Cathy Merwin

To the editor,

Do you think there is no need for health reform? That President Obama is simply presenting this reform package to complete a government takeover? That the health insurance industry is working well for the American people and the government should not be involved because things are going smoothly? That there are only a small amount of uninsured people who could just as well get their own policies? That you would never be affected by what happens to many middle-class Americans who get sick with a catastrophic illness? That there is no health care rationing in today’s health care?

The “controls” that President Obama wants to put on the health insurance industry are laws that would prohibit companies from denying coverage because of pre-existing conditions. Laws that would prevent insurance companies from dropping coverage when people are sick. Laws that would end annual and lifetime limits on the coverage you receive. These “controls” are to help end the current rationing of care by the health insurance industry.

Right now, for example, if you change jobs or lose your job and try to buy private health coverage, you may be denied coverage if you have diabetes or high blood pressure. Where does that leave you when you have worked so hard to obtain a piece of the American dream? Your home and your savings are at real risk of being lost.

This health reform will strengthen your health insurance coverage, providing better coverage for you, your spouse and your children. By requiring people who can afford coverage, purchase at least minimal coverage, your own premiums will be lower. The pool becomes larger. Right now, small businesses that purchase health insurance for their employees are paying astronomic sums. President Obama's Health plan provides small businesses with tax credits and affordable options for covering employees.

The largest insurer in our own state constitutes 51-percent of the health insurance market share in New Hampshire. The top two insurance providers account for 75-percent, obviously limiting the choices that you have for finding coverage. With a competitive public insurance option, you will have more choices and increased competition that holds insurance companies accountable.

I have excellent health coverage. But I am very aware that I am just a catastrophic illness away from losing my home and savings. And, if you have health coverage now, you are too.

Cathy Merwin

Meredith