Debate emphasis on money unhealthy

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November 13, 2009

BY DR. RODOLFO FURIGAY The Tribune-Democrat Fri Nov 13, 2009, 02:44 PM EST

As debate for health-care reform continues, it is discouraging to note that the point of much emphasis is cost-cutting and saving money.

I agree that there are savings to be made, but to put a limit on the dollar amount to spend for health care for the next 10 years is not tenable.

Dollars properly spent for the promotion of good health is the best investment anybody can have. The proverbial saying “Health is wealth” remains golden.

The debate for reform should address the following elements:

* Quality health care must be made affordable and accessible to everyone;

* Insurance reforms must include elimination of pre-existing conditions and lifetime limits on total spending and not vary premiums based on health status; must expand choice and access to coverage for those who are self-insured or employed by small businesses; and must include a public option.

* Patient-physician decision-making should be empowered respecting the principles of freedom of choice and freedom of physician practice.

* Respect for human dignity and respect for life at all stages of development and respect for conscience must be honored. Mandated coverage for abortion should be excluded and no one should be required to pay for or participate in an abortion.

* Accountability: a.) Health-care providers must practice evidence-based medicine, which also happens to be the most cost-effective care that can be provided, and b.) Prevention and wellness must be promoted. The health-care consumer must be accountable for unhealthy habits and lifestyles.

* Meaningful tort reform: Putting a limit on non-economic damages award is not unreasonable. It’s working in California and Texas and is saving money. Defensive medicine is costing in excess of $50 billion a year. Defensive medicine is not promoting good health; indeed, it may even be harmful.

* Ethical research and development must continue to be promoted and funded.

Dr. Rodolfo L. Furigay is a physician at Windber Medical Center. He was the 2009 recipient of the Apollo Award, which is given to a physician or member of a physician’s family for dedication and service to the community.

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