Employer based Health Insurance: A major source of anxiety

The Secretary of Health and Human Services is releasing a new report today that shows significant insecurity among workers who receive health insurance through their employers. "Millions of Americans depend on their job for health benefits, but more and more of these families have seen their coverage disappear," writes Jeanne Lambrew, Director, HHS Office of Health Reform.

The Secretary's report notes that "A full one in six Americans with employer-sponsored insurance in 2006 lost that coverage by 2008." This fact is extremely important when you consider 9.75% national unemployment rate. When people lose their jobs, they lose their family health insurance and must seek alternative coverage. Since there are very few insurance company options, and since the insurance companies are motivated by profit, obtaining health insurance for their family costs 60% more than employer funded plans in out of pocket costs for deductibles and co-payments. The report further reveals that almost 75 percent of individuals looking for coverage on the individual market never bought a plan, with 61 percent of those who did not purchase the insurance citing premium cost as the primary reason. This is the health insurance company's way of kicking a person while they are down.

Please visit www.HealthReform.gov and read the complete report. It’s a powerful argument in favor of real reform that will give American families the security and stability they require.

Last night, President Obama spoke to our nation about his health care plan. He pointed out the necessity for reform and attempted to dispel the fictitious ramblings and misinformation generated by Health Care NOW opposition. The opposition will NOT STOP it's effort to defeat Health Care Reform. There is too much money at stake and too much special interest influence to stop the lies, hate mongering, and craziness expressed by the opposition. We, THE PEOPLE, must take responsibility to ensure Health Care NOW. This is a critical time and we are closer to health insurance reform than ever before. Please call, write, or email, your Senators and Congressperson and demand support for Health Care Reform. With your involvement and support, we will make Health Care NOW a reality.