By Ron Prosky Santa Monica
In response to Dr. Yaron Brook’s (guest commentary) titled “Be healthy or else risk the unthinkable” (Sept. 11), it’s just another case of closed-minded politics. The universal health care proposal is intended for those who prioritize their physical health above and beyond their individual liberty to live as they please when it comes to daily lifestyle choices. We can all agree that there is no possible way to offer socialized health care without restrictions. If I am indigent (or otherwise unable to pay) and rely on the government to fund my health care needs, then I need to do my part. This includes, but is not limited to: Waiting in long lines, not abusing drugs or alcohol, not smoking, maintaining preventative care, etc. We are the fattest, greasiest, most spoiled nation in the world, and for John Edwards to undertake this amazing proposal will require give and take from both sides.
Brook mentions the government forcing the recipients of this proposal having to abide by such crazy things as adhering to the outdated “Food Pyramid” in order to keep their benefits. Like any other law, reality and common sense needs to play a role. The government couldn’t possibly monitor such a thing as day-to-day eating habits, but it can monitor the patient’s progress in lowering cholesterol and blood pressure. Eat right and take your meds or lose your coverage, simple. If I choose to spend $4 a day on smokes and swing by McDonalds every other day, then maybe I should take that money and go get private health coverage, even if it only covers major medical. The choice is mine. The government isn’t coercing anyone, you have several choices; play by the rules and get socialized coverage, get a job that offers coverage, get your own coverage, or no coverage at all.
As a doctor, I’d imagine Brook is all set in this department, so it only makes sense he’d have no interest in socialized medicine. Pretty selfish viewpoint isn’t it? I’d also imagine that socialized health care might potentially affect his bread & butter.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on September 13, 2007. Read the original PDF.