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What does it mean when almost half of Americans want to leave the health care system as it is?

It means that the other half of the country understand that an asprine doesn't cost $25.00 when in the hospital.

It means that these folks probably vote against their best interests too.

That is why we do need strong leadership, because some just don't know better..

Jenna
Roseville CA

How big is the survey sample on this – did it only involve Government emplyees such as Congress? Something has got to change – it seems like the primary care physicians are being burned out & fewer medical students are entering primary care medicine. I think when the shortage becomes worse – most of the 50% will change their minds about keping it the same.

What does it mean when almost half of Americans want to leave the health care system as it is?

Jack,
Perhaps the people are afraid of what they will get in the new Health Care Program. It is the unknown of what we will get that is frightful.
Thanks

I'll tell you what it means; people have been so bombarded with so many myths about socialized health care or what ANY change to the system as it is, the people are afraid of change. Most, if not all, Americans know that the current system, which has as its priority the financial bottom line of the company execs and the share holders, is horribly flawed, but the health care industry, including the pharmaceuticals, have so frightened the populace with anecdotal (at best) stories of what might happen if anything is done to change the industry's gravy train, those people of the nearly 50% prefer it as is.

It probably means that either some are young and have no fears, or some are rich and don't care, or others are afraid that things will only get worse if changed. Perhaps when we start sending our elderly out into the wilderness to die, the light will dawn!

It means, of course, that half of us Americans ain't never been sick. Or that half of us own insurance companies or sell drugs.

Seriously though, half of us folks, the abuse of the public has gone far enough. We really do need a sweeping revision of our "health care system". It might start with finally realizing that you are as good as I am, and proceed from there to at least hinting that I pay the same as you for identical "service" and/or medical care. It probably should include some provision for doctors assuming some responsibility for patient conveniences. Perhaps even it – the rervision – should include the possibility that the indigent survive. And (do I dare say it?) the revision could just possibly include some sort of limitation on drug and insurance Corporate Greed.

Yeah, I know, just another bleeding heart liberal speaking.

Half of us? Really? Well, it means we're either the most uninformed nation on earth, the most mis-informed nation on earth, or the dumbest nation on earth. My guess is leaning toward "all of the above."

Bill D.
Champaign, IL

I think it means they have been listening to Republican propaganda! Obama does not want to change your insurance coverage IF you like what you got! But if you don't have insurance or want something better, he will provide that. And since 45 million people are without any insurance at all, this is a no-brainer! We who have insurance are already paying for those who don't since they use emergency rooms and then we have to cover those folks. Give everyone Preventative care and a lot of illiness will never happen.

Why people want it to stay the way it is baffles me. I have health care, at a very costly premium. I'd love to have free health insurance, what's wrong with that? And don't say it's because we'd have to fill out loads of paperwork, and wait days to see a doctor...we do that already! Appointments aren't available for weeks out, and even when you have an "appointment", most are still stuck in the waiting room past their appointment time. If we had universal health care, the only difference would be that it's free.

Many people see the cost of health care to much to even consider paying for . Know the %3 who can afford health care could care less the cost.Being retired we have loss some protection but so far we can live with it . So Jack I think people are afraid to think about funding health care cost..It not any thing but money for family living well or for going any nice small treats in life.

Jack, I think the half that wants the health care system to stay the same are the ones that work in the system.
I don't work in the system, but have spent all our savings on one illness of my wife. It has taken a year and a half to get her back to being able to function on her own.
The only ones that don't want the system to change are the Drug and Insurance companies that have sucked us dry. They spend big bucks to keep us from a HEALTH CARE SYSTEM that will keep us all well and pervent , rather than let us die from something that we find out about too late.

It means half of Americans are uniformed. The U. S. is only #1 in the cost of health care. In most other categories, likeinfant mortality and life expectancy, we're #19, behind Portugal.

It only means that half of Americans don't realize how broke the system is, what it is like to be in the other half. It will continue to get worse if nothing is done. Doctors & hospitals overbill the insured and uninsured alike. Pharmaceutical companies make too much money and the little guy can't even afford the copay. The system is inefficient and the ones that suffer most are the working poor. The AMA and the FDA make you get good drugs by prescription that decent countries let you buy at the grocery store. Nothing in our wonderful country's history ever needed overhaul more than this. The half that said keep it as is IS NOT the uninsured, it is those that are already overpaid.

It means they have good healh insurance for themselves and their families.

This is a case of the Republicans tossing out the misinformation that everyone will have to have the same insurance, one provided by the government. It is astounding that the country that provides the best in treatment willfully prevents so many from having access to it. Where do the pro-life people stand on this issue?

It means that as disfunctional and unfair as the present
system is, it could possibly get worse. Any changes
should involve extensive public discussion, and perhaps
be "trial systems" rather than final answers.

It means those people actually HAVE good health care.

Obviously "almost half" of those Americans who want to leave the health care system as it is are not happy with it. The broader and perhaps most telling question is why. I suspect that despite all the "socialist" rhetoric people in America still believe this is the greatest country on earth but struggle to marry that euphemism with the reality that every major industry in this country (historically altruistic) being run right into the ground by a few greedy guts who prefer to sell America out so long as they remain above the fray...trickle down, trickle down.

Jack, this is a joke, right? Too bad I am not in that half because I am a middle class who get 2/3 US burden and will be in the retirement stage very soon. The current health is suck. I agree with Cori from Colorado.

Jack: It means that at least half of Americans have health care already, or get their health care by stiffing the doctors and hospitals.
The other half realizes that we are all paying for healthcare for the poor in the form of inflated doctor, hospital and prescription costs.

It means it isn't working now as is. It means as humans as Americans, all should receive at least basic health care.

Our health care is thru husbands job. Come winter due to the work he does, winter weather does not allow him to work. And on unemployment until next year, it costs us 711. to keep our insurance for two people. Thats half our income while on unemployment. It is a vicisous circle. He is diabetic and 3 of 13 meds cost over 168. a month to live. We aren't making it We are one step away from being homeless with nothing.

Hurting we are past hurting we are thinking more and more on ways to end this struggle

it means that they likely have reasonable health care, which they are not paying for; it means that they do not understand what it means not to have health care; it means they have not really faced a huge health crisis which is not completely covered by their plan; it means that they have not had to pay $ 250.00 per pill for their condition; should i go on? any one who has had a conversation with those who do not have health care, with those that have huge deductibles because that is the only way they can afford health care or with those that are independent contractors and tiny business owners that have to pay for their own health care would say something's gotta give.

it just means some people do have good health care

Because the populace-at-large is stupid. (Sorry.) If we all paid into a government "pot" for health insurance (like we do for social security) then the government would be the one raking in the profits, like the insurance companies do now. And also, the government could/would have more to say about the cost of our health care. Let's face it; no insurnace company is in business because they are losing money.

Susan
Mansfield, Ohio

Being a Canadian myself or any other Canadian that I talk to get a real laugh out of the American liars who keep telling the U.S. citizens how bad our universal health care plan is and how we as Canadians hate the system.

It's my guess the people who believe these phoney conservatives are the same people who still believe Iraq was involved in the 9/11 attacks as well as thinking Bush has done a great job.

It means only half the country is satisfied with the healthcare they are getting, even though we spend more on healthcare than any other country. 50% may beat the approval rating of Congress and Bush, but it is still a failing grade.

It means I am currently receiving pretty decent benefits at my company. Any changes to healthcare threaten that status.

It means half of the respondants haven't lost their coverage yet, nor have they experienced some medical emergency without that coverage that threatens to bankrupt them quicker than what is happening in the economy currently.

It means that half of the American People do not understand how the Health System Works. People are afraid of Socialism or Welfare; in other words that they will have to pay for other people's health care. They don't understand that they already are. When people don't have healthcare, they go to the emergency rooms. Then they can't pay the bill so the hospital has to write it off or spend thousands trying to collect. Then the rates go up for everyone. Insurance companies now are gouging the system, just like any other big for profit company. I am an RN. I haven't had a raise in 5 years. Dr's are being paid 1/2 of what their fees are and their fees are so high because of that. The big insurance compaines are making fortunes and the big health chains are paying their CEO's and high ranking officers, millions each year, while the rest of us starve. If we make insurance available to all people and do some oversight of the way the industry is run, we will all save money.

It's hard to believe that figure, but apparently it means half the population is on some kind of super duper, employer-based plan they don't have to pay into or are already on a government-sponsored program. It also means they can't see beyond themselves and appreciate the fact many of their fellow citizens are suffering.

Jack,
How many people were polled for this survey? The one on the auto bailout only included a little over a thousand people, and this certainly does not represent the American people, especially if taken in the south.
Cannot imagine anyone thinking our health care system does not need to change. Only those few who have great coverage or the
means to cover expenses could feel that way.
First step should be investigating and cutting the expenses of drugs,
hospitals and the medical system as whole.

It means they already have health care and care little for those who do not. Also, they don't realize that their tax money already pays for emergency room care.

Well, I would have say that over 50% are not being catered too (most likely the ones who need it), and which is definately something wrong. Suggestion: There are countries where a public and private health system co-exist. People who can afford buying health care can go to private hospitals, and those who cannot have government facilities to fall back on. It is a free democracy and people should be allowed to have a choice of health care system.

Jack,
It means that some people are happy with their health. These people are so selfish and shortsighted that they cannot see others pain or needs because it does not effect them. I think it is silly for anyone in this country to be ill housed or ill fed or go without adequate health care.

What it means, is that they are not aware of the number of people who have to declare bankruptcy because of health care bills. No other country in the world has as many bankruptcies related health care bills. Like Barrack Obama said health care should be treated as a right, not a necessity. These people need to take their blinders off!

Jack: The half that wants the system as it is probably includes retirees who are on medicare, and the rest are lucky enough to have insurance. The other half of American adults are the ones who go without care, may never be polled, are generally unhealthy and can't affort to get the care they need. Our life span estimates pale in comparison with European countries & Canada where healthcare is available at no charge or low charge. Just a coincidence?

I believe that Universal Health care will offer far less with regard to medical care than we know. I have taken the time to check out Universal Health Care in Canada and I don't think the people there are at all happy with the plan. Waiting way too long in ER's and waiting to have surgery, for me that is unacceptable.

Does that mean that half of Americans are rich and fully covered? I DON"T THINK SO. Not where I live anyway. Sometimes I wonder how representative some of these polls are, actually. Maybe there are too many polls that ask questions that aren't cognizant of the big picture and the consequences long term.

Not long ago the Canadian public overwhelmingly recognized Tommy Douglas the greatest Canadian ever in the history of the Country.

The reason for him being recognized as the greatest Canadian ever in the history of the country was because he was the founder of our universal health care program.

If that fact alone doesn't show Americans just how much ordinary people value our health care system then nothing will. It's time for Americans to sort through the lies and distortions their corporate and elected trolls keep feeding them on this issue.

i can't believe 1/2 of americans want to leave healthcare the way it is but i assume thats from people like me who have good healthcare plans.i don't believe in socialized medicine like they have in canada or great britian but something must be done to help those people who don't have health insurance at their jobs or can't afford to purchase it.it's a disgrace a country like ours cannot provide health care for those who need it

It means they are not aware of the other half of the country who don't have insurance.

The percentage of Americans who wish to leave health care as is are afraid that any change will be more out-of-pocket expense for nothing in return.

Hmm - Let's see, the US ranks 33 in health care effectiveness, yet we spend twice as much, per capita, on health care as the rest of the developed world.

Yet, half people thinking that's fine does seem believable when one considers that that's about the same percentage of the electorate who voted for George W. Bush for President - twice!!

There is too much evidence and accounts of patients dying due to lack of treatment under socialized medicine. In Great Britain, inspectors reported that only 5 out of 51 hospitals passed the hygene tests. Smokers and obese banned from hospitals in the UK. Cancer patients told life-prolonging treatment too expensive for NHC. Elderly patients can be refused medical attention due to lack of doctors and an excess of younger patients. There are too many negatives to list here but they can fill a book if you choose to research them.

Simple - It means one half is saying "I got mine", and the other half don't have health insurance - RB Knoxville

It means they don't understand the problem. They think the options are either the way it is now or socialism. The actual problem is that people think they're covered, but when they get sick the insurance company refuses to pay for treatment. I think if you are insured, hospitals should treat you. If the insurance company doesn't want to pay, have their lawyers call the hospital's lawyers. If they would rather live in court and spend their money that way, fine. Leave the patients out of it. We paid our premiums, and therefore have done our part.

The only reason one half of the people are satisfied with our Healthcare System is because they have good insurance. Ask the same question of them when they lose their job and see what answer you get. Our Healthcare System ranks among the lowest in industrialized nations. We have a Healthcare System that eats up money like a Hummer uses gasoline. It could be improved to where everyone is covered at not nearly the price we are paying for it now. Pharmaceutical and Insurance companies lobbyist have Congress in their pockets when it comes to changing our Healthcare System. They would not even allow Medicare to open up bidding on drugs like the veterans hospitals are allowed.

Because half of the people still have health care from their employers, and therefore don't know how ugly it is out in the real world without it. I finally have health care for the first time in eight years, and I'm treating it like a very breakable piece of porcelain because I don't want it to go away. But I suffered eight years with only minimal care, and that due to a compassionate doctor, and little if any preventative care or lab work. It's scary to be almost 60 with no health care, believe me! Those younger, and those with good health plans don't understand just how scary it is!

The very poor now have health insurancce, it is the E.R. at a cost at least 10 times what a doctor visit would be. The people working 2 or 3 jobs have no oportunity to get help. It is reported that more than 1/2 of those in the E.R. do not have an emergency but can not be turned down, so we pay.
We need a system that pays medical providers a reasonable amount. Medicare does not and most insurance companies have contracts that do not cover the cost.

The health care system now is a joke. It is a game that doctors and hospitals play with insurance companies. Doctors and hospitals overbill because the insurance companies always cut back what they are asking for. Years ago I worked for an organization of five orthopedic surgeons. The first thing they did was send me to a seminar conducted by a Chicago lawyer. He told us," Whenever you deal with insurance companies ,start from the premise that insurance companies are not in business to pay claims." The US needs a un -iversal health care system where the government covers everyone. Set a price for a procedure and that is what the doctor and hospital gets paid. No game playing. Since the government can operate medicaid,I'm sure it could handle universal health care.

I think what some people might be misunderstanding is that if you currently have health care benefits and are happy with them, you can keep things just the way they are.

That must be the half that already has Health Insurance. Again, it's the good ole boy's club, keep things the way they are,and to hell with the rest of the American people. If it does'nt affect me,than I don't care. That's the American Spirit we were raised on. You know what other countries say about our health care system, it works great, if your Healthy or Wealthy!

It means people are afraid that the government won't provide them with insurance that is equal to what they have now. What's the old saying, "A bird in the hand is better than two in the bush." I think the healthcare problem is something that needs to be approached in increments. Focus on the ecomony first. If it crashes then no one will have insurance!

it means that half of those surveyed don't care about their fellow man. They have coverage and can get care when they need it and so what do they have to worry about. They don't understand that those without coverage no other other choice but to go to the ER for basic things. Then those of us with coverage have to pay $10 for an asprin when we have to go to the ER. We already have socialized medicine, it is just not spread evenly. So let's make it work better.

It means that half of us are too sick and tired of complaining.

people are always hesitant to try something new. We know we don't like the current state of our health care system, but then again the media and lobbyists have pumped so many negative ideas into the masses about socialization, or something different that people are afraid to try it. Our health care system is BROKEN. It's time for something new.

It means we know the government has a very poor track record on its services. Social Security is going bankrupt. Medicare is going bankrupt. Wellfare is a joke. You need a CPA to properly do your taxes. We should be taking away power from the government, not giving it more.

It means they can stay with what they have, and the other half of us can choose another option. I want what the Senators have for my family, not the employer plan that gets changed every year at our expense. I want stability, reliability, consistency, honesty and equality. The other half of the country can remain where they are. They are obviously better insured than the rest of us, or financially able to handle the premiums and the ever increasing deductibles. My family will be happy to be the guinee pigs of the new "socialized medical plan"....

american health care system is great if your employer pays for it

I'd love to know where these polls come from! Everyone I know, who isn't working for a large corperation, the government, the state, or any other good business that is providing excellant health care, thinks health care stinks! Of course these people are also working, but retirees are STUCK! We flip from one plan to another trying to get the best coverage for either a doctor's care or perscriptions. Our income doesn't change! We have to get jobs as supermarket baggers, or any other minimum wage job out there to suppliment the flat rate of our pension, if we're lucky enough to have one. OK. Social Security went up.............$5!!!!!! Whoopee! Can't get a bottle of aspirin with that!!!

It means that half of americans are either republicans or not paying attention... or both

I am a nurse x 24 yrs. I can tell you state of health care has declined in this country...there are so many people without health care coverage sometimes it feels like a am in a third world country. It must change...there is something wrong about the fact that health insurance companies are a stock on Wall Street...

It's the devil you know versus fear of the unknown. They also vote for their incumbent congressman.

Jack, it just means that as with our current economic crisis, we Americans are content on letting our problems go uncorrected
to the point of failure before we begin to act. Maybe when only 10%
of us have healthcare we will do something about it.

That would be fine to leave it as is for most. But, if you are like me and have a pre- existing condition, making healthcare obtainable for people like me would be a great relief for me. If I get laid off from work I could go elsewhere and get insurance without worrying if I can be insured or worried about the high cost of Cobra health care. So in that sense I would welcome Obama's healthcare plan.

It means HALF of the people in America are afraid of CHANGE!

That they cannot yet comprehend the fact that one serious illness could ruin them financially. Let most of them lose their medical coverage and see how quickly they change their stance.

Jack
As a Canadian I love my free health care, but I also accept the fact that 50% of my middle class pay cheque goes to the tax man. I don't recall any of the parties in our recent election offering much of a tax cut to anyone, as anyone who leaves in any country with a strong social safety net will tell you that you can't have low taxes and free healthcare. Many Americans want to keep what they earn and don't think that they should pay for everyone else. This is still the American Way until you have a genuine debate on what your nation's values actually are.

my wife had kidney transplant in 1990 and one in 2008 we live in canada if we lived in usa she would not be eligible for health care

I am employed and have good healthcare coverage from my employer. However, I am keenly aware that if I lost my job (something that has become a trend in the US lately), that coverage is gone unless I pay for COBRA.

At a minimum, we should cover every child under 18. Unlike adults, they have no choice in the matter and shouldn't suffer from a poor system or their parent's reluctance to pay for coverage.

Leave health care as is?

Let's leave Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran, Palestine as is.
Let's leave the economy as is.
Let's leave the government as is.
Damn, might as well leave Bush and Cheney in office.

If that's the consensus, the other half of us might as well just leave and find a place where all citizens believe in innovation and improvement.

Jack, I am in a good situation where my healthcare is provided by my company and it is a really nice benefit. But, unlike the 50 percent polled, I have seen the other side and know healthcare insurance in this country is completely out of whack. Our Constitution talks about “providing for the common welfare” and it is time we ensure our citizens receive basic healthcare coverage as a right, not a privilege of the few.

Jack:
Good question! Does it mean about "half" the population has good health care?
Scott
San Diego

it simply means that half are satisfied with their health care and half do not have any health coverage.

Jack, it means that half has good health, period. If they'd been unhealthy and had to deal with the health care system we currently have, they'd know it is broken. This doesn't even begin to address the growing number of Americans who have no health care. It's a growing crisis in this country and fixing the health care system needs to be one of the things on top of President-elect Obama's To-Do list.

You must be kidding? I do not yet qualify for Medicare and have a private medical insurance that has a $5000 deductible. I was rejected for insurance by 3 other insurers because of pre-existing conditions. I was born with a heart problem and am a cancer survivor. My current insurer has even excluded anything that has to do with my bones because I have osteoporosis, a condition that many older women have. My premiums are high and I essentially pay for all medical expenses up to $5000.00 and 80% of anything over that. This year my expenses have almost reached the deductible limit. I actually will be thrilled to turn 65!

Jack It is clear to me that people who already have insurance are scared to death that the United States Government will get involved in their Health care and screw it up like each and everything else the Government has ever touched.

I have said the following over 100 times in emails to your show. No politician will ever do anything for you cheaper or better then you can do it for yourself. Ever.

It means one half of America was left behind in education by George Bush.

For one thing, Jack, it means they have health care insurance. It probably also means that it is paid for or subsidized by their employer. Have you ever checked out the COBRA rates for insurance if you were to get laid off? The choice would become "do I want to continue my family's health insurance coverage, or do I want to feed my family on this unemployment check? For most, you can't do both. Also, have you ever noticed on your hospital bill that the charges have a base rate and the insurance company's negotiated rate, which is about 25% of base. Guess which one you get if you don't have insurance. The uninsured and least able to pay are billed four fold what the insurance companies are charged. Why is that? Why can't a politician mention it? This all just makes me sick- good thing I've employer provided health insurance.

Jack The reason for me to leave health care alone is because my neighbor and good friend is a French Canadian by birth who immigrated to this country, legally I might add tells horror stories about the national health care system in Canada. One sided and biased, maybe. Jim, Bangor, Pa

It means that 51% of those surveyed can't comprehend a world in which pharmecutical companies purchase politicians, purchase stock in media companies, and see the United States as the treasure trove for profits preciesly 'cause our system is so broken it can be milked for all it is worth. Sadly this world is reality.

It means that the Drug companies and Insurance Companies are very good at rumor mongering. I find it amazing that I could buy one of the latest and greatest Antibiotics in Ireland for $9.00 that would have cost me $120. Here. Something is rotten in the US and it's not our garbage.

Jack

I would like to see the cost of health care more affordable. Which means disband the insurance companies with new legislation banning corporate piratecy. Pass legislation ending punative damages. Regulate the drug companies

Jack, Here is what it means. The half that reportedly wants to keep the current healthcare insurance system is the half that can afford it ,already have or are subsidized by an employer or government plan and probably does not have a "preexisting condition" that disqualifies them from coverage. What a wonderful, generouis and compasionate half that is. For Profit Healthcare takes care of about half the population. The rest can go ahead and die. Who Cares?

Jack,

Most likely that is the half that has government sponsored insurance. The important question is how does the other 50% feel.

it just means that 1/2 of the people in the US buy into the hype of the Republican Party. Clinton's and Obama's plan IS NOT government run health care. The program would be run by larger Insurance Companies. Large Companies equals numbers of clients equals lower costs that can be passed on to everyone.

It means that 50% of the people have no idea what Obama's health care plan is about and are just plain scared that they will have to wait in line at a public clinic to see a doctor they have never seen or heard of. They are also scared that their taxes will go up to pay for those that currently don't have insurance.

Fifty percent approval may seem like a reason to keep health care the way it is to some, but if you think of it as fifty percent not surviving a life threatening scenario because of the current state of health care, I think the current system is put into better perspective.

It means those who have health insurance either like what they have or are too afraid that something new may be worse. For those with no health insurance, anything is better than nothing.

Socialized medicine is another Liberal fantasy that would plunge America deeper into bankruptcy. Why on earth would you people want the same government who has mismanaged Social Security and the Wall-Street bailout to be overseeing the health care industry. Wake up America!

those are the people who have health care, they don't care about anyone else, most of the young people don't worry about being sick, till it happens and lose everything

Maybe they have nothing to compare it to. After all, we seem to be in about 91st place among countries providing health care to their citizens. Here, it's make as much money as you can and charge as much as you can get away with. But then, that doesn't explain why so many think it's okay here. Maybe there's a continental-size brain cloud over us.

I agree with those posting that said "it means that 'half' has good insurance' and can't relate to those 47 million Americans that have no insurance. Worse part, those that have insurance don't want to 'relate' to the uninsured Americans. I am always amazed at how many 'working' people have no sympathy for those not working. Their comment is 'go find a job'! Easier said than done. I hope those same people are told that to their face when they lose their job.

If that is the case the ones who want to leave things as is are the ones who already have insurance. And it must be pretty good coverage.

Healdsburg, CA

It means we who have health care are afraid of losing the quality of the care we currently have. Since the 'new' health care system is still not definined, trading what you have for something not defined is regarded as a risk we don't want to take. Once any new health care plans are defined look for the numbers in the polls regarding it to change.....either rallying to it, or abhoring it completely. Either way, not everyone will be pleased.

It means people are still afraid of the word social and health care.

Leaving health care in the hands of total government means that they
can control other aspects of our lives. I will never forget the movie
Soylent Green, when the government controlled the end of life issue.
In this economy the shortage of food may well become a reality.

Jack, I don't want it to be discovered like Charlton Heston did that
"soylent green is people".

People are not exactly satisfied with what they have. They are probably afraid that anything new will bring higher deductables ,higher premiums and less coverage.

It means that is the republican half of Americans.

Jack, it means that at least half of the American people have never had a serious medical problem that costs them their savings, their homes, not counting their dignity. If they did have these issues they'd be screaming bloody murder for socialized medicine.

Jack,

It probably means that the current system is working relatively well for half the people. I'd say that's pretty bad for such a basic need. It would be like only half the people saying we were satisfied with the food or the electricity that we get.

This is a trick question, right? It means that half the country enjoys the affluence and the privilege of health care coverage similar to what our representatives in Washington enjoy. It points to the fact that our goal should be that 100% of Americans enjoy the same privilege.

The half that currently have health insurance are well aware there is already a shortage of primary care physicians. The sudden addition of millions of new patients would swamp the system, resulting in poor quality care for everyone. Universal health coverage must be implemented gradually and syncronized with programs to increase the number of physicians, clinics, and hospitals.

People are afraid of change especially where government involvement is concerned. Everyone who is without health insurance would love to see a change.

Jack, it simply means that half the country doesn't give a damn about the other half.

Forty seven percent of the population voted for Sarah Palin. That alone should answer your question.

I think most people want good health care at a reasonable cost. Our system seems to be working well for those Americans who are employed and get good health benefits from their employer. For others, our system isn't working so well, nor is socialized health care in other countries. I'm not familiar with the health plan offered to senators, but if it is as good as Obama says it is, those who need it should have the opportunity to get it while the half of all Americans who are happy with what they have should keep it.

It means that they are upper tird income and have great health care plans.

Those are the republicans that actually have insurance.

First of all I don't really believe half want to leave our health care as is. Who are these people the ultra rich?

I for one have full health care and wish the same for all Americans.

The rest of the world is ahead of us on health care and has longer life expectancy.

Hmnnnnn .....I wonder why?

Very simple. They somehow feel immune to loosing their current employment based health coverage and have bought in to the Republican generated myth that any alternative is "socialized medicine" to be paid for in higher taxes.

It is actually more "socialist" than anything to expect companies to pay for their employee's health – that is non productive and anti competitive.

Health care is a right and should be managed by government not individual companies.

It means that they have money and can afford giving a doctor $100 on each appointment, something that my mother and brother have to scrap up and do for me every one to three months depending on my health. And I still have a $400 balance.

If these folk were to be paired with folk like me who have less than them and can see the world through our eyes, the uninsured and the jobless, maybe they'd get the fact that health care is a right, not a privilege. People don't ask to be sick or broke or both. It's life and it happens. And it just could happen to them.

It means half of Americans are Republicans. Liberal Democrats will always vote to help a buddy out. Republicans won't go for anything that may...god forbid...raise their taxes, even if it means their friends and neighbors can't go to the doctor if they get sick.

The half who are satisfied are those who have been provided with high quality health care at a low or manageable cost to them. Why should they want, or need, a change. It's those without access to reasonable health care that need a change in the health care system.

What does it mean when almost half of Americans want to leave the health care system as it is?

It means that almost half of Americans currently have health care benefits and aren't concerned about the half that doesn't. As more people lose their jobs and the accompanying benefits more people will want health care reform. Sadly, self-interest wins every time.

All it means that the half you are talking about already have health insurance.

It means that half of Americans have decent health care or are just generally healthy. Lets see how they feel when they get laid off or their employer can't afford to provide insurance for them anymore.

Jack,

It means that 50% of Americans want health care in this country changed!!
I retired in 2005. My health care premiums have gone up 260% since I retired. But at least I have coverage for my family. I know too many people who have none or have health care that is terribly inadequate.
Health care is part of this country's economic recovery. It's too bad that so many don't understand that.

Rich Green
San Clemente, Cal.

Jack – Thats baloney. That half must be the younger half that dosent understand the impact of healthcare on older people. Imagine that no insurance company for example will cover the cost of Hearing Aids. Hearing Aids for godsakes. Healthcare needs an overhaul and some common sense needs to be part of it.

It means that half have not been screwed by the system yet. Just because the current health care system works for you don't think that it works for everyone else. There is nothing wrong with wanting to improve things and working towards that improvment.

It means that only half of all Americans have decent heathcare today. The other half supports a change because they don't have it, or they can't afford it, or they have poor coverage. That statistic will change drastically as more people lose jobs in 2009!

It means that these Americans need to see a Psychiatrist...immediately! They're clearly insane.

It means that almost half of Americans are in the Health Care Business and they could care less about the rest of us.

It means the rest haven't spoken yet- wait until Jan 21st, 2009.

It means that the half of americans against the healthcare, have never gone without it, probably republican as well. I was a single mother for 16 years and often went without other necessities in order to afford the ridiculously expensive health insurance offered at my place of employment. I feel that all people are entitled to the basic needs of life, and health is one of them!

Jack, the half of the country that wants to keep things the same is part of the "I got mine" mentality. They have their benefits right now through their employer-or spouse's employer -and can't imagine losing them. Perhaps they should take a peek at the massive layoffs that are occuring daily in this country; it can happen to anyone at anytime. One of the largest reasons we have such a tremendous debt in this country is our broken healthcare system. I work in healthcare, I would know. It is so important to the future of this country to fix our healthcare system, for economic reasons and because it is the HUMANE thing to do.

My deductible is so expensive, I hope if I get really sick, I die, because I don't want to face bancruptcy because of health care expenses!

The half who want the status quo obviously have health care. I do, but think it should be available for all. There are many other countries who have care available. In 1985 I left an Italian hospital with my hand in a cast, it cost me $27 U.S. I did have to pay cash.

It means that they have obviously not lived in England or Canada and had their health care rationed. I would rather have access to a doctor even though it is expensive than having the government telling me which doctor I can see and when I can see him!

Jack,

It means that almost half have been brainwashed into believing that the current health system, bad as it is, is the best we can do.

Jim
Reno, Nevada

It means that half of the people in this country have jobs and feel secure about their health care. It means they are greedy and insensitive to those who don't have the same blessings. We are the richest country on Earth so there is no reason our tax dollars shouldn't be going toward good health care. If Germany and Canada can afford to do it then so can we . And we should!

Because, you don`t know how bad you need food, until you go hungry for a while. These people obviously don`t care about the`re neighbors.

It means,I think,that most of us are really "health insured", or we are just afraid to stand up to the insurance companies, or we can not find someone who will stand in our corner to the big money grabbing companies. Instead of helping the public ,they are helping themselves to the public. And, this just might be the tip of the iceburg.

It means that the sheep called the american public have completely swallowed the propaganda put out by the health care monopoly. Our health and lives mean nothing. Money is all that matters.

that just means half of Americans are very bright. actually, i would argue more than half...

hi jack
it means that half of americans want change for our health care system or can you count.no matter how you slice it the more job lose the more we pay for emergencey room visits.
clearwater,fl

This really should bring up the subject of haves and have nots. I'd bet those that "have not" a health insurance plan would like one and I'm sure they'll need it. I'm happy for those who have health insurance, but I wouldn't be surprised that those with the "haves" are the half who don't want the other half to "have."
I'd "like to see how the other half lives."

It is time we start spending our tax dollars wisely. Not on subsidizing big oil, tax breaks for the rich, or other such wasteful ventures. Health care should be at the top of the list. The fact that' it isn't doesn't surprise me though. After -all it is America. Home of the greedy, land of the imprisoned.

I would suspect that it is made up of two large groups.

1. Seniors that recieve Medicare paid for by current tax receipts from working Americans.
2. Employees of Corporate or Government sponsored plans that receive a very large untaxed benefit.

So you see – these two groups already have government sponsered Health Care. If those of us who pay our own premiums were allowed to deduct 100% of the expense from our taxes, then perhaps that 50% satisfaction rate may be much higher.

Hey as far as I am concerned my health care situation is fine but that does not mean that we should not correct the situation so that all Americans can receive health care. Perhaps if we went to Europe and checked over some of theiri ideas we could come up with something. They are certainly ahead of us on the curve on this one.

The half that want healthcare as it is are the half who still have healthcare that works. Wait until they lose their job and can't pay the COBRA payments from their unemployment check. Then a change in healthcare will become a priority. When you don't have insurance, one trip to the doctor can mean the difference between food and heat for a month. Don't think your $30.00 co-pay is what it costs to see a doctor these days. Most people have no idea what a doctor's visit cost. God help you if you have a stay in the hospital without insurance. You could lose everything. It's a scary place to be with no healthcare.

It means half of americans have never been seriously ill. I used to be on their side. Then, my husband was diagnosed with cancer. A life savings and our youngest son's college fund later, I am for national health care.

The half that have good health care are fine. The other half that don't are bleeding our hospitals dry.

Hey Jack,
It just means they're SELFISH people, & don't care about fellow Americans who are doing without!!!!

Margie
Queen Creek, Az.

Jack, our troops, Senators, and Representatives all get government care. I guess 50% of Americans don’t want the “socialized medicine” that saved John McCain or Ted Kennedy.

Nothing. Half of Americans have an I.Q. below 100 also.

Ray Kinserlow
Lubbock, Texas

It means they already have health insurance and/or they've been brainwashed into believing the Conservative lie that universal health care will turn us all into socialists. Or maybe they think it's OK for hard-working Americans to lose their homes just because someone in the family gets sick.

It means that one has only to look at the VA Hospitals to see what government-run healthcare will look like. The big rub is that if you ever refuse just once to accept the proposed treatment from VA you can NEVER go to the VA again. That's not healthcare, that's cost-cutting at its worst.

My father worked for a company that built a hospital, staffed it and ran it on small deductions from employees' paychecks and their employees received a good health care. An American employer who can operate a hospital alone should try it. Companies for whom running hospitals is unfeasible could form a league with other small employers and provide workers and their families the kind of health care my father and his fellow workers got.
Ihek, NY

It means that the misinformation being generated to scare the public is working quite well.

Allen
Mountain Home ID

Sounds like more than half are not satisfied, and why should they be? Shouldn't all Americans be entitled to the free, quality care their elected officials in Washington get; or are we supposed to have a ruling elite class?

Who are these Americans and can I have the same health plan? If I should land in the hospital I've got to come up with $5,000 before my insurance starts to cover anything. I have a yearly deductible of $250 on my prescriptions and my copays outrageous. My premium is low, but only because of the crappy plan. No, this American doesn't want health care to stay as is. She wants an overhaul, starting with the plans and coverages these carriers offer. They make plenty of money, they can afford to pay out and cover more!

The half that think health care is fine must be on medicare and or medicaid. I have company insurance that costs me over $3,000 a year and the coverage is so poor that I never use it. Give me free coverage like they have and I'll jump on the band wagon with them.

Then let them keep it until they loose their job too and have NO health care!!!

It means half the people don't give a RIP about anyone but themselfs. And can afford to pay $25 for an aspirn they didn't recieve.

It means that there is still a healthy number of Americans that like to work hard for what they have! Also we enjoy having the best quality medical care in the world! Not everyone wants a hand out Jack!

Apparently these folks that like it as it is have not had the experience of a major illness or injury. Once you see the overinflated costs in the medical business, and go through the experience of losing every thing because of the bills not covered by even "good" insurance, you will have a different viewpoint.

no way , i had the best care of my life when i lived outside the usa !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

If half of Americans are happy with their health care system, it is because they get good health care benefits with their job. Did the survey ask if they felt all Americans are happy with their health care?

it means maybe 1/2 the people polled (I wasn't one of them so how do you know?) may be wealthy enough to get cheap employer based healthcare and 1/2 the people are healthy...just wait until THEY have a heart attack then lose a job and try to get insurance again.

The study means NOTHING

This half of the population are clearly the people who receive health care benefits for free from their jobs. The other half that either pays exorbitant prices for coverage or go without (I go without) would very much like a change in health care coverage.

It means the wizard of oz is alive and well.

Americans are afraid of change, they always have been and always will be. Changing the current health insurance industry would benefit everyone if it is done correctly. If the industry continues the way it is going those 1/2 of insured Americans will change their tune in a few years when their current insurance costs so much they cannot afford it or they are dropped by their employers.

It means they are the half who haven't had a chronic or catastrophic illness. Those who have know that our system is almost as bad as the diseases. We need to throw out nearly the whole dang thing–it guarantees huge amounts of money to certain doctors and executives and leaves many of us without care. A simple pulled muscle in my back, with no tests, no bloodwork, cost over $600 because to get prescriptions, I had to go to an ER. Less than 10 minutes of any attention. Prettly fancy wages, Jack.

It means that half the country - like me - is mostly happy with their healthcare coverage.

Does that mean we don't care about our fellow man? NO.
It means we don't trust the government to effectively administer healthcare. If you don't get why, just take a look at its track record on social welfare and entitlement programs.

It means that half the people are fortunate to have health care and the other half don't have it. What ever happen to "I am my brother's keeper." I guess that those who have don't care about those who don't.

Who ever is conducting these polls should be ashamed of themselves. Have they actually asked people or are they just guessing? If you walk the streets city to city and town to town you will see and hear problems. I got an idea how about video polls to show what people think. Ask 10 people about the healthcare coverage and I bet you will get 7 out of 10 for better healthcare.

It means that half of the people have good health insurance and don't care about the problems that those without such coverage face. It's the "I've got mine" mindset.

The goverment would have to show me they know what they are doing for a change so be safe leave it alone.
Dingmans Ferry Pa

I'd like to clear up one thing for a few people. We do not have health insurance, and yet I haven't seen an emergency room in probably 40 years. When we have a need for health care, we PAY for it. When we need prescriptions, we PAY for them. Not everyone without insurance is a drag on the rest! In fact we pay more than the insurance companies - although we are billed "the same," they pay only a fraction of the amount, and we have to pay it all.

It means that just a little over half of the American people have a good job with good health care. That alone is an indictment of our horrible economy and health care crisis under Republican rule. The fact is that we spend more than any country in the world on health care and still not everyone gets affordable health care like every other industrialized nation on earth.

Oh you must be referring to the wealthy half of Americans that George Bush has pampered over the past eight years. Of course they don't want to alternate the way things are going for them.
As for the others that aren't rich and still ask for no fundamental change, you must remember we live in America. This is the same country that sends their men and women to war and offer little assistance when they return, the same country where you can sue a corporation because you foolishly dropped an obviously hot cup of coffee on your lap, and the SAME country that despite ailing gas prices and energy concern, still can't seem to focus on alternative energy.

What does it mean when almost half of Americans want to leave the health care system as it is?

Are Federal Employees, State Employees, Local Government Employees, Unionized Teachers, Unionized Trades, and Veterans included in the survey? They don't have much interest in changing what works for them, and costs them nothing.

It's the 47 million and growing numbers of uninsured, and under insured that want and need the change.

So 47 million of 300 million are uninsured and under insured (about 6.5%), but 51% feel the health care system needs fixing?

Maybe there is something wrong

Apparently those with good health care don't realize that they're already paying for those without insurance! They're paying top dollar at the emergency rooms, because people can't afford to go to a doctor until they're in bad shape!! It's a shame that any civlized country could do that to it's citizens. People have to bankrupt themselves just to get medical care. What an advanced society we are!!!

It means that half of the country doesn't want to provide others health care through higher taxes because they are having a very difficult time paying for their own. 35% don't want to pay for their own and 15% don't care because they can go to the emergency room at any hospital in the nation and receive treatment free. Who will bailout the hospitals? The taxpayers...get ready for taxes on income of $40,000 and above.

It means that they already have health care and don't care about the less fortunate. SAD!

DJ – Detroit

It means Jack, that these are healthy people now with Jobs and as soon as their jobs are taken away and their so call good health care goes with it, they will become the ones who want universal health care real bad??

Their time is coming soon , what goes around comes around !

It means that half of Americans would like to see a different health care system...which half do you think already has health care?

DJ – Detroit

If they were paying attention to the President-elect proposed health care plan, anyone who is happy with their health care plan can keep it...if 57% of the people are satisfied, that's good. That way, we can focus on the 43% who have infoerior coverage or no coverage at all.

DJ – Detroit

Half of all Americans are afraid of a government run Healthcare System, because they KNOW there hasn't been one program, EVER, in our history as a nation, that has ever been successful and on budget. Plus, as with everything else about Senator Obama, we don't know what the plan entails, what the pros and cons will be, what we will ultimately have to pay, we just don't have the answers........and shame on us as voters, that we NEVER asked those questions before casting our vote. Next time ask hard questions on the issues instead of being worried about looking like a racist, trying to be part of the history, and worrying about his next dog. BTW, how does a bankrupt nation pay for this Healthcare anyways? China is NOT going to lend us any more money, and do we really want to continue to borrow? At some point, we all have to stop asking for new programs, new entitlements, and a new welfare nation.

Isn't that about the same nmber of people who still have jobs?

DJ – Detroit

They must have been polling Doctors.

DJ – Detroit

It means that they are still employed with benefits. The other half of America is without health care and suffering. Apparently those who have it, do not care that the rest of us do not.

Honestly, as a German American, I can say that I could not afford to pay 130$ for a doctor's visit since I had no health insurance, when I lived in Florida. Now I live in Germany, and since I am poor, I have to pay only 10euros every three months to see my doc as many times as I want. If Americans are willing to keep that poor health care system, please do! If not reconsider, seriously!

It means some people want to give "living forever" the old college try and leave the rest of us with the bill; and the rest of us just want to feel a little bit better and can't afford to.

Jack, it is plain and simple. Those folks who want the status quo, just don't really know.
Without health care I would be bankrupt right now. The health care system here in this country has paid for my colon cancer surgery, chemo therapy, back surgery, treatment for an enlarged prostate, CT, MRI scans related to the above surgeries, blood work, ultra sound, etc, etc, everything has been first class all the way. yes there are always issues, and yes I have waited in a "waiting room" longer than I would like, but I wouldn't trade what we have here for what you have in the States!

Obviously, those are the half of the population that have health care, and more than likely, it is employer sponsored. Those without health care probably don't have it due to it's excessive costs. I find it hard to believe that Obama wants to simply GIVE health care to those without. Instead, it is more reasonable to believe that he wants to institute some form of government regulation on the insurance companies to get cost down, and hence, make it more achievable for EVERYONE to afford.
Jeff,
Ashburnham, Massachusetts

It means their stupid. I'm 90% disabled from Vietnam and I wish I could buy heath care but they well not sell it to me. I get to see a poorly qualified doctor at the VA each year, get a physical, and am told we do not want to see you if you get sick over the next year, go to an ER. Ralph, Yakima, Wa.

Hi, Jack!
It means that half of all Americans have no idea how shaky the legs are under their healthcare policies. The price of healthcare just keeps going up and the money to pay for it just flat isn't there.

I don't think they have a clue, Jack. Americans seem to be very slow to change and even slower to want change. They are the epitome of conservative, despite the fact that many believe that they believe in change. We live in a very extremistly conservative society that wants nothing to be any different than it was. Why else do we have two political parties that are practically carbon copies of each other. They don't want to assist anything or anyone, but will scream when they end up in a recession or depression and claim that the politicialn are asleep at the wheel, when they are doing what the masses want. We need a deep, lasting and devastating depression to wake up Americans.

I prefer my own healthcare and am on Medicare which I have paid for all my working life. I have to buy supplemental insurance along with a supplemental drug plan, which the government makes us have and it stinks. I am on a fixed income now being retired, and it costs me plenty to pay for the supplement and drug plan.

It means Americans are still as dumb as ever.

It means that 57% have decent medical coverage through an employer, Medicare or Medicaid. No one wants to take away their coverage and I am one who is covered. I think all the people working hard in America should have coverage also. They just can't
afford it. It is a shame.

Allen
Monticello, KY

It means you're polling the wrong people.

-Tory
New York, NY

It means they're idiots and makes me sick.

Jack, perhaps the same 49% that like the system now, voted for McCain. By the way, what healthcare can the 40 mil without count on?

It means that 50% of American obviously have the healthcare they need or want. It very simply means....fix it for the remaining 50%. This isn't rocket science.

My health care is acceptable, there are many parts I would change if I could, particularly the ridiculous prescription coverage by the same company providing prescription coverage for GM workers. But as bad as it is, I don't know if I'd switch to a government policy as every government attempt to provide health care is a hassle for the insured, a joke of what is covered and who accepts it and corrupted by the lobbyists of the insurance companies, HMOs and big pharma.

I think it means that people may not understand what changes the President-Elect has in mind. During the campaign period there were a lot of rumors and confusion. People have a tendency to want to keep what they have although it may not meet their needs because they fear the unkown.

What it says is, "I got mine why should I care about you".

If half of all Americans want to leave our healthcare system as it is, they say that because they have no personal experience with it... They do not work in it, have not been admitted it to for a significant illness or... they live far above it... say perhaps a CEO for a large corporation...?

The 49% that want health care left alone, probably have health care provided by their employer. Maybe paying only 50% of the cost, some are paying nothing, for their entire family. These are the greedy ones, only thinking about themselves. I doubt whether the poll actually polled the people with no health care. I sell health care, and I know it needs to be reformed. The big agents in this state are shaking in the shoes, thinking that their incomes will be taken away because national health care has started. I say let'um shake, and help the other 40 percent or so, that you didn't call for the poll.

It means that a significant percentage of people have been swayed by the fear-mongering used by politicians and the corporations that profit from denying care to people who desperately need it. A change in the system would mean a huge financial blow to these companies, so they have invested lots of money to make sure that Americans are afraid of considering a change.

It means that at least 57% of people are basically healthy and have not had an overnight (or longer) hospital stay.

My last employer's health care coverage was considered good yet a co-worker had to pay over $6,000 for his wife's two night stay in the hospital, emergency room fees, and medical tests.

Surely these figures do not surprise anyone. A great many of us have great healthcare available to us. However, if any of us do not have this good fortune, it is incumbant on the rest of us to insure that some system which is comprehensive and affordable is availed to them

William A. Killian

Anyone who is happy with the current system hasn't experienced it: the loops insurance will jump through to get out of paying, the fear and desperation of your life being in the hands of a cold corporation that doesn't care one cent about you, just wants to collect your money. It's sick. It is morally wrong that people die and suffer because they can't afford health care. I believe it's a human right. It's not socialism, either. If it's socialism to have the government take on healt hcare, then America's public schools are socialist, too.

How well off you are cannot decide whether you live or die any longer. I trust that Obama will know this.

It is so typical for the "haves" not to acknowledge the "have nots". Out of sight out of mind... "ain't that America". I guess it will literaly take people dying in the streets for people to notice. By the way i've asked a Canadian about their healthcare and they love it.

Jack there are two obvious reasons. If 47 Million Americans say leave it alone then 250 million want it changed. . Second no one wants the government to run our health care. If that happens think of the number of people that will die in the emergency rooms waiting for someone to call their number.

Polls, polls, polls, at 44 yrs of age: I've never been asked to partake in a poll. What half are you referring to? The half is still working?

Its simple, Jack. The half that don't want to change the system have adequate coverage. They don't care all that much about the half that don't. Changes, after all, could affect either their own coverage or their taxes. What a shame; were is America's heart? James Riley, MD

Wait until there's a major outbreak of a deadly, contagious disease like bird flu. Many who are happy with their own care will realize that having 47 million uninsured as prospective carriers who may infect them because those people went untreated wasn't such a good idea.

Most people don't realize how bad their health insurance is until it is too late.

Jack, It means the same thing as a crowd of people in a sinking boat, half of whom who can't swim. Even if the boat is only 20 yards from dry land and safety only the swimmers will leave the boat, the rest will remain where they are, hoping for the best, all the time agonizing until the last wave comes and covers their heads.

Laurent Iadeluca
Hudson N.Y.

The half of Americans that are happy with their healthcare haven`t had to use it. If they needed to use it they would hate it. Believe me,then they would want healthcare in U.S. changed.
dave,
Bridgeton,NJ

All I can imagine is bad sampling. Maybe too many respodants were union or government workers that will have good coverage most of the time. The people that I know that do not have insurance want and need a change badly.

Keller TX

It means that the 50% represent the working class without access to healthcare, believe the conservative propaganda, fear that the current broken system will only become worse, or believe the healthcare system for the poor is substandard.

Of course half of Americans are alright with health care, it's only fifteen percent of us that don't have it. This is simply the American way of looking out for number one.

1. these people are young, healthy and not needing health care;
2. they earn enough money not to worry about the cost of health; and
3. they have not seen the documentary, "Sicko."
When I hear of the medical programs in Canada, France and Great Britian, I am ashame of my country.

Half of the American people may want to keep our current healthcare, but more often that not these are the ones that can afford high quality care. What about all of the rest those 150 million other people that want a goverment run program? They cannot be forgotten about. President- elect Obama has his work cut out for him.

Jack, Jack,Jack,
The answer is obvious; the 49% are those individuals who have decent employer-subsidized health insurance. People aren’t unhappy with the health care they receive; in general the U.S. has the best health care in the world. The problem is that there are so many U.S. taxpayers and citizens that do not have access to it!

Why don't we look at it the other way and realize that over half of Americans are seeking a change in the system? As for those who want it left alone – they probably have health insurance. Were they without access to healthcare, they might just be looking for a change to the system.

Quite simply it means they have good health insurance and they don't pay for it nor do they know how much it costs.

Randi Jeddis
Sussex, NJ

You can bet that 50% who believe the system is fine have insurance. Through no fault of my own I lost my insurance. I'm 60 years old and have had no insurance for 10 years. I can't get the yearly exams women need. The disease I have causes unbelievable pain each and every day. I can't afford the Dr. bills or the medication they would prescribe. It's a sad ending to my life, I never believed I'd be in this situation. I worked hard all of my life and this is my reward. Shame on those who think the system doesn't need fixed.

I think your'e seeing a combination of people who can afford it and people who don't, or think they don't, need it. If your'e in your twenties or thirties, you probably don't worry about your health care, since most of us at that age are relatively healthy. It isn't till your'e in your forties or fifties that medical problems start raising their ugly heads.

The healath care system is broken. People do not have a choice about their doctor. Managed care has displaced the profit to the HMO and not the one providing the care. The emphasis is on terminal care and not on prevention or alternaive care which would be a huge savings. We have to decide is health care a benefit for all americans or a for profit entity. I choose a benefit for all.

Jack,

Everyone needs to read President elect Obama's healthcare plan. It's very simply. If you have a plan that you like, you can keep it. But, he will lower your yearly cost. If you don't have insurance you can buy into the same plan that Congress has and pre-existing condition will not be a concern.. Health care in this country on the open market is not affordable for the normal "JOE". Also, lets not talk about COBRA's cost with everyone losing their jobs.

Thanks.

Well Jack, it means that half of Americans forgot that the government is of the people and by the people. If more Americans could remember that they are the government, then they wouldn't be so afraid to invest their hard earned money in health care.

I think those that want to leave health care as it is do no fully understand the problems in the system and how it effects so much of the problems our country faces. Although I am an advocate for universal health care, there needs to be reform on all levels for it to work. Greed and health should never go together, maybe our pharmaceutical companies and others making money of others illness need to be reminded of that and the US citizens need to hold them accountable...

Sheen, AZ

Because more than half of Americans don't know someone who doesn't have health care and they don't see how others have to suffer. If they do know someone who suffers without healthcare, then they are worried that any change might decrease their own health benefits. They are probably afraid or selfish.

Tim
Cleveland, Ohio

Three-fifths of the insured are are happy with the health care system the way it is? How lovely it must be to even be able to afford health insurance in times like these. I work for a small business, and they can't even afford to offer me health care.

Perhaps a socialist health care system isn't the answer, but we are in desperate need of some sort of reform. Lord only knows it's a matter of time before I slip on the ice and hurt my back, and how am I supposed to pay for the medical bills if my back's hurt and I can't work?

So here's hoping the Obamanation can come up with something. The health of millions depend on it.

Dave D.
Marquette, MI

How the question was phrased may have influenced the publics response. Asking if people would prefer their current plan to a government run plan scares many people because they have been convinced by Republicans that any government run plan means single payer, without doctor choice. The president elect is not talking about single payer coverage that would mean folks would not be able to select their own physician. Perhaps, then ,you should clarify what government run program means when asking the question.

Hi Jack,

The answer is relatively simple. The majority that favor continuing the present system have good health care and don't want it changed. It is the uninsured that need health care which is not available to them. They are in the minority in this country. In this instanse the majority should not rule.

Nuff said

Frank

It means that at least 1/.2 of Americans have decent health care. I do. But my children going to college do not, as they are now over 22. Also, I don't think many Americans realize that we are the only country with a health care system that is treated as a commodity.
Insurance companies have to keep rates up to keep shareholders happy. Can you say oxymoron. A single payer plan is not socialzed medicine. It just means there are no shareholders that companies need to make money for. I have no broblem with a market economy, I just do not want decisions being made with shareholders in mind instead of my health.

That means more than half want to change it. Aaaah, democracy...

Health care is one of those issues that many people will complain about regardless of what the system is. If half already want to keep it how it is, then the amount with legitimate concerns is definitely acceptable.

If 49% of the people want heath care to remain the same as it is, I submit to you 49% are uninformed as to the ranking of U.S. health care in the world. I believes as it stands today, the U.S. health care stands at number 37. Furthermore, that leaves 51% of Americans who want change in our health care system, not to mention at least 47 million uninsured, and growing.

Jack it means that healthcare for all is not seen as a form of civil rights in America and it needs to be. If all of your citizens have access to proper free medical care the playing field levels in many regards for opportunity and prosperity. Universal healthcare was not won easily here in Canada either but the man who brought it to our country, Tommy Douglas, was voted the most important Canadian of all time just last year in a nationwide poll.

I guess they never try anything different.I lived in Europe for many years and I g.arranty that it is much less stressful to live there.You are covered no matter what and health care is excellent.Here they try to scare you with "socialized medicine' .It's not true.Care here is good,but costs are exaggerated.
Roby,
Ashburn ,Va

It must be that those people are getting most of their health benifits paid for. I am working for min. wage and I am paying 183.00 every two weeks. So i am almost working for nothing but I need the health care for my husband who has heart problems. If people don't want it or need it then let them opt out and help the ones who do. Sue,NY

It means there are too many people who really have no knowledge or faith that health care in this country can be better and that it can be better for everyone.

Or worse yet they think they have a better health coverage plan and fear sharing or giving health care to others because that will somehow diminish the value and quality of their coverage.

The answer is: NO our insurance is not what it needs to be. It needs a complete overhaul. And the Gov't. insurance isn't better. Perhaps the Senators, etc. have a better one. I'm not sure.