The ailing live in fear

The ailing live in fear

EDITOR:

My parents are self-employed and pay for their own health insurance. Because of my mother’s past medical problems, they have had trouble keeping coverage. The best they can get is hospitalization with high deductibles. Not only do they have to pay out-of-pocket for basic health care, but they are afraid to go to the doctor because the insurance might drop them again.

Two months ago, my mother was diagnosed with a serious neurological condition. She had to have surgery. Now, as she recovers, we all hold our breath that the insurance won’t find some reason to drop them and leave them with hefty hospital bills.

Health care reform needs to ensure that every American has access to affordable, dependable insurance options. The skyrocketing costs of health care need to be curbed by streamlining the system and investing in preventative care. Congress needs to stick to these principles and resist the pressures to take small steps.

KRISTA BIRNBAUM

Youngstown