
"The difference between genius and stupidity is that genius has its limits."
30
I am a supporter of universal healthcare, but people need to start looking at the reality of nationalized programs.
I recently experienced the NHS in the UK with a family member living in England. English healthcare is indeed less expensive. But I would suggest it is because they don't get much. No American would have tolerated the "norm" I saw in one of their better hospitals; for example, missed...not late...medications being among the least egregious. The NHS is underfunded and falling apart. The system is designed to prevent the worst outcomes, but does nothing to promote the best outcomes. I don't think Americans will settle for that compromise.
The problem here is complex, but basically I think we want very expensive healthcare. The problem is no one wants to pay for it.
I recently experienced the NHS in the UK with a family member living in England. English healthcare is indeed less expensive. But I would suggest it is because they don't get much. No American would have tolerated the "norm" I saw in one of their better hospitals; for example, missed...not late...medications being among the least egregious. The NHS is underfunded and falling apart. The system is designed to prevent the worst outcomes, but does nothing to promote the best outcomes. I don't think Americans will settle for that compromise.
The problem here is complex, but basically I think we want very expensive healthcare. The problem is no one wants to pay for it.
It would be ironic if this gets us to single payer healthcare or an expansion of medicare because the market for private health insurance collapses.
8
Single-payer, take the profit out of healthcare. What a wonderful outcome that would be... given that the GOP's and Trump's plan is no plan at all...
It is of interest that this article is organized in the NYTimes under "Politics" rather than, say, "Business." It is otherwise a non-sequitur: the new Administration's substitution proposal is not yet tabled. Wait for facts and data.
3
The report was based on the last passed Republic healthcare plan. That is the fact.
We won't get facts or data- we will get Twitter Bread and Circus's!
I just tried to call Paul Ryan to express my honest plea for preserving ACA, the only health insurance I have. The health care I depend on. Guess what? No one answers the phone!
Maybe others can get through- the number is (202) 225-0600
If the ACA can be improved upon, then fix it in a carefully considered manner. But don't place millions of lives at risk by jettisoning ACA to gain political points. That would kill more people than 9-11 and could easily be considered a terrorist act.
Maybe others can get through- the number is (202) 225-0600
If the ACA can be improved upon, then fix it in a carefully considered manner. But don't place millions of lives at risk by jettisoning ACA to gain political points. That would kill more people than 9-11 and could easily be considered a terrorist act.
23
I wrote to my Senators, (Toomey, Casey) and my representative (Cartwright). The only response I received was from Cartwright, and it was a form letter. I was very specific in my thoughts, clearly expressing that I was dismayed by the fact that owning a gun is a right, yet health care is a privilege, bestowed upon those who can afford it. I also expressed what is to me, obvious. Lack of health care will kill more Americans than ISIS ever will. The answer to this conundrum is a single payer system. The insurance companies and their well-pained lobbyist will never allow that to happen. Add to the mix, big Pharma, and the majority of the AMA and you leave some with no other option than to accept death as a reality to a treatable illness. This shame on the United States should leave all other countries questioning our values and our leadership in the world.
The article states that 18 million would lose their coverage immediately upon repeal of the ACA and the number of uninsured would increase to 32 million over the next decade. How is this possible when we currently (still) have 20 million uninsured before repeal? Wouldn't this mean we'd have 38 million uninsured immediately and 56 million uninsured after ten years?
4
The article states, "A repeal could increase the number of uninsured Americans by 32 million in 10 years". Note the "by 32 million".
It means we would go from 20 million uninsured to 38 million uninsured after the first year, but you'd have to compare the projected number of uninsured Americans under ACA in 2026 to the projected number of uninsured Americans without the ACA in 2026.
It means we would go from 20 million uninsured to 38 million uninsured after the first year, but you'd have to compare the projected number of uninsured Americans under ACA in 2026 to the projected number of uninsured Americans without the ACA in 2026.
@Jeff
Yes! I don't know the actual number, but it's likely not "56." Sorry -- That wasn't so much the result of bad math as cursory reading and/or sloppy keyboarding. Even accepting the numbers given at face value, 50 to 52 million seems a more likely estimate, if we assumed the current uninsured as a result of being untouched by the ACA remains constant -- undoubtedly a questionable assumption.
Yes! I don't know the actual number, but it's likely not "56." Sorry -- That wasn't so much the result of bad math as cursory reading and/or sloppy keyboarding. Even accepting the numbers given at face value, 50 to 52 million seems a more likely estimate, if we assumed the current uninsured as a result of being untouched by the ACA remains constant -- undoubtedly a questionable assumption.
Why don't we just offer to members of Congress and their families the same options that they settle on for those Americans who don't have access to insurance through their employers? No reason that Congress should have a gold plated plan at taxpayer expense, while ordinary Americans are relegated to HSAs, into which they can save $5,000 of their own money, pre-tax. That won't even cover premiums for a high deductible plan for a year! And don't get me started on the high risk pools -- which didn't work before Obamacare and will be entirely unaffordable this time around, too. And what the GOP never mention is that the prohibition on exclusions due to pre-existing conditions, and the no lifetime limit provisions, and the keep your kids on your plan until they turn 26 provision, disappear for all of us when Obamacare is repealed -- unless you're lucky enough to live in a blue state, like MA or CA, which protects it's citizens through their own state regulation of insurers).
20
Wow, a lot of hatred toward Republicans in these comments. I'm not a supporter of Trump or the GOP, but I did have to purchase insurance through Obamacare this year and I can tell you....that system is a mess. Somebody needs to fix it, and if that happens to be Republicans, fine.
I'm open to at least listening to better ideas. And I don't think Trump is stupid enough to preside over 18 million people losing insurance. Millions of whom will probably lose it anyway if Obamacare stays as it is, because the system is unsustainable.
Frankly, I'm sick of hearing about Obama's "signature piece of legislation." Even if the whole thing is repealed, the Obamas will still have gold-plated health care for life. It's the rest of us who have to muddle through a deeply flawed system and basically add another mortgage payment to our monthly budgets, all to end up with insurance you can hardly use.
So let's see what Trump can do. I know millions of Americans would love to have a better option.
I'm open to at least listening to better ideas. And I don't think Trump is stupid enough to preside over 18 million people losing insurance. Millions of whom will probably lose it anyway if Obamacare stays as it is, because the system is unsustainable.
Frankly, I'm sick of hearing about Obama's "signature piece of legislation." Even if the whole thing is repealed, the Obamas will still have gold-plated health care for life. It's the rest of us who have to muddle through a deeply flawed system and basically add another mortgage payment to our monthly budgets, all to end up with insurance you can hardly use.
So let's see what Trump can do. I know millions of Americans would love to have a better option.
5
We will see what Trump can do whether we want to or not. Most of us think he isn't telling us what is plan is because he doesn't have one. Trumps only plan seems to be to repeal ACA, then let people go back to having no health care.
So this is Trump and the GOP's big chance. We are eager to be amazed. But there is something suspicious about an administration that will not say what its plan is.
So this is Trump and the GOP's big chance. We are eager to be amazed. But there is something suspicious about an administration that will not say what its plan is.
10
Best to wait because most of these reports are based on nothing. Literally, no replacement, which is not reality-based.
Don't hold your breath.
Can the NYTimes create a map illustrating where the users of the ACA are compared to how they areas voted in the Presidential race. It could be a useful tool for the National Guard to use when being alerted to the riots that may occur when the voters realized they were duped.
28
Not a whole lot left out.
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2016/11/16/us/politics/the-two-ameri...
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2016/11/16/us/politics/the-two-ameri...
We should be able to get the same quality healthcare they get or maybe they agree to go on the new health care program they set up for us. That would be a test of what they intend to do.
14
They should have done that in 2009..... they got a waiver. They should get what we get. Plain and simple
I'm sure if Congress is required to go into the market for insurance, they will create a plan that mandates coverage for all staffers and pages—creating a younger, healthier group. On the other hand, I wonder what company would insure just the Senate at market rates and standard underwriting!!
Which is the SAME THING we Americans asked of President Obama and the Democratic congress (in 2010) when they shoved this terrible Obamacare on the nation without gaining a single Republican vote!
By the way, Obama and the Democratic congress of 2010 did NOT choose to go on the same plan....so why should Trump?
By the way, Obama and the Democratic congress of 2010 did NOT choose to go on the same plan....so why should Trump?
There is a silver lining here --finally Congressional leaders and the President Elect will be taken to task for their lies and bungling about healthcare for all Americans. While this process is going to cause a lot of American's unnecessary pain and something they absolutely do not deserve because they have made their opinion known for years now -- they WANT health insurance -- single payer government run coverage -- they WANT insurance just like the President and Congress have -- the people have spoken a hundred different ways and the answer has always been the same, so getting to the bottom of just why (most Republicans) are obstructionist on this point will be enlightening and will, hopefully, FINALLY bring about the change/s that our government sorely needs. It seems that no one -- Democrats or Republicans (and especially the President Elect -- really knows who they are working for. This will be a good wake-up call.
26
There's a lot of things that you have to ask yourself here. I know that my health insurance sky-rocketed over the period that the Affordable Care Act was in effect. If you recall, the amount of people that were supposed to be covered was far less then anticipated. Moreover, these Congressional report are more often than not way off their mark. With this in mind, your have to ask yourself, do you want socialized medicine? I know I don't. I have friends in Canada and England and after hearing the woes of the system, I would steer clear of it. All the people I know that have Obamacare hate it because it is basically not usable. But how do you weave a workable plan without putting the government in control or increasing the cost to the government, which, in fact, we pay for? I did not vote for Trump and what's more I don't like him. Yet I think there are enough knowledgeable people around him to create a plan that might work. Will the Democrats support it? Probably not. They have yet to realize that they lost the election because they did not appeal to enough Democrats and Independents that make up an actually majority of their party. In short, they have lost touch with their constituents, who are for the most part "MODERATES." There is no place for moderates in either party. So the onus with be on the Republicans to formulate a workable plan on their own. If they do not succeed, Trump will be a one term President.
Too bad we can't limit those 18 million to trump voters. They own it, not the rest of us.
80
Too bad we can't get rid of you
My good friend is a Mexican immigrant and currently has an Obamacare plan. That is exactly the reason he became a Trump voter (his words).
Now I'm not expecting you to believe me, but you should believe the verifiable fact that the Obamacare changes will NOT go into effect until a replacement will take over at the minute the Obamacare plans are shut down.
So, what the NY Times doesn't say is that those 18 million people will absolutely lose their Obamacare coverage, HOWEVER, their NEW policies will take effect a split second later.
Now I'm not expecting you to believe me, but you should believe the verifiable fact that the Obamacare changes will NOT go into effect until a replacement will take over at the minute the Obamacare plans are shut down.
So, what the NY Times doesn't say is that those 18 million people will absolutely lose their Obamacare coverage, HOWEVER, their NEW policies will take effect a split second later.
What is getting lost in all the talk about this issue is that the “repeal” of the ACA through budget reconciliation is really all about a huge TAX CUT for the wealthiest Americans. This isn’t just about 18 million people losing health insurance. It is about 18 million people losing health insurance coverage so that millionaires and billionaires can enjoy lower taxes. Let’s frame the argument correctly. It’s not about healthcare … it’s all about greed.
21
Folks seem to think that the GOP does not have an alternative to the ACA. But they do. Rep. Bill Huizenga (R MI) let the "details" of the GOP plan slip just the other day while speaking to his constituents. It's very simple really and can be easily summed up in three words; "use less healthcare!"
18
I can't help but notice that among the comments here from Republican readers, none of them express any concern for any of their fellow citizens while Democratic readers are distressed and outraged at the idea of anyone having to go without medical care.
565
Repubs long since ceded any pretense of holding the moral highground, believing in family/christian values, etc.
7
That's the end result of reflexively rejecting everything that their political 'enemies' promote, and the real problem with an ideology that claims that government, democratic representation chosen by the people, is the problem. They don't want our Democracy because Democracies are designed to help the majority of citizens. The 'competition' they believe in requires winners and losers, and the fallacy is that the more losers they create, the greater the victory will be for them.
1
That was tried in Detroit, which went bankrupt. At that time, some ambulances couldn't run, due to dead batteries, because no one with a brain extends credit to deadbeats.
GOP nirvana, not to be completed until it kills Medicare too.
11
If only ALL these 18 million people would have voted in their own best interest, their healthcare would not be in jeopardy right now.
12
Its easy to fool and brainwash sheep with a bright red hat and an alligator smile.
And probably half those losing insurance will have voted for the Trumpster convinced that it would NEVER happen. I guess they get exactly what the voted for. Couldn't happen to a nicer group of people.
15
If the Republicans believe that the CBO got it wrong or only half right, then let's have them finish their analysis with a copy of the Republican plan. Let's see it! It should be judged not by Republicans, but by an independent agency and the American people! We will let the Republicans know if it meets muster!
8
But only poorer people are affected, so--so what? Right, Don?
12
Where is the closest Obamacare rally / anti repeal protest ?
I've had enough. I pay over $2k a month per employee for health insurance and workmen's comp (health insurance for employees in case of work related injury or illness) is 10% of my labor cost.
Doubling those premiums just because the GOP has absolutely no desire to assist the American people is a flat out outrage.
Prohibiting the CBO from reporting the truth on OUR behalf, is treasonous !
To the barricades Citizens!
I've had enough. I pay over $2k a month per employee for health insurance and workmen's comp (health insurance for employees in case of work related injury or illness) is 10% of my labor cost.
Doubling those premiums just because the GOP has absolutely no desire to assist the American people is a flat out outrage.
Prohibiting the CBO from reporting the truth on OUR behalf, is treasonous !
To the barricades Citizens!
19
Wouldn't repealing ACA result in more people collecting disability insurance? The ACA allows me to work because I can afford to manage my health condition. I wouldn't want to be an excessive burden on taxpayers...
8
I will be compelled to join the ranks of those on disability because just one of the vital prescription drugs I take is equal to 1/3 of my monthly income. The rest of them I could not afford nor could I afford a doctors visit or any other form of care. And by the way, I chose not to be on disability because I can still earn a modest but sufficient income.
1
Don't worry, Republicans will get rid of disability insurance as well.
Repeal will bring disaster, and I guarantee they will somehow try and pin in on Obama. Horrible.
8
The Party of Personal Responsibility ... not take responsibility? Lol.
And the GOP will claim that the cost is all Obama's fault. If he hadn't passed the ACA they would not have had to spend so much to trash it.
11
Yep. And I've read a few times now that Trump himself - his 'rise' - is Obama's fault too.
That's how hateful, racist can be. Would rather see millions of Americans without healthcare just to destroy a Black man's legacy.
14
This is exactly the GOP plan: Anyone who isn't filthy rich should crawl into their Hooverville & die. Those without boots don't deserve bootstraps to pull. Real americans can pay the doctor with a chicken.
9
Actually, the Republicans don't approve of Hoovervilles--aka homeless encampments--either. They want to exterminate all poor people, even while impoverishing huge numbers with their economic policies.
They want it gone because the GOP started calling it Obamacare and now the name has stuck, and they want to erase him completely.
12
You are exactly right! Also, I don't believe the Republicans will ever have a replacement for any of it. They just want the whole thing to disappear.
So many Trump voters wanted "something different." Well, here it is in spades and it's just the beginning.
8
What's the problem? This is exactly what republicans want, and they are engineering to get it. Who could possibly be surprised at this?
If you don't like it, stop voting republican. Simple!
And stop voting for Democrats who won't fight the republicans! They are even worse.
If you don't like it, stop voting republican. Simple!
And stop voting for Democrats who won't fight the republicans! They are even worse.
12
Those who work pay for those who don't.
3
Those who work also subsidize Trump not paying income taxes for over 20 years- does that bother you too?
Living in the United Kingdom and enjoying the luxury of being able to fall ill and only worry about recovering and not about how much debt I am going to get in to, I am relatively well off, but I know that my less affluent fellow citizens enjoy exactly the same privileges. I therefore stand speechless at this debate.
31
Imagine, Gordon, if in order to provide your less affluent fellow citizens with care you were suddenly confined to a few doctors with no other options? Private care was made illegal. All deviations from the government mandate were outlawed. Everyone must get and pay for the exact same bundle of services, except since some cannot pay, you'll pay 4x more. And if you complain you'll be accused of wanting to let people die in the street.
Welcome to Obamacare.
Welcome to Obamacare.
Trumpism is fundamentally dedicated to the dismantling of governmental institutions, and assignment of those roles to business.
It is not committed to the creation of a better product, better service, or the amelioration of societal problems. Its goal is to create private wealth, preferably for a small international business oligarchy.
It is not committed to the creation of a better product, better service, or the amelioration of societal problems. Its goal is to create private wealth, preferably for a small international business oligarchy.
19
If my daughter did not have the ACA, she would be paying over $20,000 per year due to a preexisting condition. It would really be a shame to repeal an act that helps so many people..from low end income to higher. The wonderful thing is that the ACA does not deny someone with a preexisting condition.
This is not "socialism" as many believe...it is a great law that can be made even better with time, and it should not be repealed or replaced.
This is not "socialism" as many believe...it is a great law that can be made even better with time, and it should not be repealed or replaced.
18
"This is not "socialism" as many believe"....Actually, all government is a form of socialism, which is why the Republicans want to get rid of any and all government.
4
The Republican's have never ever cared about insurance for all, hence the continual repeal with nothing to replace it..They do not want a social safety net for anyone other then themselves, they have a nice pension and good insurance , all at the expense of us taxpayers!
They have a great spin machine in the incessant vitriolic talk radio and sadly the evangelical churches for God knows what reason
They do the bidding of the lobby that supports their virtual campaign's
Paul Ryan is a Ayn Rand supporter and absolutely wants to put his theories to the test at the expense of 20 million
They have a great spin machine in the incessant vitriolic talk radio and sadly the evangelical churches for God knows what reason
They do the bidding of the lobby that supports their virtual campaign's
Paul Ryan is a Ayn Rand supporter and absolutely wants to put his theories to the test at the expense of 20 million
14
If you smoke, why should everyone else pay the same premium.
If you are morbidly obese, and there is no underlying medical condition, why should everyone else pay the same premium.
The premiums are what controls people's behavior.
You avoid an auto accident and tickets because it affects your premium.
Same difference.
If you are morbidly obese, and there is no underlying medical condition, why should everyone else pay the same premium.
The premiums are what controls people's behavior.
You avoid an auto accident and tickets because it affects your premium.
Same difference.
5
If you are injured when you are hit by a truck running a red light, why should you pay more?
If you are born with a congenital problem why should you be charged a higher premium?
If your genetics predispose you to breast cancer is it your fault?
If you live to be 90 should you be required to pay more for Medicare?
Some things are under your control and some are not, but the only reason insurance companies are in business is to make money.
If you are born with a congenital problem why should you be charged a higher premium?
If your genetics predispose you to breast cancer is it your fault?
If you live to be 90 should you be required to pay more for Medicare?
Some things are under your control and some are not, but the only reason insurance companies are in business is to make money.
28
So birth defects that affect one's lifelong health should punish an already unfortunate person to a lifetime of unaffordable care?
19
People who smoke pay a higher rate.
10
Keep your eye on the money: the wealthy stand to significantly benefit from the repeal (and pushed for its repeal) since a tax increase on them helped pay for the ACA. They could care less about their fellow Americans. And clearly they need more millions and billions.
Also blame Fox News, Breitbart, Republicans and Trump supporters who actually believed the lies that undeserving, lazy Americans were mooching off them by having access to health care.
Also blame Fox News, Breitbart, Republicans and Trump supporters who actually believed the lies that undeserving, lazy Americans were mooching off them by having access to health care.
16
I am a physician in a red state. Many doctors here refer to Medicaid patients with iphones as evidence that many of those on Medicaid can really afford healthcare.
These are people who are having billions of dollars going directly into their industry. Trust me, they are not looking much past their taxes and the increase in their own premiums. How does that happen?
These are people who are having billions of dollars going directly into their industry. Trust me, they are not looking much past their taxes and the increase in their own premiums. How does that happen?
The Republican attempt to abolish the ACA and to replace it with 'whatever" comes to mind so long as it no longer has the "Obama" nomenclature is a classic example of putting the cart in front of the horse. Lets see what happens in the mid-term elections!!
9
The Republicans repealing the ACA/Obamacare, is a back door way of getting tax cuts for the mega rich. If the taxes that help pay for Obamacare are repealed, the richest 400 Americans will gain tax cuts averaging $7 million........ each.
This is about increasing income and wealth inequality. It will result in a higher budget deficit, as currently the cost of Obamacare is less than the taxes that pay for Obamacare. Government debt will rise from repealing Obamacare.
So apart from the obvious leg up for the 0.1%, millions of Americans will lose their health insurance, their health will suffer, and some will die as a result of the Republican Party repealing Obamacare.
This is about increasing income and wealth inequality. It will result in a higher budget deficit, as currently the cost of Obamacare is less than the taxes that pay for Obamacare. Government debt will rise from repealing Obamacare.
So apart from the obvious leg up for the 0.1%, millions of Americans will lose their health insurance, their health will suffer, and some will die as a result of the Republican Party repealing Obamacare.
26
Wealth inequality grew under Obama.
ObamaCare contributed to growing wealth inequality because it resulted in big pharma and big, profitable hospital chains increasing the amount they charge for goods and services and in those increases flowing through increased premiums paid to health insurers. [premiums plus adjustments for co-pay and deductible growth have increased both for Obama exchange plans and for employer provided plans] Meanwhile, hospitals serving large proportions of the poor had their Medicaid payments cut.
Under ObamaCare, the rich got richer. As an added progressive bonus, more money was devoted to the drug companies and care providers in big medicine, and less money was devoted to caring for the poor. So the rich and middle class got to pay more for the same services, and the poor had their hospitals closed.
Repealing ObamaCare, and taking money away from big medicine cronies is the only decent and humane course of action available.
ObamaCare contributed to growing wealth inequality because it resulted in big pharma and big, profitable hospital chains increasing the amount they charge for goods and services and in those increases flowing through increased premiums paid to health insurers. [premiums plus adjustments for co-pay and deductible growth have increased both for Obama exchange plans and for employer provided plans] Meanwhile, hospitals serving large proportions of the poor had their Medicaid payments cut.
Under ObamaCare, the rich got richer. As an added progressive bonus, more money was devoted to the drug companies and care providers in big medicine, and less money was devoted to caring for the poor. So the rich and middle class got to pay more for the same services, and the poor had their hospitals closed.
Repealing ObamaCare, and taking money away from big medicine cronies is the only decent and humane course of action available.
I'd like to know if these elected officials chomping at the bit to roll back the Affordable Care Act have ever known anyone with a chronic illness; anyone who has received a catastrophic diagnosis; anyone who takes daily medication in order to live; anyone who has ever been billed for tests or doctors' visits, the costs of which can be prohibitive for those without adequate insurance coverage; anyone who has watched a loved one struggle with illness, be it physical or mental; anyone who has cancer; anyone who has heart disease; anyone who has needed a bone marrow transplant; anyone who has a child with multiple life-threatening allergies; anyone who was in an accident; anyone who needed physical therapy or rehab; anyone who needed palliative care; anyone who had a stroke; anyone with an autoimmune disease; anyone who was pregnant, had a miscarriage, or an ectopic pregnancy, all of which require prompt medical treatment; anyone nervously awaiting test results; anyone who had a bad case of the flu; anyone who broke a bone; anyone who ever went to an emergency room; or anyone who was just sick, period.
No? Well, I've known these people. I've loved them as family and friends, known them as school and work colleagues, and - here's the kicker, Congress - they've also been me. I've walked more than a mile in a couple of pairs of the above-mentioned shoes. Repealing the ACA is to bring down the hammer on the sick, the vulnerable, and anybody one test result away from disaster.
No? Well, I've known these people. I've loved them as family and friends, known them as school and work colleagues, and - here's the kicker, Congress - they've also been me. I've walked more than a mile in a couple of pairs of the above-mentioned shoes. Repealing the ACA is to bring down the hammer on the sick, the vulnerable, and anybody one test result away from disaster.
55
They certainly don't have to buy their insurance because they don't care about people, only themselves.
2
I'm sure they now many with preexisting conditions as well as many who can't afford the ACA an those who are paying for care they'll never need or use and those who are healthy enough to not need health care. ACA was the act that dropped the hammer on the sick by it's stand alone failure.
ObamaCare was designed as a huge gift to big medicine, not as a means of providing access to affordable care. The Republican plan will address your concerns and will reduce the payments flowing to big medicine. Calm down.
How many of these 18 million had a plan they liked and could afford before Obamacare?
Lots.
Lots.
1
Please define lots. While you're at it, please provide the number of people who were on plans that wouldn't actually provide adequate care in the event of illness or injury.
5
Facts please?
4
Josh,
The 18 million plus or minus you refer to were mostly uninsured prior to the ACA. So the correct answer is pretty much none, not lots.
The 18 million plus or minus you refer to were mostly uninsured prior to the ACA. So the correct answer is pretty much none, not lots.
6
If Trump does not denounce the CBO for this report, as he did the intelligence community for its investigation of Russian meddling in the election, then it will confirm what we should already know: he is less committed to defending his party's agenda than he is to defending Vladimir Putin's honor.
7
Trump is smart to ram the repeal and replace through -- or, as Republicans said, "ram it down our throats" -- because the more people learn about what the ACA has really done to help them, even those with employer-based coverage, the more they will resist whatever weak replacement the GOP comes up with. Most people still don't know what good the ACA has done them. But now they have to pay attention and hear about it. And they will have something to compare to the GOP plan. My hope is they will finally say, "This is still not good enough. Give us single-payer and get it over with."
6
Well, insurers will be happy. What's 18 million people, give or take.
3
Well one can't accuse the Republicans of deceit.
They were very clear that repealing the ACA would be very high in their list of priorities.
Since the recent election confirmed the existence to two Americas, legislation should be passed to reflect this.
There should be two healthcare systems in place - the pre-ACA model and the ACA.
If one chooses the former - the pre-ACA model, the person
making that choice should sign a waiver absolving hospitals, healthcare providers and governments - local, state or federal
of the obligation to provide care without guarantee of payment. If they run out of resources or if they find private insurance inadequate
, they should turn to charity or any other
private avenue. Medicaid will also be denied to this group while Medicare will be available as long as witholdings are made throughout a
person's working life.
Those who opt for the ACA model should understand that this will transition to a single payer system with mandates and protections
including premium subsidies and other protections including no lifetime maximums, coverage for pre-existing conditions etc. They should
understand that there WILL be a tax on income which could go up over time.
People chosing the pre-ACA model will be exempted from the above tax.
Given that the US has more than 300 million people, it is possible to have large enough pools in either camp to make them both work.
This is the only way for our polarized society to work.
They were very clear that repealing the ACA would be very high in their list of priorities.
Since the recent election confirmed the existence to two Americas, legislation should be passed to reflect this.
There should be two healthcare systems in place - the pre-ACA model and the ACA.
If one chooses the former - the pre-ACA model, the person
making that choice should sign a waiver absolving hospitals, healthcare providers and governments - local, state or federal
of the obligation to provide care without guarantee of payment. If they run out of resources or if they find private insurance inadequate
, they should turn to charity or any other
private avenue. Medicaid will also be denied to this group while Medicare will be available as long as witholdings are made throughout a
person's working life.
Those who opt for the ACA model should understand that this will transition to a single payer system with mandates and protections
including premium subsidies and other protections including no lifetime maximums, coverage for pre-existing conditions etc. They should
understand that there WILL be a tax on income which could go up over time.
People chosing the pre-ACA model will be exempted from the above tax.
Given that the US has more than 300 million people, it is possible to have large enough pools in either camp to make them both work.
This is the only way for our polarized society to work.
6
I know I should cease to be astounded by the utter stupidity of politicians, but astounded I remain. This issue is simple math: more people covered = lower cost. Tax relief pays for more people to get covered who otherwise couldn't afford it. Tax penalties give incentive for people to participate. Take tax relief and tax penalties away, and we go back to when emergency rooms became the go to for the sick poor people resulting in increased costs driving up premiums for everyone. To have not anticipated the complexity of the math in the repeal effort is the pinnacle of stupidity.
16
Do you think the right would have gone as crazy about the ACA if the President was white? The problem is that many do not see their own bias (including me).
The majority of our representatives think we are stupid and are not deserving of healthcare.
8
"The majority of our representatives think we are stupid"....A lot of people voted for Trump. They maybe right.
5
Don't you just love it? The supposed "masters of the universe" thought liberals and progressives would simply bend over and take the travesty to democracy that their hostile financial takeover of OUR governments is trying to usher in.
No Way! The vast majority of Americans have finally seen their gross underbelly and will not let it stand. Rallies were held across America yesterday to object to their plans to destroy health care for all and hundreds of thousands of people showed up in their home cities/states to OBJECT and DEMAND health care for all be retained.
This is just a start. Last I heard 40 democrats are going to boycott the supposed inauguration - it's actually a takeover show - and more are listening to the people they represent and will not go.
The Women's March on Washington the day after the installation - Saturday, January 21 - is for anyone who objects to any part of the destruction of OUR democracy and looks like it will be the biggest in HIStory. Sister marches in at least 30 cities across America will have large turnouts.
Don't expect the press to report it fully and consider it a bonus if they do. Meantime, social media is the way to get the word out. Let's Do It, Good People of America! Let's make it OUR story!!!
No Way! The vast majority of Americans have finally seen their gross underbelly and will not let it stand. Rallies were held across America yesterday to object to their plans to destroy health care for all and hundreds of thousands of people showed up in their home cities/states to OBJECT and DEMAND health care for all be retained.
This is just a start. Last I heard 40 democrats are going to boycott the supposed inauguration - it's actually a takeover show - and more are listening to the people they represent and will not go.
The Women's March on Washington the day after the installation - Saturday, January 21 - is for anyone who objects to any part of the destruction of OUR democracy and looks like it will be the biggest in HIStory. Sister marches in at least 30 cities across America will have large turnouts.
Don't expect the press to report it fully and consider it a bonus if they do. Meantime, social media is the way to get the word out. Let's Do It, Good People of America! Let's make it OUR story!!!
14
If the subsidies are taken away then it is curtains for me. In the meantime Trump, Ryan and all of the others in favor of the appeal will have great insurance for themselves and their families.
12
It's already "curtains" for many who are paying the premiums but cannot afford to access their health care because they cannot afford the steep out-of-pockets and deductibles. (There's a reason the Obama Administration stopped using "access" as its measure.)
Obamacare is great for the subsidized but not great for millions of others. What we should be aiming for is a solution that protects those who cannot afford health insurance but doesn't strip away the rights of everyone else. No one should be forced to pay ever higher prices for a product that they don't want. They want insurance, just not what the government is forcing on them.
Obamacare is great for the subsidized but not great for millions of others. What we should be aiming for is a solution that protects those who cannot afford health insurance but doesn't strip away the rights of everyone else. No one should be forced to pay ever higher prices for a product that they don't want. They want insurance, just not what the government is forcing on them.
Well, this should cheer all those good Christian Republicans. Think of the tax breaks the millionaires will get! Jesus would be so pleased -- more money for the rich and people losing their health insurance. Paul Ryan's grin will be ear-to-ear.
I wonder how many tens of thousands will die as a result? Not that it should make any difference to the Goons On Parade.
Disgusting.
Make America great again my -- well, let's say foot.
I wonder how many tens of thousands will die as a result? Not that it should make any difference to the Goons On Parade.
Disgusting.
Make America great again my -- well, let's say foot.
12
And how many of those 18 million about to lose their insurance who will have to pay for higher cost policies voted for the president-elect, knowing he was going to repeal the ACA?
This is one of the great untold stories of the GOP: how do they get the people who will suffer the most from their economic and social policies to vote for them over and over again?
Maybe the answer lies somewhat in the pages of "Hillbilly Elegy"?
All those "tax cuts on the wealthy to help create jobs" promises gave us years and years of Reagan, two Bushes and now the president-elect but little job growth and money rocketing, excuse me, "trickling" to the top and incomes for the working and middle class declining in spite of increased productivity.
And yet the same people suffering from these policies vote for the GOP again and again and again...
This is one of the great untold stories of the GOP: how do they get the people who will suffer the most from their economic and social policies to vote for them over and over again?
Maybe the answer lies somewhat in the pages of "Hillbilly Elegy"?
All those "tax cuts on the wealthy to help create jobs" promises gave us years and years of Reagan, two Bushes and now the president-elect but little job growth and money rocketing, excuse me, "trickling" to the top and incomes for the working and middle class declining in spite of increased productivity.
And yet the same people suffering from these policies vote for the GOP again and again and again...
8
You hammer immigration, race and "traditional values", all while praising the Lord. That is the way you get those who were convinced that Obama was a socialist to vote for someone who is a communist sympathizer.
Take the sickest citizens in the country and have them build the wall. It'll probably kill them a tad early but at least you won't have those horrific uninsured numbers.
7
The irony of this whole fiasco of repealing ACA is that Trump is going to hurt the very people whom he promised to help. There is not going to be any comprehensive replacement plan, because if there was,it would have been revealed long time ago by Republicans.
10
I'm not sure that is irony, but it will be comeuppance for people who had ample warning that Trump was not a friend of the working man and woman, but rather a huckster/fraud intent on using their vote to enrich himself.
4
(begin satire) Everybody knows the Congressional Budget Office specializes in fake news and rigged reports. (end satire)
2
good one
America spends twice as much on healthcare as UK or other quality wise comparable countries. Amazingly despite the enormous resources ploughed into the system, it inexplicably has to exclude 10% of the population.
Mr Trump says he is a businessman and will approach the presidency from this angle, would he really accept the maintenance costs to be double the normal standards in one of his real estate ventures?
Mr Trump says he is a businessman and will approach the presidency from this angle, would he really accept the maintenance costs to be double the normal standards in one of his real estate ventures?
3
The UK and other nations with nationalized healthcare do not have capitalist profit motives underlying healthcare. Hence, the billions in extra costs that need to fill the shareholders and billionaires pockets - thank insurance companies above all. All medicine needs to be not-for-profit - we either enter a new century and advance as a species, or kill each other over the most basic of necessities. Shameful.
Why should the Republicans or Trump care about healthcare--they are all covered for life with the best health care money can buy. Same with education. Betsy Devos will "Drain the Education Swamp" of what little money they do get so it can be squandered on the innumerable education "executive" positions that will pop up. It doesn't really matter though, Trump is going to start World War Three finally, so why bother to worry--just enjoy the time you have left. Tick, tick, tick--boom!
13
An analogy: I hire a contractor to build my new house. The house is finished and at the final inspection I notice several things that were not exactly what I had expected. Ie., I asked for granite counter tops and he installed something different. I asked for crown modeling and it's not there, etc.
Rather than my contractor saying "I'll fix these issues", he says lets tear down the entire house and start from scratch. This is exactly what the Republicans are doing and only in government will you ever see such stupidity and waste of money.
Rather than my contractor saying "I'll fix these issues", he says lets tear down the entire house and start from scratch. This is exactly what the Republicans are doing and only in government will you ever see such stupidity and waste of money.
33
The Senate voted 51 to 48 to end coverage for preexisting conditions, veterans benefits, and aid to rural hospitals; to remove discrimination protection for women; to delete coverage allowing children to remain on parents' insurance until age 26; to terminate funding for the Child Heal Insurance Program; to end contraceptive coverage and direct maternity care; and to direct committees to send budget legislations defunding and repealing the Affordable Care Act. Lifetime caps for health coverage through work are back. Efforts are being made to get Senators Corker, Murkowski, Portman and Collins not to support these positions further. Draconian measures across every federal department will be taken to de-emphasize enforcement of progressive regulations put in place by the Bushes, by Clinton and by Obama administrations. Whether the number affected by the repeal of the ACA is 18 or 30 million, the GOP is about to lose the 2018 elections.
18
In my honest opinion none of these two parties could really care if we the people have insurance or healthcare because they get the best healthcare around. What people need to really come to grips with is people it is us the people vs. them it has always been that for a long time. While we are fighting among ourselves, they are positioning themselves, putting things in place. Its time to focus look beyond the media to see what they are really up to, are we are being setup for the final collapse, very well could be, only time will tell. The globalist loves chaos and confusion it helps them further their agenda and another tool they use is labels like Democrat, Republican, Liberal, Conservative, Right Wing and Left Wing it is a way for them to keep the people in control and in fear of each other. Wake up people it is time to smell the roses or coffee as you may say. You have to really look beyond the presidents to see who really controls it all. The Presidents are nothing more than the fall guy and puppet for the Globalists that really run America what better way for them it is like while the people blame the puppet the puppet masters laugh all the way to the bank because they know the people are not paying attention to them at all.
4
The Republican replacement will in "name only" Yes there might be "coverage" but with no government help, no caps on rates, reduce Medicare help, with the tax deductions only for those that earn a lot, basically they are going to game their population (for a while).
So for those on the bottom on the income stack, there will be no health insurance.
So for those on the bottom on the income stack, there will be no health insurance.
14
The ACA has worked well for those who took advantage of the new law. The fact is, it raised the bar on coverage, making insurance companies deliver services they did not deliver before. If we go to a voucher system, people will be severely limited in what they will be able to afford. Furthermore, there are no guarantees that what was delivered by the ACA would be available again, i.e. no lifetime caps, pre-existing conditions covered, kids on parents insurance until the age of 26, etc. The Republicans are playing with fire here, and would do well to keep the ACA in tact, moving only to a single payer system. Reinventing the wheel is an exercise for morons, and this is simply stupid.
29
Working well?
Most people have had no choice but to enroll on the exchange. They lost their individual and employer plans. There they found narrow policies that had very high premiums and out-of-pockets. None of their doctors, specialists or meds were covered. No specialty hospitals either.
Most people have had no choice but to enroll on the exchange. They lost their individual and employer plans. There they found narrow policies that had very high premiums and out-of-pockets. None of their doctors, specialists or meds were covered. No specialty hospitals either.
As a semi-retired physician I present two cases and a comment for your consideration:
Case 1 - A 49 year-old healthy man, due to his profession( self-employed forest worker), was virtually un-insurable prior to the ACA. Without a family history, he developed invasive colon cancer. Within one month of diagnosis, he had started chemo & radiation therapy, and two weeks ago had it removed in toto Yes, he had a large deductible, but he had *something*.
Case 2 - A 49 year-old healthy man (self-employed), who has not had health insurance since his divorce. We talked about why not. Reason - he had heard "rumors" of changes and "clawbacks" of subsidies, therefore, he had never gone further. I "walked him through" a subsidy calculator, andhe is eligible for $3,000/yr in subsidies with a nearly level income (re: the "clawback"). He is now applying for ACA coverage for the rest of 2017.
What these cases have in common is 1) the ACA subsidies work, and 2) the amount of mis-information (and dis-information) has scared potential beneficiaries off, believing they are too healthy to get sick.
We all agree the ACA is not perfect, but it is a start. As I am now on Medicare, I can say wholeheartedly, as a Patient and former Provider, that *it works*. Given that administrative costs in Medicare are 5% of premium dollars, vs 35-30% in private insurance (and yes, my premiums for private insurance before Medicare were those of un-subsidized ACA), single payer healthcare is long overdue.
Case 1 - A 49 year-old healthy man, due to his profession( self-employed forest worker), was virtually un-insurable prior to the ACA. Without a family history, he developed invasive colon cancer. Within one month of diagnosis, he had started chemo & radiation therapy, and two weeks ago had it removed in toto Yes, he had a large deductible, but he had *something*.
Case 2 - A 49 year-old healthy man (self-employed), who has not had health insurance since his divorce. We talked about why not. Reason - he had heard "rumors" of changes and "clawbacks" of subsidies, therefore, he had never gone further. I "walked him through" a subsidy calculator, andhe is eligible for $3,000/yr in subsidies with a nearly level income (re: the "clawback"). He is now applying for ACA coverage for the rest of 2017.
What these cases have in common is 1) the ACA subsidies work, and 2) the amount of mis-information (and dis-information) has scared potential beneficiaries off, believing they are too healthy to get sick.
We all agree the ACA is not perfect, but it is a start. As I am now on Medicare, I can say wholeheartedly, as a Patient and former Provider, that *it works*. Given that administrative costs in Medicare are 5% of premium dollars, vs 35-30% in private insurance (and yes, my premiums for private insurance before Medicare were those of un-subsidized ACA), single payer healthcare is long overdue.
140
It isn't just health insurance these people will lose. Many of them, on the first serious illness (happens all the time), will lose their homes. The ones they worked so hard to build, buy and maintain. In the end, the lords of the hospitals will own those homes. When the people are discharged, they will be lucky to live in a slum or maybe a beat up trailer. Trumpamerica.
59
I have some cousins who never went to college, who struggle each month in low paying jobs, and who have used social services for addicted children, unemployment benefits, disability benefits, food stamps, and/or ACA. They gleefully pulled the lever for DT. I put myself through school, have never received any govt assistance except Pell grants (but I don't begrudge those that do) and my health insurance is excellent and will not be significantly effected at all, regardless what happens to ACA. I happily voted for HRC and was heartbroken at her loss. Go figure.
35
Same situation here. It was sickening to hear these same people, my blood, , whom I witnessed cashing their food stamps and welfare checks and WIC vote for the party that will take it all away from them. Even sadder that one of those same people was hospitalized under ACA For SIX months in a coma and made it through and STILL has insurance.....through ACA....and voted for the dumpster!.
Repealing Obamacare is a symbolic lynching by an angry white mob. That every single insured person gets better health care since the law was passed doesn't matter. The could just change the name- call it Trumpcare -declare victory-its all about hating Obama.
17
Don't worry everybody. After these people lose their insurance, President Trump will come out with a statement that nobody lost their insurance. He will say it over and over again with conviction and denigrate anybody and anyone that calls him out on this. Kind of like the birther movement.
17
I am sure a significant number of the people affected voted for Trump. Self-destructive behavior is built into humanity I suppose!
12
We may just have a scene where the new president will have to veto the bill to repeal. He said they had to replace it at the same time they repealed it. I do not think he is totally clueless. I do think he over estimates the ability of a republican congress to do anything complicated. With the budget office report, this is a train wreck as it stands today.
1
It will be interesting to see how the people who voted for Trump react when their health insurance is taken away. Maybe they'll finally get a clue that voting against their own self-interest has negative consequences.
3
@Christine McM: "But I hope come midterms, this ill-considered decision costs the GOP dearly."
I agree with the sentiment, but I am afraid that the G.O.P. knows that they are playing with a stacked deck and house money. By repealing ACA early, they will better be able to tie it to President-Obama, using the ongoing Trump reality show to distract everyone from their nefarious intentions and the fact that they have done nothing to try to improve ACA, only vote to repeal 60 plus times.
Then, when 2018 rolls around and people start demanding someone is held accountable, they (the G.O.P.) will be protected by gerrymandered districts and voter suppression.
There is evidently no debate in the G.O.P. over healthcare--not as to whether universal access is a basic right, or as to the best way to go about it. Their intentions are ever increasingly clear.
I agree with the sentiment, but I am afraid that the G.O.P. knows that they are playing with a stacked deck and house money. By repealing ACA early, they will better be able to tie it to President-Obama, using the ongoing Trump reality show to distract everyone from their nefarious intentions and the fact that they have done nothing to try to improve ACA, only vote to repeal 60 plus times.
Then, when 2018 rolls around and people start demanding someone is held accountable, they (the G.O.P.) will be protected by gerrymandered districts and voter suppression.
There is evidently no debate in the G.O.P. over healthcare--not as to whether universal access is a basic right, or as to the best way to go about it. Their intentions are ever increasingly clear.
3
I am 60 years old so not eligible for Medicare. I have type II diabetes - a pre-existing condition. If the ACA is repealed, I will be one of the millions who will lose their health insurance. Without insurance my diabetes will most likely kill me. That's real.
12
The Republican establishment doesn't care about any of this. Make the number of uninsured 50 million, 100 million- as long as rich white people maintain their coverage and the teeming hordes of impoverished Trump voters who lose their coverage continue to beleive that it's the Democrats fault, all will be at peace in conservative land.
6
Let's look at the positive aspect of this. After so many lies, the Republicans are doing exactly what they told us they wanted to do. Many who did not believe them, will now have to grapple with the consequences.
8
The Republicans demonized Obamacare since the passage of the ACA. They had years to come up with an alternative, but they have none and never did. The whole GOP caucus was an exercise in political propaganda and hot air. The worst, and most egregious, offender was Paul Ryan. After lying and distorting the truth, Ryan is proved to be the charlatan that he always was from the very beginning of the fight for health care reform. What is he and the Republicans going to do now since they were exposed for the fraud they always were?
9
When the Affordable Care Act was first introduced, this same Congressional Budget Office projected all kinds of stuff that did not come to be (everyone saves $2500, deductibles will go down).
Why should we believe this projection now ?
Why should we believe this projection now ?
2
I would really like to know how many of the 20 million or 32 million slated to lose their healthcare voted for Trump. Elections have consequences and your vote really really matters. Perhaps this is an opportunity to get people engaged.
I have employer healthcare. Between Medicaid taxes and my medical premium, deductible and copays I spent $20,000 last year.
I voted for her and you should have too.
No complaints from me...it is what it is..I did everything in my power to help my fellow citizens including donating to planned parenthood. I can't help stupid.
I have employer healthcare. Between Medicaid taxes and my medical premium, deductible and copays I spent $20,000 last year.
I voted for her and you should have too.
No complaints from me...it is what it is..I did everything in my power to help my fellow citizens including donating to planned parenthood. I can't help stupid.
12
I hear you. I've given up fighting for people who won't help themselves. They voted for greed, ignorance and bigotry and now they can see where that will get them.
5
Aha! Better late than never. Now the Republican wreaking crew is on non-partisan, official governmental notice regarding the disastrous consequences of its health care tinkering. May this information be disseminated far and wide, to every city, town, village, and hamlet in the country, particularly where voters believed in its falsehoods and distortions.
6
House and Senate have incredible insurance for next to nothing - even after they leave office. They have had years to come up with a plan, which they haven't - not even a clue of a plan. Once the GOP won they didn't wait 2 seconds to try and gut the Ethics Office.
When we try to change the country every four years from the top down, nothing changes that much. We really need to start NOW, educating ourselves for the next election cycle (city and state), and get the change started there.
When we try to change the country every four years from the top down, nothing changes that much. We really need to start NOW, educating ourselves for the next election cycle (city and state), and get the change started there.
9
Besides making for great TV watching, a total collapse of Obamacare including Trump voters dying in the streets for lack of care; accompanied by Mexico's absolute refusal to pay for the wall; accompanied by chaos and rioting in the cities when the cops start trying to round up illegals would maybe start Republicans thinking about finding some better ways to make America great again.
8
I have my healthcare through my employer, who employs thousands of people throughout the country (and the world). Every candidate I voted for supported Obamacare. The few people I know who are on Obamacare do have non-Obamacare options. I no longer feel I have any stake in this nor do I see what I can do. I guess I will just sit out all this.
In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.
- Benjamin Franklin
Unfortunately, freedom to have affordable healthcare was never a certainty. Death and taxes still win in America.
- Benjamin Franklin
Unfortunately, freedom to have affordable healthcare was never a certainty. Death and taxes still win in America.
3
If Republicans were more rational and less ideologically driven they would have the good sense to improve the ACA to address the very real problem in the individual market of high out of pocket costs for many rather than repeal it. In the alternative they could keep it in place for only as long as they take to produce and have CBO-scored their own replacement plan and legislation.
But blinkered as they are by their own ideological prejudices and an abiding hatred of any plan that bears Obama's stamp, they are willing to risk the lives of the many Americans who depend on the ACA and a stable insurance market. And this is the party to whom America gave almost total power.
But blinkered as they are by their own ideological prejudices and an abiding hatred of any plan that bears Obama's stamp, they are willing to risk the lives of the many Americans who depend on the ACA and a stable insurance market. And this is the party to whom America gave almost total power.
13
When people talk about the Republicans let's remember the people that have empowered them......white voters who stand the most to lose if the Republicans enact their agenda.
If you believe that throwing eighteen million people off their medical insurance is going to satisfy the Republicans then you are living in a fantasy world. Next up is the privatization (and destruction) of Social Security and Medicare. More than one hundred million Americans will suffer because the Republican Party believes that the top 1% should receive more tax breaks.
Who would rally around and champion a political party that is against raising the minimum wage and wants to decimate the social safety net by weakening or removing the laws and regulations that protect the foods we eat, the cars we drive, the medicines we take, the toys our kids play with, the products we use and the health and safety of the places we work????
The Republicans and their supporters believe in trickle down economics. If we would give the top 1% more tax cuts then we would all have great jobs? Oh really? Trickle down economics is really this....go outside your home the next time it is raining. Look at the rain beating down in torrents against your roof. The roof is the rich and powerful. Watch it fall slowly down the walls of your home until it falls in tiny droplets on the ground. That is what the poor and middle class will receive. The Republicans want the entire cake and want to leave the rest of us with the crumbs.
If you believe that throwing eighteen million people off their medical insurance is going to satisfy the Republicans then you are living in a fantasy world. Next up is the privatization (and destruction) of Social Security and Medicare. More than one hundred million Americans will suffer because the Republican Party believes that the top 1% should receive more tax breaks.
Who would rally around and champion a political party that is against raising the minimum wage and wants to decimate the social safety net by weakening or removing the laws and regulations that protect the foods we eat, the cars we drive, the medicines we take, the toys our kids play with, the products we use and the health and safety of the places we work????
The Republicans and their supporters believe in trickle down economics. If we would give the top 1% more tax cuts then we would all have great jobs? Oh really? Trickle down economics is really this....go outside your home the next time it is raining. Look at the rain beating down in torrents against your roof. The roof is the rich and powerful. Watch it fall slowly down the walls of your home until it falls in tiny droplets on the ground. That is what the poor and middle class will receive. The Republicans want the entire cake and want to leave the rest of us with the crumbs.
16
Republicans continue to be hoisted by their own petards in the politically motivated, foolish repeal of the Affordable Care Act. Tragically, there are millions on innocent Americans whose lives will be blown up by the effort to blast though the protecting door of the ACA.
That door is the only thing which shields poor, nearly poor and some middle class folks from financial ruin and worse. The comment by Senator Orrin Hatch is cynical and cruelly misleading.
That door is the only thing which shields poor, nearly poor and some middle class folks from financial ruin and worse. The comment by Senator Orrin Hatch is cynical and cruelly misleading.
7
The Republican plan are high deductible HSAs to cover catastrophic health incidents. It not coverage that includes family planning or routine health issues that require a visit to an urgent care center.
While democrats may disagree with this level of coverage, neither party has been forthright with finding a ways to insure our sick without creating a system of out of control premium increases.
While democrats may disagree with this level of coverage, neither party has been forthright with finding a ways to insure our sick without creating a system of out of control premium increases.
1
Expect the full panoply of Republican tactics as they attempt to destroy the ACA. They're philosophically opposed to government support of healthcare, and, since the end seems to justify the means, we'll keep hearing lies, gross exaggerations, and demonization of Obamacare. Unrepresentative examples will be paraded before the media. We'll also hear selective statistics carefully chosen to mislead, denial of their role in kneecapping aspects of the program, and refusal to acknowledge that denial of expanded Medicaid coverage harmed millions and may have led to premature death for thousands.
In defense of their new plan they'll equate 'access' to insurance, no matter how inadequate, with actual affordable quality care. Then they'll blame the victims if tens of millions can't or don't get insurance.
Also, if Republicans pull this off, expect them to repeat the same deplorable tactics for Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security.
Democrats should insist that the ACA has set the floor for the quality of care provided to all citizens including women, the extent of the population covered, and the cost effectiveness of care in our country. They should not cooperate with anything short of an honest attempt at net improvements to our healthcare system.
In defense of their new plan they'll equate 'access' to insurance, no matter how inadequate, with actual affordable quality care. Then they'll blame the victims if tens of millions can't or don't get insurance.
Also, if Republicans pull this off, expect them to repeat the same deplorable tactics for Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security.
Democrats should insist that the ACA has set the floor for the quality of care provided to all citizens including women, the extent of the population covered, and the cost effectiveness of care in our country. They should not cooperate with anything short of an honest attempt at net improvements to our healthcare system.
4
the republican death panel seems to be hard at work removing the last obstacle to affordable health insurance. They will wipe out the subsidies that allow the program to run and force millions to lose health coverage. In a sense, the death panels they warned of years ago have come to fruition, the republicans are now the harbinger of death.
8
I have this interesting idea that universal healthcare could become a reality in America by way of a class-action lawsuit. Those of us that paid the Obamacare penalty could argue in court that insurance companies must provide us with some level of coverage since they are the recipients of our money. The fact that we didn’t choose a plan from a website is irrelevant. This argument wouldn’t invalidate the Supreme Court’s opinion that the Obamacare penalty is just a tax. But, what the government did with that tax money might be illegal, because the people that paid it aren’t receiving any insurance coverage. I think this is a strong argument to be made. Sometimes the courts have to do what our politicians won’t do.
2
I don't think we should separate the issue of affordable health care from child care, housing and jobs in this national discussion.
I support a job opportunity for anyone who wants to work, federally subsidized childcare, affordable housing, and Medicare for all. We shouldn't make it so hard for people in this country to survive.
We can begin to pay for the basic needs of our citizens by reverting to the tax rates of that socialist decade, the 1950s.
I support a job opportunity for anyone who wants to work, federally subsidized childcare, affordable housing, and Medicare for all. We shouldn't make it so hard for people in this country to survive.
We can begin to pay for the basic needs of our citizens by reverting to the tax rates of that socialist decade, the 1950s.
7
Health insurance costs skyrocketed under Obamacare for 80-90% of those with health insurance. Monthly premiums doubled, while benefits were reduced significantly. All you have to do is simply look at the costs and benefits offered by a standard health insurance plan, in any state. Currently the standard insurance policy for someone in their 30's or 40's with average health costs covers 80% of in-network medical expenses, after a deductible of $3,000-4,000--such a plan will cost you about $6,000 bucks a year. Obviously all of these figures are approximation--this is the best I could get in the private market. Plans offered under Obamacare were 30-50% more expensive, with deductibles over $5,000. As a comparison, for the 3-4 years before Obamacare went into effect I was able to purchase health insurance that cost me around $3,000-3,500/year, that covered 80-100% of my medical expenses after an annual deductible of $500. The cost increased each year by maybe 1-2%, with little to no change in benefits. So yeah, Obamacare has been a disaster for me, and I have talked to numerous coworkers, friends, etc. who have all faced the same increases in cost. With such high deductibles, you do not really get any coverage, so a lot of people opt for no coverage--the $600 penalty or whatever it is is not nearly enough to change anyone's mind. Stick that in you pipe and smoke it.
4
At least you had insurance before Obamacare. Obamacare was not a disaster for the 20 million people who had no insurance before they got covered under the ACA.
2
Once again provide proof of your figures. My premiums have NOT skyrocketed. I and many other can provide verified PROOF of the benefits to people. Can you?
4
if the Republicans have their way, the replacement plan will require insured to have 'more skin in the game' - higher premiums, co-pays & deductibles. If Congress thinks this is in the best interest of the country, then they should also accept that they too should have more skin in the game. Follow the same rules as the people who put you into office. I wouldn't be surprised if Congress makes the repeal a prolonged affair and not effective until at least after the mid-term elections or even the next presidential cycle. This will get very ugly and lots of people will be harmed. Shame on the new administration.
4
Interesting how these arguments are all the same ones use before Obamacare passed. "People will die in the streets from lack of care without Obamacare!! We must pass it!!"
Fast forward. It never reached its objectives. Not even close. It needed 14 million new subscribers -- not including Medicaid -- to survive. It has about that now, and they're mostly Medicaid. (The new enrollee figure of 20 million figure is bogus. It includes people who had insurance before, who were already eligible for Medicaid, etc.)
Why would anyone listen to these dire projections again after the way Obamacare was sold based on a pile of lies? Let's see what the republicans are offering, and by that I mean let's read it to see what's actually in it.
Fast forward. It never reached its objectives. Not even close. It needed 14 million new subscribers -- not including Medicaid -- to survive. It has about that now, and they're mostly Medicaid. (The new enrollee figure of 20 million figure is bogus. It includes people who had insurance before, who were already eligible for Medicaid, etc.)
Why would anyone listen to these dire projections again after the way Obamacare was sold based on a pile of lies? Let's see what the republicans are offering, and by that I mean let's read it to see what's actually in it.
3
Yeah what are the Republicans offering? Haven't heard.
1
Why do people who don't read the news feel compelled to comment on it?
2
Don't you get it. The Republicans had 8 years to come up with something and they didn't. That's besides the fact that the ACA WAS A REPUBLICAN PLAN
1