Changing workplace factor in health reform

In the Aug. 5 editorial, “A hunger to learn about health care,” I saw that just one of the Corridor leaders at the forum organized by The Gazette and KCRG-TV9 did not support a public option. And, a group of mostly middle aged and senior attendees was roughly split. Why the difference?

There seems to be an information gap. Possibly, many people are unaware of our changing workplace. A generation ago, job security and employer-provided health care was at its peak, but this is not the case today. We now are seeking new jobs a minimum of six to 10 times during the course of our working years. There are also trends suggesting that many employers eventually will exclude major health care benefits even if they are affordable.

But, it's not only the corporate employed who are less secure. The Aug. 7 guest column “Include farmers in debate” told us where they stand. Always keep in mind that if you are unemployed, underemployed or temporarily employed, you are on your own.

These are some of the points that many politicians want to avoid talking about and the Obama administration clearly understands.

It's time to ask ourselves: deal or no deal? A public option makes sense now more than ever.

James Spoden

Cedar Rapids