Aug. 20, 2012 issue
Loss of liberty
By Stan Epp Newton, Kan.The July 9 editorial, “Health Law and Justice,” suggested that the Supreme Court’s upholding the Affordable Care Act was an act of justice. From personal experience, I have a very different viewpoint. Twenty years ago I began suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome. Most of the alternative health supplements that are effective for my healing were not covered by insurance. The same is true today, and the supplements are a significant monthly expense. Our family was able to buy those supplements years ago because we chose to trust God for our health and did not buy health insurance. Had we been required to buy insurance, we might not have been able to afford the supplements.
The Food and Drug Administration is very reticent to approve alternative health measures, and therefore they are not covered by insurance. When the government thinks it knows what is best for us, dictates what items are not covered by insurance and then requires us to buy the very insurance that does not cover the items that are best for us, it is functioning in too big of a role. The loss of our right to choose results in hardship and repression. I highly valued my right to manage my own health care, and that right has now been substantially curtailed.
When we allow the government to take one liberty away, it is easier for it to take another away. I believe this loss of the right to choose concerning health care, along with the U.S. government’s recent attempts to restrict the religious rights of Catholic institutions, are ominous signs for the future of freedom in America.
Comments
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One alternative that we may wish to consider is the creation of "Health Mutual Benefit Societies". It's a non-profit (often based on some membership criteria, like being a member of a Mennonite community); all members contribute and non-profit defines what is covered.
A little legal work may be required, but recently I read in the Economist of how Cath.Church uses a similar concept to protect "insurance" against bankruptcy and abuse lawsuits.
P.S. I have had CFS since 1999, went into full remission, relapsed this year and on the way to remission again -- especially using the probiotic E.Coli Nissle 1917 (which is not available for sale in the US, it is available in Canada).
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The letter "Loss Of Liberty" by Stan Epp , August 20,2012 is mistaken in a few areas of his concern. First of all ACA did not limit the options available,rather increased options for general healthcare. Supplements wich I take also, were never covered and still are not under most insurance programs. I would suggest that if we had a one payor system and everyone on it that option might become available. All medically approved coverages have greatly increased and if you don't need covered services you can greatly reduce your premiums by taking a larger deductible. The idea that a liberty has been taken away is not correct but with more participation from people on any program the better for us all. The mandate is not something which restricts your choices or limits your care. If you like your current coverage, keep it or switch to one you like.
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