Sicko

My health insurance benefits ended roughly two weeks ago, so for the past month I have been seeking a new health insurance provider. Ironically the day after I saw this movie, I was informed by Blue Anthem that my application was denied due to an expensive medication I require. I was then told that no insurance company in my state would take me because of this, and that my only option would be to get a job offering a group plan, but there would still be a chance of being declined here as well.

I left the movie completely aghast at how not subtle the differences between public and private health care are, and with many seeming myths about public health care debunked. I do know that Moore’s movies aren’t known for being a modest middle-ground voice of neutrality. However, even I was convinced that my typical 5-week waiting period to see my doctor was a blessing compared to the months I would have to wait to see doctors in Canada or the UK. After seeing the movie I asked some friends I know in Canada who confirmed that they almost never have to wait more than an hour. One person who needed to see the only dermatologist at the clinic she visits informed me she waited about an hour and a half. Though, she could have probably gotten in earlier, but she told them it wasn’t urgent and that she wouldn’t mind waiting.

Unfortunately for as many people as this movie may touch, I have my doubts that it will have any actual effect. Health care and pharma companies are too well entrenched with too much money and too many lobbyists for us, We The People, to intervene at this late date.

I’m not sure why people have been so apprehensive about socialized health care. I would like to think people have moved past this “communist” fear thing. The cold war is long over and was ridiculous enough on it’s own. Why can’t we adopt this mindset of taking care of each other and letting doctors regain their dignity and humanity? When did we all start believing that health should only be available to the wealthy?

It all reminds me of a poll I participated in not too long ago that asked if I would rather be granted health or wealth? I was saddened to have to select wealth, because I knew that wealth is the only way to claim AND maintain health.