House passes Healthcare Reform: What do you think?

On November 7th at 11:15, the House of Representatives by a slim victory of 220 to 215 votes passed the bill for Healthcare Reform our country. The bill now goes to the Senate for a fierce battle over what stays and goes to improve healthcare reform for our citizens. I was appalled by the lack of disrespect both sides of the aisle had for each other in voicing their disagreements with each other. What happened to civility?

I watched part of the debate on Saturday night and learned how the liberal Democrats chose to forego the abortion issue of using federal funds to pay for it so they can get the votes from their fellow conserative Democrats. Despite the conversary to get the bill passed, it had to be done to move it forward to the Senate in a timely manner.

I agree with some of the concerns the Republican Minority Whip raised during this debate regarding the following issues:

1) Increase in taxes to pay for it.
2) Another layer of government beaurcracy to manage it
3) Seniors losing their choice for enrolling in medicare advantage programs
4) Malpractice insurance and liability for doctors have not been discussed yet

I also agree with the benefits put forth by the Democrats with some reservations:

1) The donute hole for seniors enrolled in the medicare program would be eliminated and discounts of medications would be available. However, are the discounted drugs generic or brand medications?
2) Americans can keep their current health plans. However, will employers find a way to force people to go on the government's plan to decrease their costs to run their businesses?
3) Medical errors in hospitals still need to be addressed. Yes, I agree with the the Democrats that increase errors can lead to increase malpractice and liability claims for doctors and hospitals.
4) The End of Life counseling by doctors is voluntary and not mandatory. This issue needs further clarification.

What bothers me the most is the issue regarding mental health care. How will healthcare reform impact this care? Is the new mental health parity starting in January 2010, the answer to resolving all the concerns and issues that will no longer need to be addressed in healthcare reform?

What do you think? Regarding abortions, I would like healthcare reform promote more adoptions as an alternative and a viable choice for women.

Robbin Miller, LMHC
Facilitator