A look at why people oppose “Government healthcare”, “One Payer” the “Public Option”, or whatever else you want to call it.

A look at why people oppose “Government healthcare”, “One Payer” the “Public Option”, or whatever else you want to call it.

Looking at the “Cash for Clunkers” program we can see several things that would parallel concern for government involved in healthcare.

I think it is fair to say, and that we can all agree that this program is smaller and simpler than re-designing the entire healthcare system, with fewer variables, on every level.

#1) They underestimated the cost. It was a 1 Billion Dollar program that went 3x over budget. The money for the Program was increased from 1 to 3 Billion Dollars = HUGE cost overrun.

#2) they put conditions on what qualifies for the program,standards your car must meet, and restrictions on what you must buy, regardless of what you may or may not want.

#3) the providers (dealers) have an increased demand, now that it will cost the end consumer less. (See #1)

#4) they are not efficient, they have had major problems getting the dealers paid, most have not seen one dime in “reimbursement” from the Government, due to technical and bureaucratic “issues.”

#5) there are now less Providers. (Dealers) In NY State there are a group of dealers who are pulling out of the program due to concerns they have not been repaid, and can no longer afford to wait for the Government payment, so they will no longer participate (provide Service)

#6) There are now thousands and thousands of cars that would have found their way into junkyards, or been resold that are no longer there. This is a serious consequence that has not been discussed…If you want to help “poor” people, why would you force dealers to destroy the cars they may be able to afford.

#7) other industries (and people) are being hurt as well. What about Junkyards? Teenagers who can’t buy a new car? Used car dealers? Auto Wholesalers? Auto Transporters? Replacement tire and battery companies and their retailers? Auto Repair Shops…..and so on, and so on…….

The point is, there are so many parallels to be made with healthcare, and the infinitely more complex issues involved with it, than this program, I don’t see how you can honestly look at this program, and think ….yeah, looks good, this will work for healthcare! Honestly look at each of these issues and think how the proposed healthcare reform would apply to that issue.