Maria’s view of Log Cabin Living

The current  health care debate is really getting confusing.  So much stuff is flying around on the internet…its hard to figure out what’s really what.  I will say this:  I’m hesitant about the gov’t handling health care, since most other gov’t-run programs are a big mess and riddled with excessive waste.  And considering that gov’t employees are almost never fired (from what I hear), I’d hate to think that my health care would be handled by someone who could run amuck with no consequences.  This leaves me on the fence about the whole deal. 

Health care is TOO expensive, we all agree.  A blatant rip-off might be a more accurate description.   I once had a doctor tell me in confidence that he bills the insurance company for more than he expects to get, since they all adjust the amount downward to reflect what some bureaucrat feels should be paid.  This is, most likely, the norm among physicians of all specialties.  Mine just happened to be a neurosurgeon.  He was kind enough to knock $1000 off my bill, by the way (thanks again, doc!). And has anyone ever scrutinized a hospital bill?  Holy smokes!  Talk about overcharging for services!!!   Ten years ago, when I had back surgery, the hospital billed me $275 for a feminine item and a little kit of sample products….totally outrageous, and the tip of the iceberg! 

There’s no easy answer – that much is clear.  So I’ll reserve my opinion for now.  Can’t wait to hear what happens next..