Health care costs across America have become impossible today for everyone - for small businesses, local and state governments, the uninsured, working families, and most especially for our senior citizens.  As a doctor and because one-third of my patients could not afford their prescriptions, I entered into politics. 

We must begin to think differently in America.  For many of my patients, it’s either skip a pill or skip a meal.  As a physician, I see and feel this crisis every day.  I am currently working on legislation that will guarantee access to affordable care for all of us.  I believe by establishing these essential elements in a single piece of federal legislation that all Americans will have access to the health care we deserve.  First, all prices for procedures and prescriptions must be openly disclosed.  Second, the same discounts must be secured for all citizens, so we all pay the same price for the same health service or product. And third, we must form a single insurance risk pool nationwide 300 million strong to leverage down prices for insurance coverage and prescription drugs.

We must also establish a standard health insurance policy to be sold by each and every insurance company nationwide - a basic policy that covers you from head-to-toe without any discrimination against anyone due to any pre-existing conditions.  In other words, if it's in your body - it's covered, and if you're a citizen - you're in. 

I believe by passing this kind of substantial health care reform, we will significantly reduce excessive and non-competitive health care costs. This initiative takes the work of many individuals and groups, and I look forward to working with the Senior Citizens League to make certain health care becomes more affordable for every single citizen, everywhere in the United States.

Congressman Steve Kagen serves the 8th District of Wisconsin.  To learn more visit: http://kagen.house.gov/.   

July 2007