Are we going to let John die?

[Louisiana1976]

If Joe Lieberman or other senators came across John Brodniak writhing in pain on the sidewalk, they presumably would jump to help him and rush him to a hospital.

Unfortunately, an emergency room won’t help — indeed, the closest E.R. has told him not to come back, he says. So, for those members of Congress who are wavering on health reform, listen to John’s story.

snip


http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/29/opinion/29kristof.html

[47of74]

1. Joe Lieberman wouldn't

He's THAT heartless.

[midnight]

2. This story illustrates the lost leadership on bringing health care to all persons

in this country.

[Traveling_Home]

3. John has insurance - Medicaid

"In August, he qualified for an Oregon Medicaid program..."

Kristoff makes no sense - ER's love Medicaid and live off it; Medicaid surgeries at community hospitals are routine. Medicaid coves pre-existing conditions.

Expanding Medicaid coverage to new groups is a BIG part of the plan.

[laughingliberal]

5. ER's do not love Medicaid when the solution to the problem is beyond their capabilities

He can not find a doctor qualified to treat his condition who accepts Medicaid. Working in home health, I found it very difficult to get the needs of Medicaid patients addressed by a doctor.

[HamdenRice]

4. Leftbaggers: If I can't have my version of Single Payer RIGHT NOW, let him DIE!!! It's worth it!1!

At least that what some of them said on the previously existing condition thread a few weeks ago.

[laughingliberal]

6. This man already has Medicaid which is exactly what he will have with current HCR bills

He does not have income with which to purchase private insurance even with a subsidy. He qualifies for and has Medicaid now even without the expanded income levels. His problem is there is no qualified physician who will accept Medicaid due to the low reimbursement rates. There are no plans to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates to physicians. I don't see how current HCR bills will change anything for him.