Americans know health problems, want change

The survey conducted Aug. 25 to 26 by Iowa AARP members has clearly addressed current health care issues.

This and other fact-finding actions by other Americans clearly dispel the myths being spread regarding the proposals about health care. AARP's 50-plus age members have expressed clearly their desire that something needs to be done now.

There are four key areas that the survey participants have expressed strong opinions about:

1.) Need for health care reform. Two-thirds or

63 percent of Iowa members said the system needs major changes or a complete overhaul. And 28 percent indicated at least minor changes were needed.

2.) Need for health care reform now. Seventy-five percent of Iowans said it is important for Congress to enact new policies this year to improve the health care system.

3.) Need for access to health care. Seventy-nine percent said it is very important or extremely important for all Iowans to have access to affordable, quality health care. Seventy-nine percent also support requiring health insurance companies to provide access to all who apply regardless of pre-existing conditions or prior illness.

4.) Need for Medicare reform. Ninety-six percent of Iowa members support steps to reduce fraud and abuse in the Medicare system. Eighty-seven percent support promoting Medicare programs that reward healthy behaviors. Eighty-one percent support reimbursing Medicare providers based on quality and outcomes of care rather than the quantity of services provided.

The American people know the problems and support change.

Marlys Floyd

Treasurer, AARP

Retired nurse

Cedar Rapids