David Skaggs: “some people around here are saying to our health-care system: You're really not so bad off. Take two aspirin and call me…”

“some people around here are saying to our health-care system: You're really not so bad off. Take two aspirin and call me in a few years if your symptoms persist. I say the problems are more serious, and we need tougher medicine. I recently got this letter from a woman who lives in Boulder, CO, who would probably agree. She writes: I recently lost my job. My problem is health insurance. In order to remain with the same [insurance] company under COBRA, I would have to pay over $500 per month for my family of five. Before losing my job, 25% of my paycheck, after taxes, went towards health insurance. * * * Health care is out of control. * * * Soon only the rich will be able to afford the basics. I appeal to you as a mother and a constituent, disease is never fair, but maybe you can help to put some fairness back in health. Those who say there is nothing wrong should get outside Washington, DC, and listen to those who have to live with the current system.”