Healthcare coverage for all American is a hotly debated topic. On both sides of the debate are individuals with valid points. Theoretically, universal healthcare coverage would reduce illness and mortality rates. Yet, those benefits are balanced by the increased taxes required to offset the cost. Although implementing a plan may be difficult, providing health care coverage for all of America is the most humane thing that can be done. It is unfortunate that America is one of the only industrialized countries that does not have universal coverage for its citizens.
“Today, an African American baby born in the United States is 2.5 times more likely to die before his or her first birthday than his or her White counterparts. In 2000, 83,500 more African Americans died than would have died if we had eliminated disparities in health in the last century” (Satcher & Higginbotham, 2008, p. 400). It is a shame that 83,500 deaths could have been prevented in one year. Faced with those statistics, many would find it difficult to find an individual that would rather have a couple extra dollars instead of another innocent person dying.
“About 56% of Americans would prefer universal coverage to the current U.S. system, and 68% feel providing coverage for everyone is more important that keeping taxes down” (Shepherd & Silva, 2007, p. 2). The support is evident throughout America, yet implementing a plan has proven difficult. A first step in implementing such a plan was taken by California in December 2007.
“On December 17, California’s Assembly approved Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s plan for universal health insurance. Although several other states have revamped their systems, California’s plan is seen as a potential model for national reform” (Healthcare Financial Management, 2008, p. 10). For California to implement a plan for universal healthcare, the estimated costs are $14 billion (Healthcare Financial...