Future American Socialism: Healthcare, et al.

[Divinus Arma]

Alright. Not a rant. A concession. Well, a concession to discuss.

Most of you Orgah oldtimers know my politics. And I am conceding a defeat here. The American healthcare system is a disaster. There are great benefits to private healthcare- innovation, excellence in treatment, entrepreneurialism, and other similar free market gains.

BUT. We have a major cost issue here. I am willing to concede to the largest government entitlement in American history. Namely, public healthcare. Gah.

Now before I go on, (if anybody cares), this new point of view has been extended to other parts of the private-public domain. Schooling. Governance. Bureaucracy.


Here is how this mess can be solved, in my humble and moderately educated opinion:

The Equalization of Basic Opportunity

Regardless of contribution to society,

(1) Every American should be entitled to basic healthcare to sustain life. Emergency Rooms, Clinics, Medication, and Hospital Care.

(2) Every American should be entitled to a basic education that will aid them in caring for themselves and making a contribution to society. High School + Vocational School or 4 Year Public College.

(3) Every American should be secure in a meagre pension that will sustain their life in old age. Retirement at 65 with Social Security Benefits at that age.


The following regulations to support free enterprise and competition MUST be included for me to sign on 100%:

(1) Private Hospitals can refuse patients who cannot pay for service unless it is an immediate life threatening emergency. All other non-life threatening conditions will be refused and directed to public health care facilities. This will reduce medical insurance premiums, drastically cut customer costs, promote competition and innovation, and support our wolrd-class private health care entrepreneurialism.

(2) Tuition vouchers must be provided to parents who choose to remove their children from public education facilities. This will promote accountability and efficiency in administration.

(3) Social Security may not be distributed until an individual is medically disabled or 65. With such good healthcare, folks can work alot longer.


Anyway. Just some thoughts. A far cry from the right wing I must say. Edit: My stance has always been one for personal responsibility. But you cannot ask someone to take responsibility if they do not have them means to do so.