Considering universal healthcare

When your employer does not provide health coverage, when you do not qualify for public assistance, or when you cannot afford private health care, what happens? As a social work intern, I have heard many personal accounts of individuals and families who are uninsured or under-insured. For many of us who have some form of health care, we take for granted the reality that not everyone has the same options. Our health and well-being affects multiple areas of our lives including, learning, work performance , interpersonal relationships and self-esteem.

"Universal" does not have to mean sub-standard or mandatory medical coverage. Instead, the idea behind universal health care is that every American should have access to affordable services. Just as public education is offered, a public health care program could be made available to ensure that everyone has access to the same basic care. Instead of unnecessary emergency room visits, harmful and/or inaccurate self-diagnoses, and untreated conditions, there should be a better system in place for those who lack primary health care.