There is a fascinating article on the health care reform initiatives that are part of the economic stimulus packages currently in discussion. Congress is looking at a plan to expand the state Medicaid programs to assist jobless workers who have recently lost benefits.
The increased numbers in unemployment claims also corresponds to people losing their health insurance coverage. The article from the Washington Post points out that this “ripple effect” of the economic downturn is likely to increase the number of uninsured Americans from 45 million before the crisis, to nearly 48 million. As the number of layoffs, lost jobs, and benefit reductions continues, that number could climb beyond 50 million.
SCHIP To Be Revived
The President is also expected to push through legislation to increase the children’s health insurance program that has be blocked by the Bush administration for some time. This will open up funding to provide insurance for children even if their parents are uninsured providing for well baby care, immunizations, and improving the health of underserved children immensely.
For many nurses in the health care setting, this is welcome news. The question you might be asking is, “Is this enough of a reform of U.S. health care?”
Nurses Share Their Opinions
Perhaps not but I know that one thing is certain. Nurses need to be involved in the process. Contact your elected representatives and senators in Washington and let them know about your concerns regarding the health care system.
I don’t presume to know what that opinion might be but I do know that the current system needs serious overhaul. If that overhaul is done without our input, it will be lacking in areas that only nurses can affect. If you want the insurers, large hospitals, and special interest groups to define the future of your career, then just sit by and do nothing. If you want to be part of the process and not the problem, then contact someone today!
Contact Your Elected Officials Now!
Here are the links to your elected officials in Washington, D.C. Take five minutes and tell them what you think.
Change.gov (Obama transition and beyond)
