Changing the Subject

The reaction of the editors at Bloomberg’s reaction to the recent Republican healthcare reform plan reminds me of one of Samuel Johnson’s famous wisecracks: “Sir, a woman’s preaching is like a dog’s walking on his hind legs. It is not done well; but you are surprised to find it done at all.”

I don’t have any particular fondness for the Republicans’ plan. I do wonder when the Democratic talking point will change from “they don’t have a plan” to “their plan doesn’t add up”. Maybe that won’t be the line of attack since it might highlight the reality that the PPACA doesn’t add up, either. How about “look at how many people will be hurt!”

It will change the subject, though.

My objection to the Republican plan is the same as the reason for my disappointment with the PPACA: neither one addresses the most pressing problem with healthcare, i.e. the increase in the cost of healthcare continues to outstrip the increases in revenues and the increases in income which practically by definition means it’s not affordable. As Uwe Reinhardt put it, it’s the prices, stupid.

2 comments… add one
  • steve Link

    Most times I have seen the term “common sense” used in a short paper. I suggest we call it a “plan” until it actually becomes a plan. The GOP always circulates a “plan” when they need to for political purposes, but they never spend any effort or political capital on them. I guess it is not as bad as some efforts I have seen, though it is so vague it is hard to tell, but I do find it amusing that they think sending everything back to the states will make everything better. The states have been in charge of regulating insurance and health care all along, and that is how we got to the point where things need reform.

    Steve

  • steve Link

    Ok, can’t resist one more comment. They are going to send health care back to the states, but also enable the sell of insurance across state lines. Ho can that not crack you up? Do you think they had anyone proof read this, or do they assume no one really cares?

    Steve

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