Rockdale Citizen

So, even after the new health care legislation has passed, the debate goes on. Did you read about the Florida urologist who posted a sign on his office door explaining his refusal to treat Obama supporters? He feels the new law makes it impossible for him to uphold the Hippocratic Oath and care for his patients as he would like. A Democratic congressman has threatened to file a suit against him.

The president and Congress are taking some heat for their handling of this legislation. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce isn't all that happy. Members plan to spend $50 million between now and November to impact the re-election of those who voted for the health care bill.

Georgia's Attorney General will not join the attorney generals in 14 other states suing the feds over passage of this law. Democrats keep telling us that once we know what is in this law, everyone will be happy. Does anyone really know what is in this law and will it take years to find out? Four or more? As the president travels about selling the law, he is experiencing high euphoria. The people have mostly anxiety. Only about 44 percent approve of his handling of his job.

What you hear on the street is about how this legislation was passed without the proper study and in haste through backroom deals. Voters did not like the display of arrogance, having their views ignored and the obvious abuse of power. What will some of the deals made to get votes for the passage of this legislation finally cost taxpayers?

Voters are still confused about what just happened to them. There are so many unanswered questions. Will it be harder to deduct health care expenses from income taxes? Is or isn't the law constitutional? Are illegals covered and who pays for them and 30 million more people added to the rolls? Seniors ask if Medicare benefits will be cut and if insurance rates will rise. Will care be more limited? As concerns arise, confidence in the president and Congress erodes. It appears the law was voted on by many who had not read it. They chose to exempt themselves from this legislation and the costs are to be borne by a nation already in economic crisis with many people jobless.

We do have a health care crisis. The question asked is whether or not the new law solves all the problems, or does it create more problems; and, are the costs going to be more staggering than predicted?

Skeptical Americans still seem bitter about this new health care legislation and worry about job losses and the ever rising national debt. So far, all of the president's trips around the country touting the new law have not calmed the waters of discontent. Our leaders will be tinkering with this 2,400-page reform law for years before all the kinks and ambiguities are ironed out.

Right now, 40 medical societies are against the new reform legislation. They complain Medicare payments are already too low; and, additionally, they expect a doctor shortage by 2025. Even with all the public concern, the AARP feels there is plenty in the new legislation that will have public benefit. This organization encourages everyone to support health care reform.

Jack Simpson is a former educator, veteran, author, and a law enforcement officer. His column appears each Friday.