Regarding 'The Affordable Care Act', or, as it is more commonly called, 'Obamacare.'
One fundamental and seemingly attractive and humane provision within this law is coverage for 'pre-existing' illnesses and conditions. While this is without question a noble idea, it is one which undeniably will involve significant expense. It is also generally accepted that the ultimate financial viability of 'Obamacare' depends in large part on the enrollment and premium payments of young, relatively heathy Americans. Not surprisingly, premium revenues from this 'young and healthy' contingent will be used to subsidize the expenses of medical care for the 'older and not so healthy' contingent.
When we consider this necessary condition for the fiscal practicality and success of 'Obamacare' in concert with the provision just noted, one elementary question must be asked: What will compel young, relatively healthy individuals to enroll in Obamacare at significant expense when they can legally (and judiciously) pay a small fine for non-enrollment, and subsequently enroll only when, and if, such illness strikes which then makes coverage desirable and financially prudent? Or, analogically, would any of us pay expensive auto insurance premiums, if we had the legal option to pay a much smaller fine instead, and then purchase coverage only after a financially burdensome accident?
How will this financial model ever work?
I've yet to see this question asked in its entirety, or answered directly and honestly.
Responsible comments are heartily solicited and welcome.
Respectfully submitted,
Dick Keaton
