Debate over new health care proposal

Green Bay - Supporters say it's a sign health care reform is headed in the right direction. But the latest health care proposal still includes a public option -- something many Republicans are against.

The bill was introduced last week by House Democrats. On Monday, Congressman Steve Kagen (D-8th District) discussed the changes with seniors in Brown County.

"They've taken the previous bill and merged it with two other bills from the House," said Kagen.

Kagen said it will ensure coverage for everyone and drive down prices.

"(It's) going towards the direction of a market place driven health care system where if there's going to be a public option it will be based on a negotiated market place rate," said Kagen.

Michelle Maisonneuve says it would be beneficial for her. She's a survivor or a rare type of cancer and said she needs an additional surgery to prevent infection.

"I want to get back to a normal ... Somewhat normal life," said Maisonneuve, of Sturgeon Bay.

Maisonneuve said her insurance will not cover the procedure, and she has already paid thousands of dollars out of pocket to cover related medical expenses.

"I just don't think people realize the problems that are out there until you really need your insurance," said Maisonneuve.

Many Republican lawmakers, however, believe the cost of the new proposal is just too high. At a cost of more than $800-billion, they say it also puts an unfair burden on taxpayers.

"The system has been broken for decades. To fix it in six months, I think is unrealistic," said Dr. Ashok Rai, the president and CEO of Prevea Health.

Dr. Rai said the current proposal does not do enough to address the shortage of physicians or the need to protect doctors against lawsuits.

"My biggest frustration when we talk about reform in health care ... We purely talk about payment reform and covering an uninsured or under-insured population. The entire system should be looked at. You can't just fix one part of it and expect the rest of it to compensate," said Rai.

Kagen said he expects the House to vote on the bill before Thanksgiving.