The duty of the government is to make decisions that benefit its citizens, including aiding them in times of crisis. Upon researching the status of health care in the U.S., it is indisputable that we are in a crisis. The number of uninsured people was 45.7 million in the year 2007, with 8.1 of these being children, according the U.S. Census Bureau, up from the estimated 19.4 million who were uninsured in 1993, the last time a big push towards reform was make. With the ominous look of our nation’s economic future, it is obvious that more people will be losing their jobs, resulting in a likely loss of health coverage, as well.

For those who protest by saying they don’t want to pay for other people’s well-being - we already are, and at a higher price. Our current system doesn’t provide the benefits of preventive health care for those who cannot pay, choosing to deal with them only when they arrive at a critical condition, which puts pressure on hospitals, emergency rooms and ultimately, taxpayers.

If the government doesn’t take action, the situation will only worsen and frankly that is unacceptable. People must call for the passage of new health care legislation, whether it be Barack Obama’s place or otherwise. How can we keep supporting a failed health care system that clearly is not working? For true change, the government must enact a universal health care system for this country. Call it “liberal” or “socialized” all you want, but it must be done for the sake of the citizens of this country.

Teal Dodrill

Silsbee