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LIVE Blog: Landmark health care bill heads to Obama's desk
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[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2010/images/03/22/health.care.congress.art.gi.jpg caption="House Speaker Nancy Pelosi speaks during a night news conference on health care reform on Capitol Hill in Washington, March 22, 2010."]
(CNN) - A sweeping bill overhauling the U.S. medical system goes to President Obama's desk on Monday to be signed into law.
The House of Representatives passed the measure late Sunday, delivering a historic victory to Obama, who had made it his No. 1 domestic priority.
The bill passed in a 219-212 vote after more than a year of bitter partisan debate. All 178 Republicans opposed it, along with 34 Democrats.
The measure, which cleared the Senate in December, constitutes the biggest expansion of federal health care guarantees since Medicare and Medicaid were enacted more than four decades ago. FULL STORY
Sound off: How do you think this reform will impact you? Share your stories with us. Join the LIVE blog below and chat with us during the show.
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when are the republicans going to get on board and help out the little people of this country. everything they do seems to hurt us. they passed tax breaks with and put us in a hole, they passed deregulation of the trucking industry and that is killing the owner operator truckers of this country, I had to sell my truck after 20 years because I could not make ends meet, and they broke the unions... what do they do to help the little people?? NOTHING!!! grow up and get your heads out of your A–!!
Dear John,
You people in the media are as obtuse as the 'leaders' in this country! How will the new health care bill affect Me? The same way the corporate and banking bailouts effected me, negatively and in ways only recognizable after months or years of living the results, of this "change". That bailout proved to all Americans, that our government is more concerned with the all mighty buck and those who control it. This latest healthcare fiasco, proved to all Americans that our government, especially the Republicans, are willing to let the nation of middle class patriots suffer, even as they refuse to even consider allowing the rich financial sector to suffer the slightest infraction into thier profits.
The Health Care bill will effect me, I am disabled, my only income is Disability, and my only health care insurance is Medicare. I can only worry and wonder at how I will pay for our governments latest 'improvement" to America.
Mike. Get a life! People are still going to die from health issues and our heros are still going to die in war situations today and into the future irregarless of who is the President! In fact, you and I may very well die this morning when leaving to go to work. Who knows!
Cory M - I think you should consider a career change, you probably have no business treating patients. Maybe you should look for a job with the insurance companies, they love people with your judgemental attitude about other people's lives.
I agree that term limits for Congress are in order. Although I think they should serve only one 6 year term, then they won't have to be so worried about re-election!
I am 67 and want to know if the changes in medicare will reduce or change my insurance benefits??
I'm very pleased that the House pass the HC bill. Health Care is a Human Right and not a Privilege that should be left up to the "Death Panels" of the Insurance Companies.
From your friends up north in Canada, congratulations to the USA for finally passing healthcare, way to go!!!. I always felt bad for those in the USA who had no health care. I'm very proud to be your neighbor today and I'm looking forward to investing in american companies again as I feel this will add significant strength to your economy. Congrats america!
Who would decide whether or not an individual can afford health insurance? I make $ 9 an hr with more than 1/2 of my "take home" pay going to pay just rent with not enough left in month to cover utilites & food. Yet some "panel" decides I make too much to qualify for any type of public assistance now. Sure my son who is 23 and a Leukemia survivor will now be able to get health insurance, but at what cost? Will we now have to decide whether to pay rent, a fine or for health insurance?
Hi folks,
Trying to answer some of your questions. Here are some highlights from the bill as CNN has reported: http://on.cnn.com/cE93SR
• Total out-of-pocket expenses would be limited, and insurance companies would be prevented from denying coverage for pre-existing conditions. Insurers would be barred from canceling coverage for sick people, as well as charging higher premiums based on a person's gender or medical history.
Liz, the change will work with the major areas of change, assuming the Senate passes the House changes. If they don't pass the changes, the belief is this will become a major mess! Too many payoffs!
This bill definitely isn't perfect but it it is better than doing nothing. I keep hearing so many people crying about how they don't want to pay for health care for other Americans who don't work. It just shows how this country has so many selfish people. I don't make a lot doing the job that I do but I am so very willing to pay more taxes to help my other fellow Americans.
I am glad congress pass this new health care reform. I am one of those people who is not middle class but not really poor. I am not working right know and with my unemployment and my son SSI check, I make too much for medicaid for my son and not enough to purchase insurance. I got emails from my congressman Jack Kingston who voted against the bill. I wrote him and expressed my feelings about about the bill Jack paid my concerns to mind, How is that listen to all the people of your district. I always knew most of congress was in the pockets of the big people with money. Jack Kingston did not get my vote and he will not get it again.
Thank you President Obama for healthcare. Not only do you care about people but you have evicted Rush Limbaugh who said that he would leave the country if Health Care Reform passes. I'll say it for you Mr. President "Goodbye Limbaugh."
if we can avoid to pay for two wars and not worry about the raising cost of those wars bot financially and otherwise,i think everybody in their right thinking mind should be proud that this health care reform passes.
i work in the health care industry and i sincerely see first hand what people go through because of health cost.
kudos to the democrats and shame to all the republicans that refuse to see merit in some parts if not all parts of this bill.
I'm relieved to have "some kind of" healthcare reform pass congress. At the same time I've been particularly concerned about our refusal to consider ideas from outside our borders on health care and other issues.
I found the comments about "European socialism" particularly rankling.
American citizens and media spend far too much time talking about our internal politics and the infamous "talking points".
Let's instead remember our place in the world and openly consider the best ideas from around the world, in healthcare and other debates.
No one likes change. Imagine, if you will, that this change works. What if it did? What if this was the right thing to do? Not just economically, (which it appears it will be), but morally.
Again, no one has clarified my question. Does the change in pre-existing condidtions cover only children, that have been unfortenate as stated on CNN about 10 minutes ago or all people with pre-existing condidtions???
I'm not sure of the long-term effects of this Health Care Bill. I do know that insurance companies have made the decisions on health care. I know that insurance companies have setup a system that provides them with continued profits at the cost of people in need of proper medical care. I know what it is like to be without medical insurance and not being able to get to a doctor when I needed it most. Taking control of health care away from insurance companies is a right move.
I believe that this Health Care Bill is a step in a right direction
Obama during campaign promised for the changes & passing HC reform by obama he kept his promise, think for millions of americans how he has changed the enviorment with positive thinking specially those terrorized by the word Health in our country sp'lly people with preconditions,No Health Insurace like me as of the high cost by (MAFIA'S) insurance companies & now its mafia time to take a back step.Obama is no GOD but a true Ameican & he has mentioned that this is the 1st step not the last at least in his leadership we can hope & see positive steps taken for the americans suffering & not like republicans who just wants to come into power again so bad & desperately so they can screw america the way they did for over 2 terms under bush presidency who spent tax payer money outside the country where obama is trying to at least spend money on americans & CBO who is Neutral has mentioned in their report its fully paid & on top of that it will reduce the deficit means in long run we might see tax exempts please do not listen to negative people read the bill yourself educate yourself these negative people themselves have not read the bill & talking big about the same plz. do not follow them use your own mind do not get influenced this bill will help america & americans there is no need to worry about all the false stories being made by opposition when they were the 1 in power under Bush presidency as a majority they didn't do anything forget even about bringing something on the table & then doing something about it when everyday americans were dying coz. of the broken health care system why they didnt do anything at that time how serious were they someone now is trying to do good for americans they have problem with that coz. they didn't do it coz. they wont get credit for it previous govt. what they have done created a mess for over 8 years which americans has to suffer with & obama is trying to fix which gonna take time he has no magic stic but people following listening & brain washed by negative people wont help him bring change which he promised .Support him give him a chance. HCare in america wont be only for riches now but everyone wouild be able to go for it.He promised change he did change the Broken Health Care he kept his promise.
for me, one of the immediate impacts is that my 22 year old son can remain covered under my policy out to age 26. That's a big deal. Not a perfect piece of legislation but the beginnings of monumental change for the good, change that is long overdue.
republicans have beat the dead horse over and over stating "the american people don't want this" (healthcare reform bill). but they don't say which americans. they are referring to wealthy americans who receive dividends on insurance investments and their wealthy friends in the insurance industry – not the overall american public – of course except those who are propagandized by the likes of rush limbaugh.
This is the best thing that could ever happen. I have diabetes and have been paying cash for everything. It adds up to about 700 a month. Now I will be able to get health insurance and stay healthy and alive for my husband and two boys. Thank you president obama
Happy and relieved that President Obama and the democrats fought hard to the end for the country and the American people who desperately need help in this recession. America will be a better place again.
Can you please clarify whether or not the new Healthcare Bill's elimination of lifetime caps applies to current policy holders AND new signups or just new signups? Thousands of Americans are impacted by this provision but I have not heard it clarified by the media. Please st us straight. Thank you, Ron Odom
im a 60 year old vet. i have 100% disabilty. i have medicare-a-b-suplamental to cover what medicare does not. ONLY ONE PROBLEM.NO MEDICAL DOCTOR WITHIN 80 MILES WILL TAKE MEDICARE IN CLUDING COX MEDICAL CLINIC IN MY TOWN. the va. medical hospital. is 150 mile round trip to ARK. except for medications that are mailed. the last bottle arived with the cap of of the bottle. i was told to through them away. it takes a least10 days to get a refill. if you need major medical operations. its 1000 mile round trip to little rock ARK. i cant not drive of about 60 miles because. of my injurys. there are no taxies in my town the to medical fasilty's and the dont run out side the city . this is only one example of how our vet's are taken care of by the gov. now . i would like to know what- O-CARE DONE FOR ME. IM PAYING MY MONEY FOR HEALT CARE BUT NO CARE. THANKS
This is a Good Morning for me:) I have peace of mind knowing that if I will be secure with my insurance policy. I paid for it and I do not want to be denied down the road if I should become ill or have an accident and need this insurance policy! Thank You President Barak Obama, his adminstration,DNC,and the Democrats in the House!
Mike....it's because of your attitude of greed is why we needed health care reform.
My husband is a nursing student and a surgical tech no problem with employment in the health care industry.
I also want to mention that I really appreciate and will be very supportive of the YES vote from Florida Represenatives:
Allen Boyd
Corrine Brown
Alan Grayson
Suzanne Kosmas
I am very proud of our President for everything he has put into Healthcare and all the other equally important issues he has been working on to guide our country.
republicans have beat the dead horse over and over stating "the american people don't want this" (healthcare reform bill). but they don't say which americans. they are referring to wealthy americans who receive dividends on insurance investments and their wealthy friends in the insurance industry – not the overall american public – of course except those who are propagandized by the likes of rush limbaugh.
oh, by the way, good ridance rush. you said you would leave the country if the health care bill passed. see ya. don't let the door hit ya where the good Lord split ya.
Our type 1 diabetic daughter is graduating college and had to come off our policy. She can remain on Cobra for three years which is a tremendous blessing. But the premium we pay for her is equal to our major medical policy but she has less coverage. She is not employed yet and is only guaranteed medical coverge if she gains employment with a group plan coverage. I am delighted that, hopefully, if all else fails, she can have coverage through the 'high risk pool' promised by the new legislation.
Please clarify the pre-existing condidtion change. You just stated it's comvering on children with pre-exsting condidtions. I thought it was for all people!!!!!!
What's the first thing you heard from your friends or family when Obama got elected. For me, it was, "I'm moving to Canada." When you start out expecting bad things, of course that's how things will seem. Loud people who swore against Obama from day one continue to speak out against everything he does. I personally believe that it's to the point now where people are putting aside the needs of the people just to speak out against Obama. If Obama promises that those who don't need a certain service (Health Care, for example) won't be affected, I'm sure you can trust that. Try to ignore the stereotypical republican propaganda and the points-of-view of elders, such as parents. When you think about it, doesn't it seem like something that will help those who are less fortunate?
"Of the people, by the people, and for the people". I finally believe our law makers are listening to the true pulse of the country. My struggles are many with health care issues with my sick husand and a son working at a low paying job and not able to afford insurance. I'm now relieved to be able to add him back to my policy.I prayed for this bill. Thank You so much Mr. President
It is relatively easy although unpopular with cell phone companies to fix the sexting problem with your teen. If you as the parent own the phone, you can call the company and request a block on everything on the phone except incoming and outgoing calls and texting. That's blocking everything. It is your responsibility as a parent to keep your teen safe to the extent that you can, and...you own the phone!
Paula
The partisan politics we've seen over the last year brings two words to mind, term limits.
As a practicing doc, I represent the minority that are happy the bill passed. The bill is not perfect and will require refinement, but this is a step in the right direction. Most of the people I see in my hospital are impoverished or even undocumented, and obviously uninsured. If these people are given care, so should your mom or dad who has worked all their life, but can no longer afford the health insurance, or are turned away due to pre-existing conditions. The public does not realize what an epidemic this is, any patient who comes to an ER cannot legally be turned away, and it is your tax dollars that go to pay for this care. Finally a system will be in place to make sure everyone is covered, and to provide the preventative healthcare that has been available prior only to those that could afford it.
This bill will likely save my life. I had rheumatic fever as a child in 1949, which damaged my heart valves much as happened to Bobby Darin.
Infections can go to the damaged valve, and can be fatal fi not promptly treated. And with bacteria being resistant to most antibiotics, the danger has increased greatly.
The best prevention/cure is to replace the damaged valve.
The problem I have had is that all the insurance companies say this is a pre-existing illness and therefore replacing the heart valve is not covered.
The bill just passed prevents insurance companies from denying coverage for pre-existing health problems, so if it becomes necessary to replace my damaged heart valve, the operation would be covered.
I am sure this provision alone in the bill will save many many lives and, as in my case, would cure the health problem so that I can avoid future probable hospitalizations due to infection of the valve. Also, a new valve would make my heart work much more efficiently and prolong my life. Its a win-win situation, likely a cure, and also the substantial savings by eliminating future very expensive hospitalizations..
I am so happy, I am self-employed and paying for Health Insurance that is going to increase at the end of this month. By having pre-existing conditions I have to pay a higher premium for health care, and it is hard trying to get coverage. I am Soooooooo happy this takes stress off of my heart.
Tern limits, is the answer. For the last 40 years many of those in Washington are sill there amazing. I can't understand the those who don't have their company paying why those without should not get at the very least, what congress has. Why at the very least we can't get what they have. 4 years and 2 terms max. It's always the same group of people cramming there butts to make sure we see them as someone who is powerful I have never seen so many people out of touch.
Thanks
Welcome to socialism!!! The people tell the leaders of the country they don't WANT this healthcare bill to pass they say "to H–l with you, WE think you will' –total disregard for the people– who they are suppose to represent. They can take their arrogance and go to–H-l. I will be campaigning furiously against every Democrat who voted for this Socialist rubbish. Now we are the UNITED STATES OF SOCIALISTS. Sounds good huh?
In 2004 after 17 years with the City of Dallas I was denied surgery on my back by Texas Workers Comp insurance. They said my slipped vertibrae was just a "cause of life" and even after the work comp board ruled it was due to my accident they said they were powerless to make the insurance co. pay for the surgery so I am now disabled and lost my home.
Thanks
Frank in Dallas
I have a small bussiness with about 20 employees and i have been providing them with complete health Ins, for many years , this move by the congress will cost me a extra $157,000 , This is tough to swallow when the company only has a net profit of about $ 20,000 a year ,, maybe it's time to quit !!!!!!
I am a nurse and I see too often people come in with horrible advanced disease because they couldn't afford to have insurance and see a doctor. It's sickening to see many end up in intensive care unit with irreversible illness. Preventative care will only be cost fraction of days in ICU. Sicker people generate money and our health care has become all about making money and not about taking care of people.
I would first like to say my background is an ER Registered Nurse. That being said, I know what the hospital looks like with those coming in without insurance, and the huge expense the hospitals continue to incur.
I see people from all different walks of life, and there are those who can afford to pay the hospital bills and those that can't. BUT, what type of people do I see? I see those that have good jobs and good health insurance coverage. I also see those that work 3 jobs to help support their families and are unable to afford health insurance.
HOWEVER, a VAST majority of those coming into an emergency room that are not going to be paying their bills are those that DO NOT work or make any sort of effort to improve their status within society. They come for colds, broken nails, pregnancy tests, sore throats,STD flare ups, etc., and these are not just a few people!! Millions of dollars are absorbed by the hospital from just these people!!
Now we're going to have government run healthcare. We take away people's incentive to get good jobs that offer great healthcare coverage. What makes ANYONE think that people are not going to abuse this system? I mean seriously? If the government is paying for my health insurance, why not just go to the ER for everything? I mean, my tax dollars are paying for it, right? I don't ever go to the doctor for a sinus infection, but hey, my tax dollars are paying for my insurance now, so why not go get antibiotics?
This is a disaster......more will be revealed...
I TRULY hope someone can someday say I was wrong.
I am very happy about the passing of the Healthcare Bill. This bill will eventually help my daughter who was denied health Insurance last week due to a pre-existing condition. In 2006 coming home from work she was hit head on by a under age driver going the wrong direction on a highway. She was previously on Cobra Ins, but it expired.
This will help others in my extended family buy Insurance that did not have it and they will make less trips to the emergency room and more and regular visits to a primary Dr. for better preventative care.
My college age nephew will be able to remain on his parents Insurance plan.
All of my family will spend less on healthcare in many ways and that will help free up more money for them to spend on goods and services in their cities and towns. That money will help local business survive and make money so they can hire more people. The taxes on those goods and services will help local schools and services.
I am 63 years old, my husband is disabled and on Medicare, however, I must carry him on my insurance becasue he is not 65 and because of his medication. My Cobra runs out next year and I will not be 66 (my age to retire) until 2013. What is in the Health Care Bill that will help prople like us?
What would you think if I took my credit card & paid for 10 people to get healthcare & then when the bill came I only paid half of the bill or if I paid none of it. Then all 10 would lose their healthcare. The same will happen in America plus the insurance companies will eventually go bankrupt as well since the US GOVERNMENT IS BROKE, just like the Congress is broke. It will destroy our country & make us more like a dictatorship!
It's about time. I'm 33 years old, work for small conctruction company that can't provide insurance, and havn't had any since being on my parents as a child. I have already had to file bankruptcy once because of doctor and hospital bills and well on my way to needing a second. Thank you to the 219 Reps that actually do care about me. Hopefully I can now by my children some new school cloths instead of those hand me downs they are wearing because I have to pay for health care out of my pocket. This bill could possibly have just saved my personal economic crisis soley driven by the cost of healthcare. Don't worry my two little beautiful daughters, these are tears of joy, daddy might actually have a lil bit of money in his pocket soon.
i will do everything in my power as a citizen . to remove from congress all who supported this. I will also work harder against this President than ever before . I have been apolitical but NO MORE !!!!!
I am a bartender, and I work in Texas. Insurance to me is like the pot of gold at the end. I make 2.13 an hour and have tried for years to get insurance on my own..but no luck. I went to work today and someone told me to get a real job. Didn't have much to say, since I was making his shot and reading my book for school!! Just give me a chance!!!!
I have a pre-existing condition. I was laid off over a year ago. I've been denied ins coverage from several med ins companies. So yes,I am in favor of the healthcare bill, because this allows me to continue with the doctors I've been working with for yrs, which are familiar with my case. 'God continues to answer prayers'..
You asked so here it is. I do not agree with or support the new health care bill. How will it affect me? Hopefully, it won't but if it is true that the bill will be administered by 16,000 new IRS employees, I doubt that anyone will escape the interference. The people you who appeared on your show who are sure it will not affect them should make sure their health care plans are compliant. I do not currently have health care coverage because I do not have a job. That would have been a better use of time and energy for Congress than the corruption, coercion and buying votes that we have all just witnessed. Can't wait to see what happens in November. I think we have a better memory than they expect.
I agree that this bill is not perfect, but it is a good first step on the road to real reform. I am a single payer fan, but don't know if that is workable here in light of the strong opposition that even this fairly innocuous bill garnered. What the health care debate – and some of the other comments on this page- indicate is that there is a lot of disinformation and fear-mongering out there and that a substantial number of people fall for it. As we move forward, I hope that reformers are better able to articulate the cost argument: that we spend double what any other nation spends on a per capita basis, with worse overall health outcomes by many different metrics. We cannot afford to give all possible treatments to everyone at every stage of disease or illness – we will have to prioritize what is covered according to cost- and comparative- effectiveness and develop a national sensibility that values evidence over anecdotes as the basis for health care decision-making.
As someone who is going to be a college student for a while (I will be attending graduate school next year and eventually get my Ph.D) this reform has taken a lot of stress off of me. The college that I am attending next years requires its students to have health insureance and as a low income student there is no way I can afford it (especially since I have a pre-existing condition). I am also happy to see that it will not cost me an arm and a leg to realize my dream of obtaining a Ph.D. in psychology/neuroscience!
How did 216 votes pass the bill when 51% was needed of 436, house members vice president which equals 222 votes = 51% of 435 house members ir 223 = 51% of 435 house members The vice president's possible vote. 216 smells like corruption!
In my family, several of us have pre-existing conditions. I also have adult age children who have been and will be in that gap between college and their first job with benefits. I have also been through a bankruptcy due to a medical event. This passing of the bill is what changes looks like, it's not neat and tidy, it's not perfect but it is a step in the right direction. I am saddened that others are merely spouting platitudes and hate talk and not looking around at their neighbors who need this.
Political debate has always been 'heated' and 'raw'. It is the strength of our two-party system. We Americans will continue to rush to the polls to vote our convictions. The American glass remains half full rather than half empty. But we would do well to remember the advice of Thumper, 'If you can't say sumpin nice. Don't say nuttin at all.'
30 MILLION!!!! 30 Million Americans! Yet we speak of them with less value than bean counting. Each a live breathing human being time 30 Million.
USA once again proved that this country can rise to its highest position when a crisis arises. It proved its goodness when social security, medicare was passed and once again by passing the Health care reform vote withgout a single Republican vote.
I can make one simple prediction. The 31 Democrats who sided with Republican yesterday will pay a severe price including my Congressman
Steven Lynch of Massachusetts. I will lead a campaign in my district against Congressman Lynch.
Finally salute to President Obama. You are a strong leader and you proved. You are for the people, of the people and by the people. POresident Obama you lead and we all are behind you.
Can't someone write a bill that makes sense to the average American? This bill isn't written in English.
How soon will Rush Limbaugh be leaving the country? Inqury minds wanna' know!
This bill, including the reconciliation package, is a good start, but it needs the insurance company reforms to go into effect immediately...NOT in three or four years!! And, we still need a single-payer system, like Medicare for all. Since when does health care have to be for profit? I believe it should be a non-profit system.
I fought and fought for this bill to pass, and I am so thankful that it finally did. It's not perfect, but it's a start. Now comes the reality check:
Until the law goes in to effect, the insurance companies are going to jack up premiums exponentially (on the idiots that have been protecting them), because the insurance companies know the jig is up. Â Meanwhile the idiots are going to blame Obama until the law gives the idiots relief. Â Not until then, will it then be respected and defended by the idiots who are currently too blind to see the truth.
Just sayin'... prepare yourself.
Finally, they did something. I am an independent. I have tried to keep an neutral view of politics but what I have seen by the "Republicans" and Conservative has made me sick of politics..they are so very biter and vendictive. Ever since Obama was elected all I have heard from Republicans and concservatives on practically everything is NO NO NO....they want everthing their way and are not willing to compromise. What??? Their ads about healthcare using fear and fabrication did nothing but push me further away (and I did read up on the bill). I have family and friends with pre-existing conditions who now have an opportunity for coverage. Something had to change. The insurance companies are dictating to doctors what to do, throwing people out of hospitals before they are fully recovered because they don't wan to pay. I pay premiums for a good coverage and, still, I have to hassle with the company to pay the bills. I am not saying this bill is perfect far from it but it can be adjusted. They are doing something to help Americans who really need assistance.
I see it hypocritical for the Republican lawmakers, who are a an elemental part of government, to oopse government' expansion into our lives by tying to kill a bill that would have their constituents more healthcare options. By trying to kill a bill that would have provided more medical options to choose from, they themselves have are attempted to make that choice for the average American – which is a major government intrusion into the medical affairs of citizens for the US.
What saddens and frightens me is the right wing use of lies and fear ongering to misinform the public and turn them against reform. It's no different than inciting a riot and creating an irrational mob mentality. It tramples ove the democratic process. It's no different than the big lie the Nazis used. People are fighting against something based on misinformed assumptions. The right will do anything to get back into power and sadly our citizens are falling for it.
32 Million Americans line up for health care. Take a number. Line up behind all the others in countries that want Americans to help them.
Rush Limbaugh said that, if the healthcare bill was passed he would leave the country. Please announce his estimated time of departure so I can be there to wish him Bon Voyage.
gotta say i think this is GOOD for work and jobs as well.
most of us get our health insurance through work but in a modern world where employment is becoming ever more transitory, losing a job means much more than just losing pay. it's losing access to sometimes essential treatment. now, workers are more free to enjoy the advantages of a "free agent" workplace.
also, we live in a world where all other first world employees get government subsidized health care. that's something that detroit companies found out first hand and had difficulty competing against.
well shazam, american workers have all of a sudden become a heckuva lot more competitive.
way to go dems. way to go obama.
My senior parents lost their company givenretirement benefit of health insurance and drug coverage last year. We recently just spent over $400 in CO-PAYS alone for a 30 day supply of medications. We anticipate their 90 perscriptions to be well over $1,000!! These are LIFE SUSTAINING MEDICATIONS!! We are so happy this new law will help discount medications during that "donut hole" period. we can't even imagine how much these would cost full price!! Thank you to those who REALLY looked out for the American public. Not just with what they THOUGHT we wanted, but what we ACTUALLY needed!!
For the last dozen years, my wife and I have felt like indentured servants, having to stay and work for a company just to keep our healthcare plans. It was no longer good enough to have another job waiting before you left your current one, the new job had to have a certain level of healthcare and accept pre-exisiting conditions.
Once again, American's are about to be given back their freedom by having a health plan that can not be taken away from them no matter who they work for. Imagine looking for another job without having to worry about your healthcare.
Could this be the beginning of workers becoming more vocal about work conditions and company morales/values now that this threat of no healthcare has been taken away? Will we now be able to throw off the shackles forced on us by the healthcare industry? I certainly hope so.
I'm happy we took a step toward fixing health care. But, I am concerned that the insurance companies now have a few years to find ways around the new provisions. Like the banking industry, the new credit laws were great, but the lag time for implementing the laws allowed the banks to take advantage of consumers. I don't trust the insurance companies anymore than I trust the banks. How will the consumer be protected until 2014+?
Here is a question that I have not heard asked. The health care debate has ragged on for decades, some say close to 90 years. Washington has not helped until now. How many people have died unnecessarily because they did not have coverage? I also think it is ironic that the republican party is so concerned about abortion rights but after a child is born we are ok to let them be on the streets and starve and if they get sick, were not willing to help them. but we can send billion oversees.
What your report failed to mention was that most of the rancor came from those opposed to health care reform. Much of it organized by Dick Armey's FreedomWorks foundation that is funded by tobacco, pharmaceutical and banking interests. Also, that it was pumped up by people like Glenn Beck and Russ Limbaugh, and by outright lies about things like death panels from people like Sarah Palin.
I am hugely disappointed in the Democrats who voted against this bill. For the most part, our representatives are interim employees. How dare they vote to keep their seats instead of doing what is right. If this bill isn't a clear example of what the Democratic party represents, I don't know what is.
If the USA can find the funds to pay almost a trillion dollars on Iraq, then how is it that the Republicans are so dead set against spending the same amount here on our own soil to try to restructure the health care system which was killing 45000 Americans every single year?
What has become crystal clear to me about the politics in America over the past 15 months is the clear hatred and blatant disrespect of a Black man sitting in the Oval Office. At the heart of the dysfunctionality over Health Care, is the fact that President Barack HUSSEIN Obama will go down in history for having win this one – a fact that republicans CANNOT come to grips with; what is missing is the fact that it is for THE AMERICAN PEOPLE! And to think as a teacher of social studies, I have to convey this to my students, the leaders of tomorrow! This is truly sad.....
President Obama has restored my faith in him and the Congress. All of them did the right thing and thumbed their nose @ the health insurers. For once I will be able to go to the doctor without fear of adding to my debt that has be put on me by Bush and his crew. I'm proud to be an AMERICAN.
I am thrilled to see the health care reform passed by congress. I can't beleive some of the twisting of words the republican party tries to pass off as thuth. They are basically interested in big business and how can you make businesses better if Mr. and Mrs. USA can't have health care or jobs to use those businesses. Republicans need to get out there and live a month in my shoes.
After all of this bickering in Washington a large part of America will still not be touched with this bill. We are still struggling to pay our ever rising premiums. Where is the relief?
Yes, The healthcare debate has changed d.c. forever.
The underlying problem is Racism not the healthcare debate itself.
The people are angry that We have a black president!
The disrespect that is constantly being rammed down our throats by Rush,Beck Hannity and the rest on racist radio. It has gone unchecked and there has been tolerance.
Believe me the Real Americans are not angry over getting a healthcare bill passed. These politicians are mad because they are bought and paid for.
After two brain surgeries for a recurrent brain tumor, I had to leave my job. I'm very lucky to have a husband with good insurance, but if he were to be laid off from his job - or get hit by a bus - no one in the universe would insure me, with my preexisting conditions. And there's no way, without insurance, that we could afford the surgery which, my neurosurgeon tells me, I'll inevitably need at some point in the future. I've often wondered, during this debate, just what I, or others like me, would do in that situation.
To me, this bill is about compassion, and economic foresight. And 59,000 Catholic nuns can't be wrong! Thank you
I am happy the bill passed although it is scraps. I wanted the public option. I don't want healthcare tied to employers. It is too expensive for the employer and prevents people from being able to change jobs. I work in human resources and I deal with plenty of employees who hate their job but won't resign or retire because they are afraid of losing health insurance.
My ancestors who fought in the Revolutionary War just turned over in their grave. This is not the direction that our founders chose for us!
I feel that the Constitution has been ignored. the government took control of the auto industry. Now medical care and soon immigration. This is the United Socialist States of America. I fear for the future of this country.
@Peggy T and Jessica – John and Kiran just read your comments on-air. Continue the conversation folks! We want to know what you think of the health care reform bill. Share your stories with us!
Now that the legislation has passed it is time for an all out effort for patients and law-makers to push efforts to stop the fraud and abuse of the Medicare and Medicaid systems. Patients have it in their hands to rid the most helpful government programs in our nation of the waste and fraud that has robbed the system of much needed funds thereby jeopardizing the life of the systems. Laws need to be enforeced and those who would fraud the systeme need to be swiftly punished, be they physicians or just plain crooks. We can pay for much of the healthcare reform just passed by using the funds that would be made available by eliminating the fraud that goes on.
I'm a premature baby with a stigmatism, asthma and I've ruptured an eardrum. This bill means that I can finally purchase health insurance to treat some of my pre-existing conditions, some of which have existed as long as I have.
Saw this and can't resist sharing it as it reflects my thoughts:
stolen from someone else, "If I can't stop my tax dollars from funding war, then you have no right to demand that yours aren't used to pay for abortions."
Good morning!
We're breaking down the health care bill for you this morning. Our Elizabeth Cohen will show us who could be paying less, and who could end up paying more for this reform.
And coming up at 8:10 – we have Dr. Bill Frist, former Republican Senate Majority Leader, and Dr. David Satcher, former U.S. Surgeon General, to offer an insider's perspective on the legislation, the politics and what we can expect next.
I am a 21 year old college senior on my mother's insurance. As of now, I have yet to find post graduation empolyment and one of my biggest fears was that upon graduation I would be forced into the world with no job and no health care. With this reform I have one less thing to worry about. I've been alotted a little more time and I am very grateful. Not to mention the pending student loan reform. Finally the government is helping all it's citizens, especially the needy students.
I am glad that Congress acted. However, President Obama was correct when he said this bill is not perfect. If the plan is to increase Medicaid recipients, at the same time, there will be an increase in abuse of the health care system. Medicaid recipients either have more health care issues than the same age group non-Medicaid recipients or they are quick to seek health care due to it not costing them even a penny. I believe adding even a minimum co-pay for Medicaid recipients would decrease frequent unnecessary doctor visits. Many times Medicaid recipients wake up with minor symptoms and decide to seek medical care before even taking a tylenol at home. Maybe it is an health care education issue that needs to be added. However, adding a small co-pay would be even more effective.
If nothing else, I learned a lot about how the House works...and I'm proud of my Representative, who voted yes.
As a person in their mid twenties, I am scared for our future. Our kids and their kids will be footing the bill for this. Government run health care will certainly not be cheaper. The cost of everything that the government puts their hand skyrockets. Next the government will be telling us what we can and can't eat!
How is this Bill supposed to help those who cannot afford health care? The law-makers need to get out of their offices and take a look at real life. How does any reasonable person expect to collect $625 dollars in fines from someone who cannot AFFORD health care insurance in the first place? What's wrong with you people?
I don't believe this bill will affect me at all. Why? Because there are so many violations of the 10th Amendment in this bill that it will be contested in The Supreme Court. I believe very little, if any, of this bill will ever happen. No clearer case for a test of the 10th Amendment has existed in my lifetime. This thing is junk. It is Dead On Arrival at The Supreme Court.
One of the reasons I voted for Obama was for health care reform – with a PUBLIC OPTION. Although this bill will help in some ways in terms of limited the power of insurance companies, the majority of ways it becomes an additional burden to me as a small business owner. It's difficult enough in this economy to afford to my health insurance, now, when I'm in a slow period, i will have to choose between being fined by the government if I let my insurance lapse or to pay employees or buy groceries. If we had had a public option, then the prices of insurance would have been driven down significantly through competition with the government and this would not have been an issue. Thanks for the half-baked job on healthcare – sometimes something isn't always better than nothing.
I am a physical therapy student about to graduate with 7 years of higher education. Anyone hiring because healthcare is screwed?
I am very thankful that the health care reform passed. I am sorry that Mary Fallin saw fit to vote 'no'..........but then, she's a Republican.
While I am covered by a workplace insurance program, I am happy about the passing of this reform. I feel a bit more confident about my coverage and my say in that coverage. I believe anything worth doing, well, it's worth fighting for. I do understand the Republican aruguments against the bill, but I must side with the millions of Americans who will now have heath insurance. Health and well-being before dollars and cents. I just hope that the Congress' in the future, will continue the battle for health...for everyone.