Letters to the editor: Oct. 31, 2022

Unite to combat health care costs

As a physician, I have seen firsthand the devastation that results from inadequate health insurance coverage. That is why I founded the Asclepius (Greek god of healing) Initiative, a group whose mission is to improve the health and economic stability of Kentuckians, through educating, inspiring and mobilizing people to advocate for a universally accessible, affordable, equitable and high-quality healthcare delivery system.

The Asclepius Initiative recently conducted an online survey of 1,000 adult Kentuckians, which found that two thirds (67%) of respondents favor a government health plan that would provide health insurance for everyone. In addition, three-fourths (75%) feel health care is a basic human right.

With the rising costs of health care, many people avoid, skip or stop medical care or medication because of the cost. As a doctor, I find this unacceptable.

The U.S. spends more money per capita than any other country on health care, yet life expectancy is shorter. The online survey found as a result of medical costs:

59% of Kentuckians have avoided going to the doctor.

53% skipped or stopped follow-up care.

43% skipped or stopped medication.

31% were unable to purchase food.

10% declared bankruptcy.

The numbers clearly demonstrate there is a strong desire for a major and systemic change of the current healthcare system. Many politicians, insurance companies and other major groups claim that a national plan wouldn't work and would cost too much. A universal healthcare system actually would cost less, and save lives, according to a study published in The Lancet, February 2020.

Review our survey findings at www.asclepiusinitiative.org. We need change in our healthcare delivery system. We know it will not be easy, but by reducing or eliminating barriers to access of care we can prolong the lives of countless Kentuckians. It works in other developed countries like Germany, Canada, Japan and the UK. And they have better outcomes at lower cost. Aren't we worth it?

Dr. Susan Bornstein, OB/GYN

Founder of the Asclepius Initiative

Louisville

Misinformation spread about Amendment 2

I am increasingly concerned about the lies being perpetuated by pro-choice activists surrounding the upcoming vote on Amendment No. 2. I repeatedly have received deceptive mailings, texts, and advertisements claiming that a 'yes' vote on this amendment will "permanently ban abortion access in all cases with no exceptions". The public needs to know that this is an outright lie. And this media blitz shows the true colors of those forces behind such a campaign to sway voters. They cannot be trusted when truth is at stake.

Amendment #2 is very straightforward and (hopefully) will be printed in full on your ballot. Its objective is to clarify that Kentucky's Constitution cannot be construed to provide a right to abortion. It also states that if abortion is legal, there is no requirement for the state to fund it. It says NOTHING about banning abortion. It simply sets a boundary against calling abortion a constitutional 'right' and limits the ability of lawmakers to appropriate tax dollars to support or subsidize it.

Please research the issues as you prepare to vote in the upcoming elections. Do not base your decisions on deceptive ads or hearsay. Know the issues, the candidates, their values, and their voting records if available. Make sure that you vote for the persons or issues that most closely aligns with your beliefs and worldview. Don't let someone else tell you what to think and believe. Exercise your freedom as if your life and liberty depend on it.

Dara Bryant

Elizabethtown